Red Beans and Rice Recipe

This red beans and rice recipe is a classic, hearty dish inspired by authentic New Orleans flavors. Made with tender beans, savory sausage, vegetables, and warm spices, it is ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or satisfying traditional comfort food cravings.

Ingredients

• 1 pound dry red kidney beans
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 6 cups water
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tablespoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon dried sage
• 1 pound andouille sausage, sliced
• 4 cups water
• 2 cups long-grain white rice

Directions

1. Rinse the beans thoroughly and soak them in a large pot of water overnight.
2. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic, and cook until softened and fragrant.
3. Drain the soaked beans and transfer them to a large pot with 6 cups of water. Add the cooked vegetables, bay leaves, parsley, thyme, Cajun seasoning, cayenne pepper, and sage.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 2 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally.
5. Stir in the sliced sausage and continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes, until the beans are tender and flavorful.
6. In a separate pot, bring 4 cups of water and the rice to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked.
7. Serve the red beans hot over the prepared rice.

Preparation Details

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 hours 5 minutes
• Additional Time: 8 hours (soaking)
• Total Time: 11 hours 30 minutes
• Servings: 8