Authentic Cajun Red Beans And Rice Recipe
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Description
Cajun cuisine is known for its bold and spicy flavors, and this authentic red beans and rice recipe is no exception. This classic dish is a staple in Louisiana and is often served on Mondays as a way to use up leftover ham from Sunday dinner. The dish is made with red kidney beans, sausage, and a variety of spices, and served over fluffy white rice.Prep Time
The prep time for this recipe is around 10 minutes, plus soaking time for the beans.Cook Time
The cook time for this recipe is around 2 hours.Ingredients
- 1 pound red kidney beans
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 3 stalks celery, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 cups water
- Hot cooked white rice, for serving
Equipment
- Dutch oven or large pot
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
Method
- Soak the beans overnight in enough water to cover them by a few inches.
- Drain the beans and set aside.
- In a Dutch oven or large pot, sauté the sausage over medium heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
- Add the onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic and sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the bay leaves, thyme, oregano, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper and stir to combine.
- Add the drained beans and 8 cups of water to the pot and stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, partially covered, for about 2 hours or until the beans are tender and the mixture has thickened.
- Remove the bay leaves and discard.
- Using a wooden spoon, mash some of the beans against the side of the pot to thicken the mixture.
- Serve the red beans and sausage over hot cooked white rice.
Notes
This recipe can easily be made in a slow cooker. Simply sauté the sausage and vegetables as directed, then add them to a slow cooker along with the drained beans, spices, and water. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the beans are tender.Nutrition Info
This recipe makes 8 servings. Each serving contains approximately:- Calories: 375
- Protein: 21g
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 12g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 1088mg
Recipe Tips
- For a vegetarian version of this recipe, omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of water.
- For a spicier dish, increase the amount of cayenne pepper.
- If you don't have time to soak the beans overnight, you can use the quick soak method. Simply place the beans in a pot with enough water to cover them by a few inches, bring to a boil, then remove from heat and let sit for 1 hour. Drain and proceed with the recipe as directed.
- This recipe freezes well. Simply portion out the leftovers into individual containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
Enjoy this authentic Cajun red beans and rice recipe for a hearty and flavorful meal that will transport you to Louisiana. Bon appétit!
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