Save Red Beans & Rice is a beloved Creole staple that warms the soul with every spoonful. This hearty dish combines tender red kidney beans simmered slowly with smoky sausage and fragrant vegetables, all served over fluffy white rice. Perfect for a comforting dinner, it embodies the spirit of Southern hospitality and rich, soulful flavors that are both satisfying and nourishing.
Save This recipe builds on traditional Southern cooking techniques, slow-cooking the beans to achieve a creamy yet hearty consistency. The combination of smoked sausage and optional ham hock infuses the beans with layers of savory depth, while the trio of vegetables adds freshness and balance. Serving it over steamed white rice creates the perfect base to soak up all those delicious juices.
Ingredients
- Beans & Protein: 1 pound (450 g) dried red kidney beans, rinsed and soaked overnight; 12 ounces (340 g) smoked sausage (e.g., andouille or kielbasa), sliced; 1 ham hock or 4 ounces (115 g) diced smoked ham (optional)
- Vegetables: 1 large yellow onion, diced; 1 green bell pepper, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 4 garlic cloves, minced
- Liquids: 6 cups (1.4 L) low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth; 2 cups (480 ml) water
- Seasonings: 2 bay leaves; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon salt (to taste); 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Rice: 3 cups (525 g) cooked long-grain white rice
- Garnishes (optional): Sliced green onions; Fresh parsley; Hot sauce
Instructions
- 1. Drain and rinse the soaked beans.
- Set aside.
- 2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat.
- Add the sausage and ham (if using) and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- 3. Add onion, bell pepper, and celery to the pot.
- Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- 4. Return the sausage (and ham/hock) to the pot.
- Add the soaked beans, broth, water, bay leaves, thyme, paprika, cayenne, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- 5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Cover partially and simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until beans are tender and creamy. Add more water if needed.
- 6. Remove the ham hock (if used), shred any meat, and return it to the pot.
- Discard bay leaves. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- 7. Serve hot over cooked rice.
- Garnish with green onions, parsley, and a splash of hot sauce if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Patience is key in this dish—the slow simmering allows the beans to develop their creamy texture and meld with the smoky sausage and spices. To enhance creaminess even further, mash some of the beans against the side of the pot before serving. Using a heavy pot like a Dutch oven helps maintain stable heat for even cooking.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a vegetarian or vegan twist, simply omit the sausage and ham, and boost the smoky flavor with extra smoked paprika and a dash of liquid smoke. This keeps the dish hearty and flavorful without any meat. Adjust the cayenne to your preferred spice level, and swap chicken broth for vegetable broth to keep it plant-based.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this Red Beans & Rice with classic Southern sides like cornbread or a simple green salad to balance the richness. Garnishing with fresh green onions, parsley, and a dash of hot sauce adds brightness and an extra kick that elevates every bite.
Save With its deep flavors and satisfying heartiness, Red Beans & Rice remains a timeless dish that celebrates Creole heritage and Southern cooking. It’s a reliable, delicious meal that brings people together around the table, making every serving a comfort and a celebration.
Recipe Questions
- → What type of sausage works best?
Smoked sausage like andouille or kielbasa gives the dish its signature depth and richness, but other varieties work as well.
- → Can this be made vegetarian?
Omit sausage and ham, increase smoked paprika, and add liquid smoke for a rich and satisfying plant-based version.
- → How do I achieve creamy beans?
Mash a handful of beans against the pot’s side as they cook; this thickens the mix and adds rich creaminess.
- → What sides pair well?
Cornbread offers a classic complement, while a simple green salad adds freshness and balance to the meal.
- → Are there gluten or soy concerns?
The dish itself is gluten-free, but processed meats may contain gluten or soy, so check all labels for allergens.
- → Is it spicy?
Cayenne provides some heat; adjust the amount to your liking or serve hot sauce on the side for extra kick.