Save A classic Creole dish featuring tender red beans simmered with smoky sausage and aromatic vegetables, served over fluffy white rice. Hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a comforting meal.
I first tasted homemade red beans & rice while visiting family in New Orleans, and it quickly became a staple at our table. The simple ingredients make it an easy weeknight dinner with incredible flavor.
Ingredients
- Beans & Protein: 1 pound (450 g) dried red kidney beans, rinsed and soaked overnight; 12 ounces (340 g) smoked sausage (such as 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
- Prep Beans:
- Drain and rinse soaked beans and set aside.
- Brown Sausage & Ham:
- In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Cook sausage and ham (if using) until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- Add onion, bell pepper, and celery to the pot. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Return sausage and ham/hock to the pot. Add soaked beans, broth, water, bay leaves, thyme, paprika, cayenne, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly.
- Simmer:
- Bring mixture 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.
- Finish:
- Remove ham hock (if used), shred any meat, and return to pot. Discard bay leaves. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Serve:
- Serve hot over cooked rice. Garnish with green onions, parsley, and hot sauce if desired.
Save This dish always brings our family around the table, sharing stories between spoonfuls of smoky beans and fluffy rice.
Required Tools
Large Dutch oven or heavy pot, chefs knife, cutting board, measuring cups & spoons, wooden spoon or spatula, ladle
Allergen Information
Contains: None of the major allergens. If using sausage or ham, check for gluten and soy in processed meats. Always verify ingredient labels if allergic or sensitive.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 440, Total Fat: 13 g, Carbohydrates: 57 g, Protein: 23 g
Save Serve warm with cornbread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. This classic is just as good the next day, full of lively flavors.
Recipe Questions
- → How long should red beans soak before cooking?
Red beans should be rinsed and soaked overnight to reduce cooking time and improve their texture.
- → Can smoked sausage be substituted?
Yes, smoked sausage like andouille or kielbasa adds depth, but other smoked or spicy sausages can be used for varied flavors.
- → What spices enhance the dish's flavor?
Thyme, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and oregano are key seasonings providing a savory and slightly spicy profile.
- → Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Omit the sausage and ham, then add smoked paprika and a touch of liquid smoke to simulate smoky depth without meat.
- → What type of rice pairs best with this dish?
Fluffy long-grain white rice complements the creamy beans and absorbs flavors well for a balanced plate.
- → How can I adjust the spice level?
Modify the amount of cayenne pepper according to your heat preference, starting with a small pinch and increasing gradually.