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Cajun Red Beans Rice

A hearty and flavorful Cajun classic featuring tender red beans simmered with spices and served over fluffy rice, perfect for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup dried red kidney beans
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup diced onions
  • 1 cup diced celery
  • 1 cup diced green bell pepper
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 pound andouille sausage, sliced
  • 2 cups cooked white rice
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Chopped green onions and parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Soak the red kidney beans overnight in water. Drain and rinse before cooking.
  2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions, celery, and green bell pepper; sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the minced garlic, smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, and bay leaves; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Add the andouille sausage slices and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
  5. Pour in the soaked beans and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until beans are tender and sauce thickens.
  6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove bay leaves.
  7. Serve the red beans over cooked white rice and garnish with chopped green onions and parsley.

Notes

For an extra smoky flavor, try adding a splash of hot sauce or a smoked ham hock during cooking.