Welcome to our kitchen, where we’re about to embark on a culinary journey to the vibrant streets of New Orleans with our Red Beans and Rice recipe. This iconic dish is a testament to the rich cultural tapestry of Louisiana, blending flavors from Creole and Cajun traditions into a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Who is this Recipe For?
Whether you’re a seasoned home cook looking to expand your repertoire or a busy parent searching for a wholesome and delicious meal to satisfy your family, our Red Beans and Rice recipe is just what you need. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences and dietary restrictions, making it ideal for anyone looking for a flavorful and nourishing meal.
Why it’s Great
What sets our Red Beans and Rice recipe apart is its simplicity and depth of flavor. By slow-cooking creamy red beans with aromatic vegetables, savory spices, and tender rice, we create a dish that’s comforting, satisfying, and bursting with Southern charm. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and can easily feed a crowd, making it perfect for gatherings and potlucks.
Ingredients(Red Beans and Rice Recipe)
To make our Red Beans and Rice, you’ll need:
- 1 pound dried red beans
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked white rice, for serving
- Optional toppings: sliced green onions, chopped parsley, hot sauce
Directions(Red Beans and Rice Recipe)
- Rinse the red beans and soak them overnight in a large bowl of water. Alternatively, you can use the quick soak method by bringing the beans and water to a boil, then removing them from the heat and letting them soak for 1 hour.
- In a large Dutch oven or pot, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and celery, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Drain the soaked beans and add them to the pot along with the chicken or vegetable broth, bay leaf, thyme, oregano, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, covered, for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until the beans are tender.
- Once the beans are cooked through and creamy, season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. If the mixture is too thick, you can add more broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.
- Serve the red beans over cooked white rice, garnished with sliced green onions, chopped parsley, and a drizzle of hot sauce, if desired.
Red Beans and Rice Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 Pound Dried Red Beans
- 1 Onion Diced
- 1 Green Bell Pepper Diced
- 2 Celery Stalks Diced
- 4 Cloves Garlic Minced
- 4 Cups Chicken or Vegetable Broth
- 1 Bay Leaf
- 1 Teaspoon Dried Thyme
- 1 Teaspoon Dried Oregano
- 1 Teaspoon Smoked Paprika
- 1/2 Teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Adjust to Taste
- Salt and Pepper to Taste
- Cooked White Rice for Serving
- Optional Toppings: Sliced Green Onions Chopped Parsley, Hot Sauce
Instructions
- Rinse the red beans and soak them overnight in a large bowl of water. Alternatively, you can use the quick soak method by bringing the beans and water to a boil, then removing them from the heat and letting them soak for 1 hour.
- In a large Dutch oven or pot, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and celery, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Drain the soaked beans and add them to the pot along with the chicken or vegetable broth, bay leaf, thyme, oregano, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, covered, for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until the beans are tender.
- Once the beans are cooked through and creamy, season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. If the mixture is too thick, you can add more broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.
- Serve the red beans over cooked white rice, garnished with sliced green onions, chopped parsley, and a drizzle of hot sauce, if desired.
Notes
- Calories: Approximately 300-350 kcal
- Protein: Approximately 15-20 grams
- Fat: Approximately 2-5 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 55-60 grams
- Fiber: Approximately 10-15 grams
- Sodium: Varies based on seasoning; typically around 500-700 mg
Kitchen Equipment Needed
To make our Red Beans and Rice recipe, you’ll need the following kitchen equipment:
- Large bowl for soaking beans
- Dutch oven or large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
How to Store Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Simply reheat the red beans and rice in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
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FAQ(Red Beans and Rice Recipe)
1Can I use canned beans instead of dried for the Red Beans and Rice Recipe?
- While canned beans can be used, we recommend dried beans for optimal flavor and texture in the Red Beans and Rice Recipe.
2. Is the Red Beans and Rice Recipe spicy?
- The spiciness can be adjusted to taste in the Red Beans and Rice Recipe by altering the amount of cayenne pepper used.
3. Can I make the Red Beans and Rice Recipe vegetarian or vegan?
- Yes, simply substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth in the Red Beans and Rice Recipe to make it vegetarian or vegan-friendly.
4. How long can I store leftovers of the Red Beans and Rice Recipe?
- Leftovers of the Red Beans and Rice Recipe can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
5. What are some food pairings for the Red Beans and Rice Recipe?
- The Red Beans and Rice Recipe pairs well with classic Southern sides like cornbread, collard greens, and fried catfish for a complete meal experience.
Food Pairings
Our Red Beans and Rice recipe pairs perfectly with a refreshing glass of sweet tea or a crisp lager beer. For a complete Southern-inspired meal, serve it alongside cornbread, collard greens, and fried catfish.
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Happy cooking!