Red beans and rice

Red Beans and Rice is a classic and hearty dish that hails from the Southern United States, particularly Louisiana. This flavorful and satisfying meal is known for its rich blend of spices, tender red beans, and savory rice. With a history rooted in Creole and Cajun cuisines, Red Beans and Rice has become a symbol of comfort and tradition. This recipe brings together the warmth of aromatic spices and the heartiness of beans, creating a delicious and wholesome dish that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups cooked red kidney beans (canned or pre-cooked)
• 1 lb (about 450g) smoked sausage or Andouille sausage, sliced
• ONE large onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 3 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ONE teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 bay leaf
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Green onions and fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Rice:
   • Cook the white rice according to the package instructions. Set aside.
2. Sauté Sausage:
   • In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, sauté the sliced sausage over medium heat until it’s browned and releases its flavor. Remove the sausage from the pan and set it aside.
3. Sauté Vegetables:
   • In the same pan, add the chopped onion, diced bell pepper, and diced celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.
4. Add Garlic and Spices:
   • Add minced garlic to the vegetables and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant. Stir in Cajun seasoning, dried thyme, smoked paprika, and the bay leaf. Mix well to coat the vegetables in the spices.
5. Combine Beans and Sausage:
   • Return the cooked sausage to the pan and add the pre-cooked red kidney beans. Stir to combine.
6. Pour in Broth:
   • Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, ensuring that it covers the beans and sausage. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
7. Simmer and Season:
   • Allow the mixture to simmer for about 20-30 minutes, letting the flavors meld. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
8. Serve Over Rice:
   • Serve the Red Beans and Sausage over the cooked white rice. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
9. Garnish and Enjoy:
   • Garnish with chopped green onions and fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting Red Beans and Rice dish!

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Serves 6):

• Calories: 450
• Fat: 18g
• Protein: 20g
• Total Carbohydrates: 55g
• Dietary Fiber: 8g
• Net Carbs: 47g