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Cajun Red Beans Rice

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

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb dried red kidney beans
  • 6 cups water
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup chopped onions
  • 1 cup chopped green bell pepper
  • 1 cup chopped celery
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 smoked sausage, sliced (optional)
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 4 cups cooked white rice
  • 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
  • Hot sauce (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Rinse and sort the red beans, then soak them overnight in water or use the quick soak method.
  2. Drain beans and add to a large pot with 6 cups of fresh water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until tender, about 1 to 1.5 hours.
  3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Sauté until vegetables are soft, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. If using sausage, add sliced sausage to the skillet and cook until lightly browned.
  5. Add the sautéed vegetables and sausage to the pot of beans. Stir in smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, cayenne, bay leaves, salt, and black pepper.
  6. Simmer the beans uncovered for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency.
  7. Remove bay leaves and adjust seasoning if needed.
  8. Serve the Cajun red beans over cooked white rice, garnished with sliced green onions and hot sauce if desired.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use andouille sausage and serve with a side of cornbread. This dish also tastes great when made a day ahead as the flavors deepen overnight.

Find it online: https://momsgate.com/cajun-red-beans-rice-hearty-flavorful/