Authentic Louisiana Red Beans and Rice is a classic Southern dish that embodies the rich culinary traditions of Creole cuisine. Traditionally cooked on Mondays with leftover Sunday ham, this hearty and flavorful meal features creamy red beans simmered with smoked sausage, ham, and a blend of aromatic vegetables and spices. The long cooking time allows the beans to absorb the smoky, savory flavors, resulting in a comforting dish that is both satisfying and delicious. Served over fluffy white rice, this staple of Louisiana cuisine is perfect for a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb dried red beans, soaked overnight and drained
- 1 lb smoked sausage or andouille sausage, sliced
- 1/2 lb ham, diced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 cups water or chicken broth
- 4 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked white rice (for serving)
- Hot sauce (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Sausage:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage and set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables:
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the Beans and Seasonings:
- Return the sausage to the pot. Add the soaked and drained red beans, diced ham, bay leaves, thyme, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer the Beans:
- Pour in the water or chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let the beans simmer, uncovered, for about 2 to 2.5 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender and the liquid is thick and creamy.
- Adjust Seasonings:
- Taste and adjust the seasonings, adding more salt, pepper, or cayenne if needed. If the beans are too thick, you can add a little more water to reach the desired consistency.
- Serve:
- Remove the bay leaves from the pot. Serve the red beans over cooked white rice. Garnish with sliced green onions and chopped parsley. Add a splash of hot sauce if desired for extra heat.
Enjoy your Authentic Louisiana Red Beans and Rice, a comforting and flavorful dish that captures the essence of Creole cooking!
