Description
New Orleans is renowned for its vibrant culinary traditions, and one dish that truly encapsulates its rich flavors is the classic New Orleans-Style Red Beans and Rice. This hearty recipe combines simple ingredients with robust seasonings to create a dish that’s both comforting and full of depth.
Ingredients
1 pound dried red beans
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 large onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
2 bay leaves
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
Salt, to taste
1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Beans:
- Rinse the red beans thoroughly under cold water. Soak overnight in a large pot filled with water.
- Cook the Beans:
- Drain and rinse soaked beans. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in garlic, thyme, oregano, bay leaves, cayenne, and salt. Cook for 2 minutes.
- Add drained beans and enough water to cover by 2 inches. Boil, reduce heat, and simmer 1.5-2 hours until tender.
- Add Sausage:
- Add sausage to pot; simmer 30 minutes.
- Serve:
- Remove bay leaves; adjust seasoning. Serve beans and sausage over rice.
Notes
For a thicker consistency, mash some beans against the pot’s side halfway through cooking.
Adjust cayenne pepper for preferred spice.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Creole, Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings
