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Cajun Red Beans Rice

Freshly prepared Cajun Red Beans and Rice with savory sausage

A hearty and flavorful Cajun dish featuring tender red beans simmered with spices and served over fluffy white rice, perfect for a comforting meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup dried red kidney beans
  • 4 cups water
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 4 ounces andouille sausage, sliced
  • 2 cups cooked white rice
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Rinse and soak the dried red beans in water overnight or for at least 6 hours.
  2. Drain the beans and place them in a large pot with 4 cups of fresh water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes until beans are tender.
  3. In a separate skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, bell pepper, and celery. Sauté until vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.
  4. Add garlic, smoked paprika, thyme, Cajun seasoning, and cayenne pepper to the skillet. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
  5. Add sliced andouille sausage to the skillet and cook until browned.
  6. Transfer the sautéed mixture to the pot with the beans. Add bay leaf and stir well. Continue to simmer uncovered for 20-30 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
  7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove bay leaf before serving.
  8. Serve the red beans over warm cooked white rice and garnish with sliced green onions.

Notes

For a richer flavor, let the beans simmer longer and serve with a side of crusty bread. You can also substitute andouille sausage with smoked turkey sausage for a leaner option.