Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound dried red kidney beans
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- 6 cups water
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 cups cooked white rice
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Serving bowls
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Rinse the beans and soak them overnight in a large pot with enough water to cover them by 2 inches.
2. Drain the beans and set them aside.
3. In the same pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
4. Add the onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic, and sauté for 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Add the sausage, Cajun seasoning, thyme, oregano, and bay leaf, and cook for 5 minutes, or until the sausage is browned.
6. Add the beans and water, and bring to a boil.
7. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the beans are tender.
8. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
9. Serve the red beans over cooked white rice, and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 2-3 hours
Temperature:
- Simmer over low heat
Serving size:
- 6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 21g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Protein: 25g
- Fiber: 10g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of dried beans instead of red kidney beans.
- You can use any type of sausage instead of smoked sausage.
- You can use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs.
Variations:
- You can add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, or hot sauce for extra flavor.
- You can add shrimp or chicken for a protein boost.
- You can use brown rice instead of white rice for a healthier option.
Tips and tricks:
- Soaking the beans overnight will help them cook faster and more evenly.
- Don't add salt until the beans are fully cooked, as it can toughen the beans.
- Stir the beans occasionally to prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Storage instructions:
- Store the leftover red beans and rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the red beans and rice in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the red beans and rice in individual bowls, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.
Garnishes:
- Chopped fresh parsley
Pairings:
- Cornbread, salad, or steamed vegetables
Suggested side dishes:
- Cornbread, salad, or steamed vegetables
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the beans are still hard after 2-3 hours of cooking, add more water and continue to simmer until they are tender.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to soak the beans overnight and cook them thoroughly to avoid any potential foodborne illnesses.
Food history:
- Red beans and rice is a traditional dish from Louisiana, and it is often served on Mondays as a way to use up leftover ham bones from Sunday dinners.
Flavor profiles:
- Spicy, smoky, and savory
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the red beans and rice with a side of cornbread and a cold beer for a classic Southern meal.
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Region: Louisiana