new orleans style red beans and rice recipe

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new orleans style red beans and rice recipe
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The Best new orleans style red beans and rice recipe

New Orleans style red beans and rice is a staple dish that has been passed down through generations. I remember my grandmother making it for family gatherings and special occasions, and now I make it for my kids. The smell of the simmering beans fills the entire house, and everyone knows that it’s time to eat when they catch a whiff of that aroma.

It’s a comforting dish that warms the soul, and I love how it brings everyone together around the table. The key to making great red beans and rice is to use a combination of pork sausage and bacon for added flavor. You can also add in some smoked paprika for a deeper smoky taste.

I like to use a ham hock or a small piece of beef for added richness. The longer you let the beans simmer, the better they will taste. My grandmother used to say that the secret to good red beans was letting them cook for at least an hour, so the flavors could meld together.

One of my favorite things about red beans and rice is how versatile it is. You can serve it as a side dish or add in some vegetables like bell peppers or onions for added flavor. I like to serve it with some crusty French bread on the side, so everyone can mop up all the juices.

I’ve been making this recipe for years, and every time I do, my kids ask me to make it again soon. It’s a family favorite, and I love how it brings us all together around the dinner table. Red beans and rice is also a very healthy dish when made with lean meats and minimal added salt.

The beans are high in fiber, protein, and antioxidants, making them a nutritious addition to any meal.

New Orleans Style Red Beans and Rice

New Orleans Style Red Beans and Rice

4.9 from 1057 votes

This classic New Orleans dish features creamy red beans slow-cooked with savory spices and served over fluffy rice. A hearty and comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Red Beans

1 lb red beans
1 medium onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 stalks celery, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp cayenne pepper
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 ham hock or smoked sausage

For the Rice

2 cups long-grain white rice
4 cups water
1 tsp salt

For Garnish

2 green onions, chopped
2 tbsp chopped parsley

👨‍🍳Directions

1Rinse the red beans under cold water and pick out any debris.
2Place them in a large pot and cover with water.
3Bring to a boil over high heat.
4Reduce heat to medium and simmer for 10 minutes.
5Drain and set aside.
6In the same pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
7Add the onion, bell pepper, and celery.
8Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
9Add the garlic, thyme, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to the pot.
10Stir to combine and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
11Add the drained red beans, broth, and ham hock or smoked sausage to the pot.
12Stir well to combine.
13Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
14Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the beans are tender and the liquid has thickened.
15Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
16While the beans are cooking, rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
Drain well.
17In a rice cooker or saucepan, combine the rice, water, and salt.
18Bring to a boil over high heat.
19Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water has been absorbed.
20Fluff with a fork and set aside.
21Once the beans are tender and the liquid has thickened, remove the ham hock or smoked sausage from the pot and set it aside to cool.
22Once cool enough to handle, chop the meat into small pieces and return it to the pot.
23Stir well to combine.
24Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
25Serve the red beans over the cooked rice and garnish with chopped green onions and parsley.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Colander
Rice cooker or saucepan with lid

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 8g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 25mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 50g🥦Dietary Fiber: 8g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 20g

📝Notes

Tips: You can substitute andouille sausage for a spicier flavor. For a vegetarian option, omit the ham hock or smoked sausage and use vegetable broth.

Watch Video Of How New Orleans Style Red Beans and Rice Works

This recipe is always a good idea for any occasion because it’s easy to make in large quantities and can be served as a main course or side dish.

It’s also very versatile, so you can add in your favorite vegetables or meats to suit your taste preferences.

When reheating leftover red beans and rice, simply add some chicken broth or water to moisten them up before serving.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About New Orleans Style Red Beans and Rice

Q: What type of meat should I use for this recipe?

In this recipe, we recommend using pork sausage or bacon for added flavor. You can also add in some smoked paprika for a deeper smoky taste.

Q: How long should I let the beans simmer?

The longer you let the beans simmer, the better they will taste. We recommend letting them cook for at least an hour so the flavors can meld together.

Q: Can I use canned red kidney beans instead of dried ones?

No, we recommend using dried red kidney beans for this recipe. Canned beans won’t have the same texture or flavor as dried ones.

Q: What type of bread should I serve with this dish?

We recommend serving this dish with crusty French bread on the side. This will allow everyone to mop up all the juices from the beans.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time by cooking the beans and then refrigerating or freezing them until you’re ready to reheat them.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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