Savory New Orleans Style Red Beans and Rice
This hearty and flavorful dish pays homage to a cherished New Orleans tradition, where red beans and rice were simmered gently on a Monday while families went about their laundry chores. This simple yet delicious recipe allows the rich flavors of the red kidney beans to shine through. The dish can also be easily customized by adding garlic and bell peppers for extra depth. For protein, you can substitute smoked sausage with andouille sausage, ham, or even pickled meats, based on your preferences. Traditionally served over medium grain steamed rice, this recipe not only fills the belly but also warms the heart with every delicious spoonful. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this dish embodies the welcoming spirit of New Orleans cuisine.
N/A
Servings
200
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
red kidney beans
1 lb (rinsed and soaked overnight)
medium onion
1 (chopped)
celery
1 stalk (chopped)
parsley
1/2 teaspoon (dried)
thyme
1/2 teaspoon (dried)
salt
to taste (none)
pepper
to taste (none)
water
4 cups (none)
smoked sausage
1 lb (cut into 1-2 inch pieces)
baking powder
1 teaspoon (mixed with water)
Instructions
1
Rinse the red kidney beans thoroughly in cold water and soak them overnight in fresh water for at least 8 hours or up to 12 hours.
2
In a large pot, combine the soaked beans, chopped onion, chopped celery, parsley, thyme, water, salt, and pepper. Bring to a rolling boil, stirring occasionally.
3
Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low while maintaining a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and add more water if necessary.
4
After about 1.5 to 3 hours, when the beans start to soften and some begin to break apart, add the cut smoked sausage to the pot.
5
Using a flat wooden spoon, gently mash some of the beans against the side of the pot. This will help thicken the broth and create a creamy consistency.
6
Continue to simmer until the sauce has thickened to your liking. Once it has reached a creamy texture, it is ready to serve over your preferred rice.
7
Finally, mix the baking powder with an ounce or two of water and add it to the pot just before serving. This will cause the beans to foam, which can help reduce gas and bloating. Stir to combine.
8
Serve hot over steamed rice and enjoy a taste of New Orleans!
Nutrition Information
6.7
Fat
9
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I soak the red kidney beans?
You should soak the red kidney beans in fresh water for at least 8 hours or up to 12 hours after rinsing them thoroughly.
What type of rice is best for New Orleans Style Red Beans and Rice?
Traditionally, this dish is served over medium grain steamed rice.
Why is baking powder added to the recipe?
Baking powder is mixed with water and added at the end to cause the beans to foam, which helps reduce gas and bloating.
How do I achieve a creamy consistency for the bean broth?
Using a flat wooden spoon, gently mash some of the softened beans against the side of the pot to thicken the broth and create a creamy texture.
What meat can I substitute for smoked sausage?
You can substitute smoked sausage with andouille sausage, ham, or pickled meats based on your preference.
When should I add the sausage to the pot?
Add the cut smoked sausage after the beans have simmered for about 1.5 to 3 hours and have started to soften.
What is the historical tradition behind this dish?
In New Orleans tradition, red beans and rice were typically simmered on Mondays while families focused on their weekly laundry chores.
Can I add extra vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, you can easily customize the dish by adding garlic and bell peppers for extra depth of flavor.
What seasonings are used in this recipe?
The recipe uses dried parsley, dried thyme, salt, and pepper to season the beans.
How much water is needed for one pound of beans?
The recipe calls for 4 cups of water to be combined with the beans and vegetables.
What is the calorie count for this dish?
Each serving contains approximately 200 calories.
How much protein is in a serving?
There are 9 grams of protein per serving.
Is it necessary to boil the beans?
Yes, you should bring the beans and vegetables to a rolling boil before reducing the heat to a simmer.
How long does the total simmering process take?
The beans typically simmer for 1.5 to 3 hours until they soften, followed by additional time to thicken the sauce.
What should I do if the water level gets too low?
You should stir the pot occasionally and add more water if necessary to keep the beans submerged and prevent sticking.
What is the fat content of this recipe?
This dish contains 6.7 grams of fat per serving.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
While the recipe specifies dried parsley and thyme, you can use fresh herbs, though you may need to adjust the quantities.
How many ingredients are required for this recipe?
There are 10 main ingredients: red kidney beans, onion, celery, parsley, thyme, salt, pepper, water, smoked sausage, and baking powder.
Is this recipe suitable for large gatherings?
Yes, it is described as perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings due to its hearty nature.
What type of onion should I use?
The recipe calls for one chopped medium onion.
Do I add the baking powder directly to the pot?
No, you should first mix the teaspoon of baking powder with an ounce or two of water before adding it to the pot.
Should the beans be soaked in hot or cold water?
The beans should be rinsed in cold water and then soaked in fresh water.
What temperature should I use for simmering?
Use medium-low heat to maintain a gentle simmer after the initial boil.
How big should the sausage pieces be?
The smoked sausage should be cut into 1 to 2 inch pieces.
Does this recipe include bell peppers?
The base recipe does not include them, but it suggests adding them as a customization for extra depth.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can omit the smoked sausage or use a plant-based sausage alternative to make the dish vegetarian.
Is this a spicy dish?
The heat level is mild as written, but using andouille sausage or adding extra pepper can increase the spice.
What is the texture of the finished beans?
The finished dish should have a creamy consistency with some beans broken down to thicken the sauce.
How many stalks of celery are needed?
The recipe requires one chopped stalk of celery.
When is the best time to serve this?
It should be served hot immediately after the sauce has reached your desired thickness and the baking powder mixture has been stirred in.