Savory Slow-Cooked Cajun Red Beans and Rice
Indulge in the rich flavors of the South with this Savory Slow-Cooked Cajun Red Beans and Rice recipe. This dish, a staple in Creole cuisine, combines tender red beans simmered with smoky cajun kielbasa, flavorful tomatoes, and aromatic spices for a hearty meal that warms the soul. Perfect for gatherings or a comforting weeknight dinner, this dish is easy to prepare and ideal for sharing with family and friends. Just let your slow cooker do the work while you relax!
10
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
dried red beans
1 lb (soaked overnight)
water
1 lb (for soaking)
cajun kielbasa
1 lb (sliced)
salt
2 teaspoons (to taste)
pepper
1 teaspoon (to taste)
water
4 cups
tomato paste
6 ounces
tomato sauce
8 ounces
garlic cloves
5 (minced)
cajun seasoning
to taste
Instructions
1
Soak the dried red beans in water overnight. After soaking, drain and discard the water.
2
In a large slow cooker, combine the soaked red beans, sliced cajun kielbasa, minced garlic, tomato paste, tomato sauce, and 4 cups of fresh water.
3
Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and cajun seasoning to taste. Stir everything until well combined.
4
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Cook for 10 to 12 hours, or until the beans are soft and creamy.
5
When ready to serve, fluff the cooked beans with a fork and adjust seasoning if needed.
6
Serve the savory red beans over a bed of fluffy white rice and enjoy your hearty dish!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Slow-Cooked Cajun Red Beans and Rice?
It is a hearty Southern staple that combines tender red beans, smoky Cajun kielbasa, and aromatic spices cooked slowly for a rich and creamy texture.
What are the primary ingredients for this recipe?
The main ingredients include dried red beans, Cajun kielbasa, garlic, tomato paste, tomato sauce, and Cajun seasonings.
How long does the cooking process take?
The beans need to soak overnight, followed by 10 to 12 hours of slow cooking on a low setting.
Why do I need to soak the red beans?
Soaking the dried beans overnight helps them soften properly and ensures they reach a creamy consistency during the slow cooking process.
What type of sausage is recommended for this dish?
The recipe calls for one pound of sliced Cajun kielbasa to provide a smoky and spicy flavor.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to yield approximately 10 servings.
What should I serve the red beans with?
It is traditionally served over a bed of fluffy white rice for a complete meal.
What aromatics are used in this recipe?
The recipe uses five minced garlic cloves along with tomato paste and sauce to create a flavorful base.
What seasonings give the dish its flavor?
The dish is seasoned with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning to taste.
Can this dish be made vegetarian?
Yes, you can omit the kielbasa or replace it with a plant-based sausage alternative to make it vegetarian-friendly.
What size slow cooker should I use?
A large slow cooker is recommended to accommodate the pound of beans and the additional water and ingredients.
How much water is required for the cooking stage?
You will need 4 cups of fresh water for the slow cooker, in addition to the water used for soaking.
What should the consistency of the beans be when done?
The beans should be soft, creamy, and tender after the 10-12 hour cooking period.
Can I substitute the red beans for another type?
While dried red beans are traditional, small red kidney beans are a common and acceptable substitute.
How spicy is this Cajun dish?
The heat level is moderate but can be adjusted by choosing a milder or hotter Cajun seasoning and kielbasa.
When do I add the Cajun kielbasa to the pot?
The sliced kielbasa should be added at the beginning of the slow cooking process along with the beans and sauce.
How much garlic is needed for the recipe?
The recipe requires 5 cloves of garlic, minced.
What is the role of tomato paste and sauce in this recipe?
They provide acidity and thickness, helping to create a rich gravy for the beans.
Can I cook the beans on the high setting to save time?
While low is recommended for 10-12 hours for the best texture, you could cook on high for 5-6 hours if necessary.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Does this dish taste better the next day?
Many find that the flavors deepen and improve after sitting overnight in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze the red beans?
Yes, cooked red beans freeze very well in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
What if I forgot to soak the beans overnight?
You can use a quick-soak method by boiling the beans for 2 minutes and letting them sit covered for an hour before draining.
Is this considered a main meal or a side dish?
It is a very hearty dish that is typically served as a main course.
Should I keep the soaking water for cooking?
No, you should always drain and discard the soaking water and use fresh water for the slow cooker.
How do I finish the dish before serving?
Once cooked, fluff the beans with a fork and adjust the salt, pepper, or Cajun seasoning to your preference.
Can I add bell peppers or celery to this recipe?
Yes, adding chopped onion, celery, and bell pepper (the 'Holy Trinity') is a popular way to customize this dish.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The core ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but you should verify that your kielbasa and Cajun seasoning labels do not contain gluten.
How much Cajun seasoning should I add?
The recipe suggests adding it 'to taste,' but starting with 1 tablespoon and adjusting from there is a good approach.
Can I use canned red beans instead of dried?
You can, but the cooking time will be significantly reduced to about 2-3 hours on low, and the texture will be less creamy.