Cajun red beans and rice is a hearty, flavorful dish rooted in Southern tradition, offering a perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and savory flavors. Made with tender red beans simmered with sausage, aromatic vegetables, and bold Cajun spices, this dish is both comforting and satisfying. Whether served as a main course or a side, red beans and rice is a timeless recipe that¡¯s perfect for gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.
INGREDIENTS
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? 1 lb (450g) dried red beans, soaked overnight and rinsed
? 1 tbsp olive oil
? 1 lb (450g) smoked sausage, sliced
? 1 medium onion, diced
? 1 green bell pepper, diced
? 2 celery stalks, diced
? 3 cloves garlic, minced
? 6 cups (1.5L) chicken or vegetable broth
? 2 bay leaves
? 1 tsp smoked paprika
? 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
? ? tsp dried thyme
? ? tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
? Salt and black pepper, to taste
? 4 cups cooked white or brown rice
? 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
? Green onions, sliced (optional, for garnish)
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INSTRUCTIONS
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1. Prepare the Sausage and Vegetables:
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? Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove the sausage
and set aside.
? In the same pot, saut¨¦ the onion, bell pepper, and celery (the ¡°holy trinity¡± of Cajun cooking) until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic
and cook for 1 minute more.
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2. Simmer the Beans:
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? Add the soaked beans to the pot along with the broth, bay leaves, smoked paprika, Cajun seasoning, thyme, cayenne pepper (if using), and browned sausage.
Stir to combine. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, uncovered, for 1 ? to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender
and the liquid thickens. Add more broth or water if needed.
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3. Adjust Seasoning:
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? Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaves before serving.
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4. Serve:
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? Spoon the red beans over a bed of cooked rice. Garnish with fresh parsley and sliced green onions, if desired.
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Cajun red beans and rice is a flavorful, satisfying dish that¡¯s easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd. Serve it with cornbread or a side salad for
a complete meal that captures the essence of Southern comfort food!
