Pin It A classic Creole dish featuring tender red beans simmered with smoky sausage and aromatic vegetables, served over fluffy white rice. Hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a comforting meal.
This dish has always been a staple in my family bringing warmth and tradition to our table.
Ingredients
- Beans & Protein: 1 pound (450 g) dried red kidney beans rinsed and soaked overnight 12 ounces (340 g) smoked sausage (e.g. andouille or kielbasa) sliced 1 ham hock or 4 ounces (115 g) diced smoked ham (optional)
- Vegetables: 1 large yellow onion diced 1 green bell pepper diced 2 celery stalks diced 4 garlic cloves minced
- Liquids: 6 cups (1.4 L) low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth 2 cups (480 ml) water
- Seasonings: 2 bay leaves 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste) 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon salt (to taste) 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Rice: 3 cups (525 g) cooked long-grain white rice
- Garnishes (optional): Sliced green onions Fresh parsley Hot sauce
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Drain and rinse the soaked beans. Set aside.
- Step 2:
- In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and ham (if using) and cook until browned about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Step 3:
- Add onion bell pepper and celery to the pot. Sauté for 5 7 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Step 4:
- Return the sausage (and ham/hock) to the pot. Add the soaked beans broth water bay leaves thyme paprika cayenne oregano salt and pepper. Stir well.
- Step 5:
- Bring to a boil then reduce heat to low. Cover partially and simmer for 1 hour stirring occasionally until beans are tender and creamy. Add more water if needed.
- Step 6:
- Remove the ham hock (if used) shred any meat and return it to the pot. Discard bay leaves. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Step 7:
- Serve hot over cooked rice. Garnish with green onions parsley and a splash of hot sauce if desired.
Pin It This recipe has brought many family dinners filled with stories and laughter around the table.
Notes
Best served with cornbread or a simple green salad.
Required Tools
Large Dutch oven or heavy pot Chefs knife Cutting board Measuring cups & spoons Wooden spoon or spatula Ladle
Allergen Information
Contains None of the major allergens. If using sausage or ham check for gluten and soy in processed meats. Always verify ingredient labels if allergic or sensitive.
Pin It Enjoy this classic dish with your loved ones as a comforting and flavorful meal.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How should I prepare the beans for cooking?
Rinse the red kidney beans thoroughly and soak them overnight to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility.
- → Can I make a vegetarian version without the sausage and ham?
Yes, omit the meats and add smoked paprika plus a dash of liquid smoke to maintain a smoky flavor profile.
- → What vegetables are used to build flavor in this dish?
Yellow onion, green bell pepper, celery, and garlic create a flavorful aromatic base when sautéed before simmering.
- → How long should the beans simmer for creamy texture?
Simmer gently for about one hour, stirring occasionally until the beans are tender and creamy.
- → What garnishes complement the dish best?
Fresh sliced green onions, chopped parsley, and a splash of hot sauce add freshness and a mild kick on top.