Print

New Orleans–Style Red Beans and Rice Recipe

New Orleans–Style Red Beans and Rice Recipe
Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 28 reviews

This New Orleans–Style Red Beans and Rice recipe is a classic Southern comfort dish that features creamy red beans simmered with aromatic vegetables, savory andouille sausage, and a blend of spices. Perfect for a hearty and flavorful meal!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Beans:

  • 1 pound (450 g) red kidney beans
  • Kosher salt
  • 1 smoked ham hock (optional)
  • 8 ounces (225 g) pickled pork shoulder or rind (optional; see note)
  • 4 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 3 bay leaves

For the Main Dish:

  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) vegetable oil or lard
  • 1 pound (about 450 g) cooked andouille sausage, cut into 1/2-inch disks
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped (about 12 ounces; 340 g)
  • 1 green bell pepper, stemmed, seeded, and finely chopped (about 8 ounces; 225 g)
  • 4 ribs celery, finely chopped (about 8 ounces; 225 g)
  • 4 medium cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon (3 to 15 g) ground cayenne pepper (depending on preference)
  • 1 teaspoon (about 4 g) ground sage
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • Hot sauce, such as Crystal or Frank’s, to taste
  • Cider vinegar, to taste (optional; see note)
  • Cooked white rice, for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Beans: Soak the red kidney beans in salted water for 8 to 16 hours. Drain and rinse.
  2. Cook the Main Dish: Sauté andouille in oil until browned. Add onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Season with spices and add beans, ham hock, pickled pork, thyme, and bay leaves. Simmer until beans are tender, about 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 hours.
  3. Thicken and Season: Uncover and cook until creamy, adding water if needed. Remove bay leaves and thyme. Adjust seasoning with hot sauce, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Refrigerate overnight for best results.
  4. Serve: Reheat the stew, adding water if necessary, and serve over steamed white rice.

Notes

  • For added depth of flavor, consider using the optional smoked ham hock and pickled pork.
  • Cider vinegar can be added for a tangy kick, adjust to personal taste.
  • Allowing the dish to rest overnight enhances the flavors and texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: Red beans and rice, Southern comfort food, New Orleans recipe, Andouille sausage, Cajun cuisine

Find it online: https://lucabites.com/new-orleansstyle-red-beans-and-rice-recipe/