This comforting Creole dish transforms simple dried red beans into a rich, creamy stew through slow simmering. The recipe relies on the holy trinity of onions, peppers, and celery to build a deep flavor base, enhanced by smoked sausage or ham for that authentic Southern smoke. The beans are partially mashed to create a luxurious, thick consistency that coats the rice perfectly. It&# 226;ÂÂs a staple for Monday night dinners in New Orleans, offering a robust, savory experience that is both economical and deeply satisfying. Ideal for casual family meals or potlucks, this dish improves with time as the flavors meld together.
Creole Red Beans & Rice
Description
This comforting Creole dish transforms simple dried red beans into a rich, creamy stew through slow simmering. The recipe relies on the holy trinity of onions, peppers, and celery to build a deep flavor base, enhanced by smoked sausage or ham for that authentic Southern smoke. The beans are partially mashed to create a luxurious, thick consistency that coats the rice perfectly. It&# 226;ÂÂs a staple for Monday night dinners in New Orleans, offering a robust, savory experience that is both economical and deeply satisfying. Ideal for casual family meals or potlucks, this dish improves with time as the flavors meld together.Ingredients
Directions
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Rinse the dried red beans thoroughly and soak them in cold water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
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Drain and rinse the soaked beans, then place them in a large pot with fresh water to cover by 2 inches.
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Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover partially, and simmer gently until the beans are tender, about 1 to 2 hours.
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While beans cook, heat bacon drippings or oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Add diced ham, salt pork, or smoked sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
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Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing until the onions are soft and translucent.
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Stir the sausage and vegetable mixture into the pot of cooked beans.
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Season with salt, black pepper, and chopped parsley to taste.
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Ladle out about 1 cup of beans into a bowl, mash them with a fork or sieve until smooth, and stir back into the pot to thicken the sauce.
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Simmer the beans for another 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld, adjusting liquid if too thick.
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Serve hot over a bed of freshly cooked white rice.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 466.8kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.0g0%
- Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 1.2mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 120.0g40%
- Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
- Sugars 120.0g
- Protein 0.0g0%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
