I am a die hard Texan through and through. But, I am married to a Louisiana girl.
Since I am now on year eight of wedded bliss, I must share my love of Louisiana cooking through my favorite dish.
Red beans and rice is a Monday tradition in Louisiana.
During the 1700s and 1800s, Monday was considered wash day.
Since kidney beans could be cooked in a big pot over an open fire all day, the women of the house could get the washing done.
Red beans and rice were also very economical. A big pot of red beans and rice usually cost between 10 and 15 cents.
This Louisiana staple is so beloved by so many that the world famous trumpeter and New Orleans native, Louis Armstrong, signed his letters with, “Red beans and ricely yours.”
I hope you enjoy my family’s red beans and rice recipe. It is still our Monday tradition.
Red Beans & Rice
1 pound dry kidney beans
¼ cup olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
2 stalks celery, chopped
2 tablespoons minced garlic
6 cups water
2 bay leaves
1 tablespoon dried parsley
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
¼ teaspoon dried sage
1 pound andouille sausage or Conecuh sausage, sliced
1 pound of bacon
4 cups water
2 cups long grain white rice
Directions:
Gather all ingredients.
Rinse beans and soak dry beans in a pot of water overnight.
In a skillet over medium heat, saute’ bacon. After the bacon is partially cooked take out and place on a paper towel.
In the same pan, coat the bottom of the pan with oil and add veggies. Cook the vegetables until softened or about 3-4 minutes.
Rinse beans, and transfer to a large pot with 6 cups of water.
Stir cooked vegetables into beans.
Season with bay leaves, parsley, thyme, Cajun seasoning, cayenne pepper and sage.
Bring to a boil, and then reduce heat to medium-low.
Simmer for 2 1/2 hours.
Stir sausage into the beans and continue to simmer for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, prepare the rice.
Bring water and rice to a boil in a saucepan. Reduce heat, cover and simmer for 20 minutes. Serve beans over steamed white rice.
A special education teacher during the day, Matthew is an old soul with a zeal for life. A self-described Chili King, Matthew loves a good AM radio station, the great American songbook and sweet iced tea. He lives in north Texas with his wife, Megan, and their beautiful Pembroke Welsh Corgi, Bella. You can follow Matthew on Facebook and Instagram as BigSumBites.