Big Easy Red Beans Rice with Andouille Sausage

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Ever had one of those days where only comfort food will do? Honestly, red beans and rice with andouille sausage is my go-to. That spicy, smoky flavour gets me every time.

Brief Overview

This Southern Red Beans and Rice Recipe is a true taste of Louisiana Recipes . This dish is proper Creole comfort food.

It’s easy peasy, taking about 2 hours and 40 minutes. This recipe makes enough for 6-8 servings perfect for the family.

Main Benefits

Beans are a good source of fiber, you know? Serve this Red Beans N Rice Recipe up at a laid back Sunday dinner.

What makes it special? The slow simmering brings out all the delicious flavors.

Let's Talk Red Beans and Rice

Okay, so red beans and rice slow cooker meals are amazing, right? I remember my first time trying to make New Orleans style red beans and rice .

I messed it up big time . I didn't let it simmer long enough, and the beans were still hard.

But don't you worry, I’ve got you covered. This Creole red beans and rice recipe avoids that disaster.

Ingredients for Our Big Easy Dish

Here's what you'll need. First, you need 1 pound of dried red kidney beans. Then you need 1 pound of andouille sausage.

And 2 cups of long grain white rice. It might sound like a lot, but trust me, it’s worth it. Honestly, it just feels complete without the rice.

Swaps and Changes

Want a red beans and rice vegetarian option? Just ditch the sausage! Add smoked paprika for that smoky flavor. You can also add smoked tofu or plant based sausage.

I know many people are time poor, so feel free to use a red beans and rice instant pot . Remember to adjust cooking times accordingly.

You might want to use chicken sausage instead of pork for a healthier version.

Let's Get Cooking

Are you ready to taste some authentic flavors? This recipe will transform your kitchen. Don't be afraid to experiment. Let's get started!

Alright, let's talk ingredients and equipment for the Southern Red Beans And Rice Recipe . This Red Beans N Rice Recipe is all about simple comfort.

Forget fancy gadgets, we're keeping it real.

What You'll Need: The Ingredients Breakdown

First, the stars of our New Orleans style red beans and rice . We need the red beans and rice with magic:

Main Ingredients

• Dried Red Kidney Beans: 1 pound ( 454g ), rinsed. Seriously, rinse 'em good! Quality? Just regular supermarket beans are fine. If you're fancy, go for organic. Pro tip: Soaking them overnight speeds things up.
• Water or Broth: 8 cups ( 1.9L ). Low-sodium chicken broth adds a nice depth, but water works just as well. I once used leftover vegetable stock by mistake, it was still pretty good.
• Andouille Sausage: 1 pound ( 454g ), sliced. Andouille Sausage is key for that authentic flavor. If you can't find it, any smoked sausage will do in a pinch.
• Olive Oil or Veg Oil: 1 tablespoon ( 15ml ). Nothing special needed here.
• Yellow Onion: 1 large , diced.
• Green Bell Pepper: 1 , diced.
• Celery Stalks: 2 , diced.
• Garlic: 4 cloves , minced. Fresh garlic is always best, trust me.
• Long Grain White Rice: 2 cups ( 400g ), rinsed. We want fluffy rice, not sticky!
• Water for Rice: 4 cups ( 950ml ).

Seasoning Notes

Seasoning is where the magic happens with this Creole red beans and rice .

• Essential Spice Combo: Thyme, oregano, smoked paprika, cayenne. Think warm, smoky, and a little kick.
• Flavor Boosters: Bay leaves! Don't skip them. Salt and pepper.
• Substitutions: If you don't have smoked paprika, regular paprika + a pinch of liquid smoke does the trick. For a vegetarian option, add smoked paprika for a smoky flavor. You can also add diced smoked tofu or plant based sausage for a Red beans and rice vegetarian version.

Gear Up: The Equipment List

This Easy Rice Recipes and Louisiana Recipes list is short and sweet:

Equipment Needed

• Large Pot or Dutch Oven: This is your workhorse. A heavy bottom helps prevent scorching. I use my Nana's old cast iron one.
• Cutting Board & Knife: Obvious, but essential.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons: Gotta get those amounts right!
• Rice Cooker: (Optional). Makes perfect rice every time. If not, a regular pot will do. Follow the directions on the rice packaging. This is great for Red beans and rice instant pot versions.

That's it, my friend! This Southern Red Beans And Rice Recipe is a gem. Red beans and rice slow cooker meals are the best.

Now get in that kitchen and make some magic!.

Big Easy Red Beans & Rice with Andouille Sausage

Alright, let's get cracking on this classic! Red beans and rice with sausage it's the culinary equivalent of a warm hug.

This is proper Southern comfort food. I'm going to lay out a recipe outline that’s foolproof.

This hearty Southern Red Beans And Rice Recipe is a New Orleans staple. It's a symphony of smoky sausage, creamy red beans, and aromatic spices.

It builds flavours over time, the longer it cooks, the better it gets.

Prep Steps to Your Red Beans N Rice Recipe

Essential mise en place is key. Dice that onion, bell pepper, and celery. Mince the garlic! Get your spices measured out. For safety, remember to rinse the red beans thoroughly before starting.

Time Saving Hacks

Honestly, chopping all those veggies can be a drag. Buy pre-chopped veggies if you are in a rush. It's a total time saver!

step-by-step: Cooking New Orleans style red beans and rice

1. (Optional) Soak Red beans and rice vegetarian , soaking reduces cooking time.
2. Sauté sausage in oil over medium heat. We use 1 pound (454g) andouille sausage . Brown it well and set aside.
3. Sauté onion, bell pepper, and celery for 5- 7 minutes . Add 4 cloves garlic and cook another 1 minute .
4. Return sausage. Add 1 pound (454g) dried red kidney beans . Then, add 8 cups (1.9L) water or broth and spices.
5. Simmer. Reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 2-2. 5 hours . Or until the beans are tender.
6. (Optional) Mash some beans for a creamier texture during last 30 minutes .
7. Cook rice! While beans simmer, prepare 2 cups (400g) long grain white rice per package directions.
8. Serve your Creole red beans and rice over the rice. Remove bay leaves before serving,

Pro Tips for the Best Louisiana Recipes

Easy Rice Recipes ? Use a rice cooker. It's foolproof, you know? Always gets the rice perfect.

I know a secret! The longer they simmer, the creamier the red beans and rice slow cooker get . Resist the urge to rush the process.

Honestly? Red beans and rice instant pot can be rushed, but low and slow wins every time

Common Mistakes

Don't skimp on the seasoning! Also, avoid overcooking the rice.

Recipe Notes: Your Southern Red Beans And Rice Recipe Cheat Sheet

Right, so you’re ready to tackle some red beans and rice with that I just gave you? Before you dive in, let's go through some helpful notes.

I want you to create the New Orleans style red beans and rice like a pro! These are things I’ve learned making this dish a gazillion times.

Honestly, they can be life savers!

Serving Like a Pro: Plating and Presentation

Okay, so presentation matters, you know? For red beans n rice recipe , I love serving it family style. Big bowl in the middle, everyone helps themselves.

Garnish with some fresh parsley or green onions. It makes it look super fancy. If you're feeling a bit posh, you can serve individual portions with a little sprig of thyme.

What to serve with it? Louisiana recipes just cry out for cornbread. Seriously, it's the law ! A crisp side salad is great to cut through the richness too.

Oh, and a bit of Andouille Sausage ? It’s a must. As for drinks, a cold beer or some sweet iced tea is perfect, innit?

How to Store Easy Rice Recipes : Refrigeration and Freezing

Leftovers? If there are any! Let the Creole red beans and rice cool completely before popping it in an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for about 3-4 days.

Want to freeze it? No problem! Spoon it into freezer safe bags or containers. It will keep for up to 2-3 months.

When you're ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Then, just reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Add a splash of water or broth if it seems dry when reheating.

Making it Your Own: Variations

So, what if you're after a red beans and rice vegetarian option? Easy peasy! Just skip the sausage. Add some smoked paprika to give it a smoky flavor.

Diced smoked tofu is a great addition too!

Want to give your Red Beans N Rice Recipe that zing? Add a dash of hot sauce, or a pinch of Creole seasoning! In winter, I'll throw in some chopped butternut squash for sweetness.

It is banging!

Nutrition Bits: Andouille Sausage

Here's the lowdown. A serving of this Southern Red Beans And Rice Recipe dish has about 450-550 calories. It is packed with protein and fiber.

The key health benefits are the beans which are great for your gut. Keep an eye on the sodium content.

The sausage can be a bit salty.

Don't fancy simmering for hours? Try red beans and rice slow cooker . Seriously saves time. Or give red beans and rice instant pot a whirl. It is even quicker.

Right, so now you are ready to make it! Don't be scared to experiment and put your own spin on it. Happy cooking, my friend!

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to soak the red beans overnight? It's a bit of a faff!

Soaking the red beans overnight before making red beans and rice with sausage helps them cook faster and more evenly, like giving them a head start in a race. If you're short on time, though, don't sweat it! Just rinse the beans well and add an extra hour or so to the simmering time. They'll still turn out just dandy.

Can I make red beans and rice with canned beans instead of dried? I'm all about convenience.

Absolutely! Using canned red kidney beans for your red beans and rice is a great time saver, especially if you're after a quick dinner, so, yes, you can. Just drain and rinse them well before adding them to the pot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Since they're already cooked, you're really just letting them absorb all those lovely flavors. It’s as easy as pie!

How can I make my red beans and rice thicker and creamier? Mine always seems a bit watery, innit?

For thicker, creamier red beans and rice, try mashing about a cup or two of the beans against the side of the pot during the last 30-45 minutes of cooking. This releases their starch and helps thicken the sauce naturally.

Another tip is to simmer the beans uncovered for the last little while to allow some of the excess liquid to evaporate, just keep an eye on it.

What's the best way to store leftover red beans and rice with sausage? I always seem to make too much!

Leftover red beans and rice is the gift that keeps on giving! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems a bit dry.

You can also freeze it for longer storage (up to 2-3 months); just make sure it's cooled completely before freezing.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian? I don't eat meat, but I'm craving that Louisiana flavour!

You can definitely make a delicious vegetarian version of red beans and rice! Simply omit the sausage and add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or liquid smoke to give it that smoky flavor. You could also add diced smoked tofu or plant based sausage alternatives for added protein and texture.

Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a truly veggie friendly meal.

Is red beans and rice healthy?

Red beans and rice can be part of a balanced diet. It provides a good source of protein and fiber. To make it healthier, consider using brown rice instead of white and opt for lower sodium broth and sausage options. Portion control is also key, as with any delicious comfort food.