Authentic Louisiana Red Beans and Rice is a classic Creole dish that is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Made with red kidney beans, vegetables, and spices, this dish is a staple in Louisiana cuisine. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make Authentic Louisiana Red Beans and Rice from scratch, so you can enjoy a taste of the Bayou in your own home.
Ingredients for Authentic Louisiana Red Beans and Rice
For the Red Beans:
- 1 pound dried red kidney beans
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- 8 cups water or vegetable broth
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Rice:
- 2 cups long-grain white rice
- 4 cups water
- Salt, to taste
For Serving:
- Green onions, chopped
- Hot sauce
- Cooked Andouille sausage, sliced (optional)
How to Make Authentic Louisiana Red Beans and Rice
Step 1: Prepare the Red Beans
- Rinse the red kidney beans under cold water and remove any debris.
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the dried thyme, oregano, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and bay leaf. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
- Add the rinsed red kidney beans and water or vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer, uncovered, for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender and creamy. Add more water or broth as needed to keep the beans covered.
- Season the beans with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 2: Prepare the Rice
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed. Fluff the rice with a fork.
Step 3: Serve the Red Beans and Rice
- Remove the bay leaf from the red beans.
- To serve, spoon the red beans over the rice.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and serve with hot sauce and sliced Andouille sausage, if desired.
About the Main Ingredients
Red Kidney Beans
Red kidney beans are a good source of protein and fiber. They add a hearty texture and rich flavor to the dish.
Vegetables
Onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic are known as the “holy trinity” of Cajun and Creole cuisine. They add a depth of flavor to the dish.
Spices
Thyme, oregano, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and bay leaf add a warm and spicy flavor to the red beans.
Rice
Long-grain white rice is a staple in Louisiana cooking. It serves as a fluffy and neutral base for the flavorful red beans.
