Lunch & Dinner

Authentic New Orleans Red Beans And Rice Recipe – Easy Family Meal

Name: Authentic New Orleans Red Beans And Rice Recipe – Easy Family Meal
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 5 h
Total time: 5 h 20 min
Yield: 10
Ingredients: 8 cups filtered water; 1 tablespoon vegetable shortening, or as needed; 1 medium white onion, finely diced; 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 pound dried red kidney beans; 1 smoked ham hock; 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced into small rounds; 2 stalks celery, diced; 2 dried bay leaves; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning blend; 1/2 teaspoon ground thyme; 1/2 teaspoon ground sage; 1 splash of hot sauce; 3 cups freshly cooked long-grain white rice; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 cup diced tomatoes

Crystal Ivers May 8, 2025

Servings: 10 Total Time: 5 hrs 20 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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Before we dive into the delicious world of Authentic New Orleans Red Beans and Rice, let’s talk about what pairs beautifully with this dish. First up?

Cornbread. The slight sweetness of cornbread balances the savory beans and spices perfectly. A side of collard greens adds some heartiness to your meal, and don’t forget the pickled vegetables for that tangy crunch!

Feeling a little adventurous? Consider a fresh garden salad tossed in a zesty vinaigrette. Its bite will cut through the richness of the beans.

And if you want the perfect drink, you can’t go wrong with a cold glass of sweet tea or perhaps a classic Hurricane cocktail. Trust me; this is comfort food at its finest.

Authentic New Orleans Red Beans And Rice Recipe

My Journey with the Ingredients

When I first started cooking, I was surprised at how versatile beans could be. They can carry flavor, absorb spices, and provide a solid base for so many dishes. In this recipe, every ingredient plays a role.

From the smoky sausage to the minced garlic, each one comes together to create a symphony of taste.

That’s why when I settled on this recipe, I was excited. I reached for a pound of dried red kidney beans.

These beans are the backbone of the dish, softening into a creamy texture as they cook. Next up, a beautiful smoked sausage. It injects flavor that’s both hearty and smoky, adding depth that is simply divine.

Peppers, onions, and celery—also known as the Holy Trinity in Cajun cooking—bring their own unique fragrance and flavor to the mix. A pinch of Cajun seasoning, just enough hot sauce for a kick, and you’ve created something magical.

Ingredients List

Here’s what you will need to make your own pot of deliciousness:

8 cups filtered water
1 tablespoon vegetable shortening, or as needed
1 medium white onion, finely diced
1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 pound dried red kidney beans
1 smoked ham hock
1 pound smoked sausage, sliced into small rounds
2 stalks celery, diced
2 dried bay leaves
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning blend
½ teaspoon ground thyme
½ teaspoon ground sage
1 splash of hot sauce
3 cups freshly cooked long-grain white rice
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ cup diced tomatoes

Best Authentic New Orleans Red Beans And Rice Recipe

How to Make Authentic New Orleans Red Beans and Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Beans

Start by rinsing the dried red kidney beans. Grab a large bowl, and cover them with water. Let them soak overnight, or at least for 6 hours. Soaking your beans not only helps to soften them but also reduces cooking time.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a heavy pot or Dutch oven, add the vegetable shortening. Heat it over medium heat until melted. Toss in the finely diced onion, chopped green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Get ready for the aromatic wave; that flavor combination is intoxicating! Stir them for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables soften.

Step 3: Layer In the Ingredients

Next, add the diced celery and sliced smoked sausage to the pot. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until your sausage starts to brown. This step enhances the flavors beautifully.

Step 4: Add the Beans and Water

Now, it’s time to introduce your soaked beans. Drain and rinse them, then add them to the pot along with the ham hock. Pour in the 8 cups of filtered water, making sure everything is well mixed.

Step 5: Season

This is where it gets exciting! Add those dried bay leaves, Cajun seasoning, ground thyme, ground sage, hot sauce, and a little smoked paprika. Stir everything together, then bring it to a boil.

Step 6: Simmer Away

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours. You’ll want to check occasionally to make sure it doesn’t stick to the bottom. It’s a good time to fold laundry, catch up on your favorite show, or simply kick back and relax.

Step 7: Stir in Tomatoes and Cook Rice

Towards the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the diced tomatoes and let them blend with the beans. Meanwhile, cook your long-grain white rice according to the package instructions.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Once the beans are nice and tender, remove the ham hock, shred any meat left on the bone, and return it to the pot. Give your red beans a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve over a generous scoop of rice and watch everyone at the dinner table light up!

Recipe Notes

Dried Red Kidney Beans: The star of the show! These beans have a creamy texture when cooked, plus they hold their shape beautifully.
Smoked Ham Hock: This adds a depth of smoky flavor that really makes the dish.
Smoked Sausage: Choose your favorite. Andouille sausage is a classic choice.
Vegetable Shortening: This is used for sautéing the vegetables. You can use any cooking oil you prefer.
Cajun Seasoning Blend: You can purchase a blend or make your own. It usually consists of paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
Hot Sauce: A splash is all you need, but feel free to add more if you like it spicy!

Recipe Variations

Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat, and try using vegetable broth and smoked paprika for flavor. You can also add more veggies like zucchini and carrots.
Leftovers Twist: Turn your leftovers into a filling burrito or a hearty quesadilla. Just add some cheese and wrap!
Over the Top: Top your red beans and rice with crispy fried onions for a delightful crunch.

Conclusion

With its rich heritage and comforting flavors, Authentic New Orleans Red Beans and Rice is a dish that warms the soul. Whether shared among family on a Sunday evening or enjoyed as a comforting weekday meal, this recipe holds a special place in my heart and on my dinner table.

The process may take a little time, but trust me, the outcome is worth every minute.

So, roll up your sleeves, gather those ingredients, and embark on this culinary journey with me. Made with love, this dish brings joy not just through taste but through the stories and memories we create while sharing it.

Go ahead, let the aromas fill your kitchen, and enjoy a bowl of nostalgia tonight!

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Authentic New Orleans Red Beans And Rice Recipe – Easy Family Meal

Author: Crystal Ivers Cuisine: Southern Courses: Lunch & Dinner

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 20 mins Cook Time 5 hrs Total Time 5 hrs 20 mins

Servings: 10 Calories: 465 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Ah, New Orleans. The rhythm of jazz, the smell of spices wafting through the air, and let’s not forget the food. Something special about New Orleans Red Beans and Rice speaks to the home cook in me. This recipe isn't just a dish; it's an experience, a tradition, and a comfort wrapped in rice and beans.

Growing up, I remember my grandmother stirring her pot of red beans on a Sunday, filling the house with that warm, enticing aroma. It was not just dinner; it was a family gathering, a celebration. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and richness.

It’s packed with flavor yet easy enough for a weeknight dinner. This dish holds a special place in my heart, and I can’t wait to share it with you!