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Cajun Red Beans Rice

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A hearty and flavorful Cajun classic featuring tender red beans simmered with spices and served over fluffy rice. Perfect for a comforting dinner packed with bold Southern flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound dried red kidney beans, soaked overnight and drained
  • 1/2 pound smoked sausage, sliced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 3 stalks celery, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 cups cooked white rice
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Chopped green onions and parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the smoked sausage slices and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, sauté onion, bell pepper, and celery until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Add the soaked and drained kidney beans, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, thyme, bay leaves, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Stir to combine.
  5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours or until beans are tender, stirring occasionally.
  6. Return the browned sausage to the pot and season with salt and black pepper. Simmer uncovered for 15 more minutes to thicken the sauce.
  7. Remove bay leaves and discard. Spoon red beans mixture over cooked white rice.
  8. Garnish with chopped green onions and parsley before serving.

Notes

For extra depth of flavor, serve with a splash of hot sauce and crusty French bread on the side.

Find it online: https://justhealthybites.com/cajun-red-beans-rice/