Get ready to transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Louisiana with this mouthwatering red beans and rice recipe that'll make your kitchen smell like a New Orleans dream! Imagine a dish so rich, so comforting, that it wraps you in a warm culinary embrace with every single bite. Whether you're a spice lover, a comfort food enthusiast, or just someone craving an authentic Cajun experience, Becky's Red Beans and Rice is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Cajun
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup red beans
- 1 cup rice
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Rinse the red beans thoroughly under cold water and drain completely.
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions, minced garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté until vegetables become soft and translucent, approximately 5-6 minutes.
- Add the rinsed red beans to the pot and stir with the sautéed vegetables.
- Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the beans are fully covered. Add salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper for heat and flavor.
- Bring the bean mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While beans are simmering, prepare the rice separately according to package instructions using the remaining chicken broth for additional flavor.
- Check beans for tenderness. They should be soft but not mushy. If needed, continue cooking for a few more minutes.
- Once beans are cooked, taste and adjust seasonings as desired.
- Serve the red beans hot over the prepared rice, creating a classic Cajun-style dish.
Tips
- Bean Preparation: Always rinse your beans thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. Soaking them overnight can help reduce cooking time and improve digestibility.
- Flavor Building: Don't rush the sautéing of onions, garlic, and bell peppers. This step develops a deep, rich flavor base for your entire dish.
- Spice Control: Adjust the cayenne pepper to your heat tolerance. Start with less and add more if you want an extra kick.
- Broth Tip: Using chicken broth instead of water adds an extra layer of flavor to your beans and rice.
- Texture Check: Keep an eye on your beans while simmering. You want them tender but not mushy - they should still hold their shape.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This dish tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make a larger batch for leftovers!
- Serving Suggestion: For an authentic touch, serve with a dash of hot sauce on the side and some crusty French bread.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 65g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 10mg
