Red Beans and Rice: A Comforting Crockpot Delight
Home Made Red Beans and Rice Recipe, There’s something about a pot of red beans and rice simmering away that brings a sense of comfort and hominess to any kitchen. This simple yet flavorful dish is perfect for those days when you need to throw something together quickly in the morning and come home to a hearty, satisfying meal. The ease of preparation, combined with the delicious outcome, makes this recipe a go-to for busy families and anyone who loves a good, hearty dish.
Discovering a New Favorite
Home Made Red Beans and Rice Recipe
I stumbled upon this red beans and rice recipe over at Our Best Bites, and it has quickly become a household favorite. In just the past month, I’ve already made it twice! The simplicity of the recipe, coupled with its rich, satisfying flavor, makes it a dish I highly recommend. It’s perfect for those days when you know you’ll be too busy to cook dinner in the evening but still want something warm and delicious waiting for you.
Ingredients and Preparation
Ingredients
To make Kate’s Red Beans and Rice, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb bag of dry red beans
- 6 cups of water
- 5 chicken bouillon cubes
- 1 lb Hillshire Farms smoked sausage, chopped (you can omit this or use less, but we love the full pound in ours)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon Cajun or Creole seasoning
- 3/4 teaspoon cumin
- 3/4 teaspoon coriander
- 3/4 teaspoon oregano
- 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
Method of Recipe
1. Preparing the Beans
Start by sorting through the dry red beans, discarding any debris or bad beans. Rinse them thoroughly under cold water.
2. Combining Ingredients
In your crockpot, combine the rinsed beans with 6 cups of water, 5 chicken bouillon cubes, chopped smoked sausage, chopped onion, minced garlic, and all the spices: Cajun or Creole seasoning, cumin, coriander, oregano, cinnamon, paprika, and Old Bay seasoning. Stir everything together to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
3. Cooking
Set your crockpot to high and cook the mixture for about 5 hours or until the beans are tender. The cooking time can vary depending on your crockpot, so it’s a good idea to check the beans for doneness around the 4-hour mark.
4. Preparing the Rice
When the beans are almost ready, prepare the rice. Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan. Once boiling, add 2 cups of rice. Bring the mixture back to a boil, stir, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Let the rice simmer for 20 minutes or until it’s fully cooked and the water is absorbed.
5. Serving
To serve, spoon the cooked beans over the rice. In our house, we like to sprinkle a little grated cheese on top and mix it all together. This adds a delightful creaminess and extra flavor to the dish.
Tips and Variations
Customizing the Sausage
While the recipe calls for Hillshire Farms smoked sausage, you can customize it to your liking. Andouille sausage or chorizo would add a nice kick if you prefer something spicier. For a leaner option, turkey sausage works well too.
Spice Levels
The seasoning in this recipe is well-balanced for a mild to moderately spicy flavor. If you love heat, consider adding more Cajun seasoning or a dash of hot sauce to the mix. Conversely, if you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the amount of seasoning slightly.
Vegetarian Version
For a vegetarian version, simply omit the sausage and use vegetable bouillon cubes instead of chicken. You might also want to add some extra vegetables like bell peppers or celery for added flavor and nutrition.
Additional Toppings
Beyond grated cheese, there are plenty of other toppings that can elevate this dish. Chopped green onions, fresh parsley, or a dollop of sour cream can all add freshness and complexity to the meal.
The Magic of One-Pot Meals
One of the greatest advantages of this red beans and rice recipe is the convenience of using a crockpot. One-pot meals are a lifesaver for busy days. You can prepare everything in the morning, set it, and forget it. By the time you get home, the house is filled with the tantalizing aroma of a home-cooked meal, and all that’s left to do is cook the rice and serve.
Nutritional Benefits
Red beans are an excellent source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. They are particularly high in iron, which is crucial for maintaining healthy blood cells, and magnesium, which supports muscle and nerve function. Combining beans with rice creates a complete protein, providing all the essential amino acids your body needs.
Cultural Significance
Red beans and rice is a staple dish in many Southern homes, particularly in Louisiana. Traditionally served on Mondays, this dish has roots in the state’s Creole and Cajun heritage. In the past, Mondays were laundry days, and this dish was ideal because it could simmer on the stove all day with minimal attention, allowing busy homemakers to focus on their chores.
Personal Reflection
I have always been drawn to recipes that are both simple and full of flavor, and this red beans and rice recipe hits all the right notes. It reminds me of the comforting, home-cooked meals my grandmother used to make. Every time I prepare this dish, it brings back fond memories of family gatherings and the warmth of a shared meal.
Cooking is often about more than just feeding ourselves; it’s about creating memories, connecting with our heritage, and nourishing both body and soul. This red beans and rice recipe embodies all of these aspects. It’s a humble dish that has stood the test of time, beloved for its simplicity, versatility, and heartiness.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a new recipe to add to your rotation, I highly recommend giving this red beans and rice a try. It’s perfect for those busy days when you need a set-it-and-forget-it meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor. The combination of tender beans, savory sausage, and perfectly cooked rice is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters in your household. Home Made Red Beans and Rice Recipe.
Home Made Red Beans and Rice Recipe, So next time you’re planning your weekly menu, consider adding this delightful dish to the list. It’s a comforting, flavorful, and nutritious meal that you can feel good about serving to your family. Enjoy, and happy cooking!
Until next time, have a great time in the kitchen! #RedBeansrecipe #ricerecipe
Food Effects of Making the Red Beans and rice recipe at home. more about food details on twitter.