Cajun Red Beans & Rice

It’s getting cooler, and our tastes turn to more savory fare. This one can be made in the crock pot, so it is super easy and convenient. It’s also really inexpensive, and absolutely delicious, courtesy of SuperChef SuperHubs. You already know beans are a great source of protein, so try it and let us know how much you loved it!

1 lb. red kidney beans, rinsed and soaked overnight

1 lb. ham (diced)

1 lb. Andouille sausage (cooked and sliced)

3 medium onions

4 celery stalks

2 green peppers

2 garlic cloves

1 stick of butter

2 bay leaves

Salt and pepper

2 tbsp. red cayenne pepper

Tabasco to taste

Boil beans for five minutes, drain and set aside.  In a large saucepot, melt butter and sauté vegetables and meat.  Add mix to crock pot, and add 8 cups of water. Also add beans, bay leaves, cayenne and Tabasco.  Cover and simmer 6 hours.

Serve over Cajun rice or quinoa.

To prepare Cajun rice:

1 quart hot water

1 cup Basmati rice

1 tablespoon Kosher salt

1 tablespoon Creole seasoning (recipe below or use store-bought)

2 bay leaves (dried or fresh)

Bring water to a boil with bay leaves.  Add the salt, then add rice and stir once. Heat on medium high until boiling.  Partially cover and cook for 9 to 11 minutes (like you would cook pasta) until al dente.  Drain and discard bay leaves.  Add Creole seasoning, mix and serve.

To make Creole seasoning:

1/3 cup Paprika

¼ cup garlic powder

4 tablespoons onion powder

½ cup Kosher salt

1/3 cup fresh ground black pepper

2 tablespoons Cayenne pepper

3 tablespoons white pepper

2 tablespoons dried oregano

2 tablespoons dried basil

Mix all ingredients and store in airtight container.