Ingredients

1 pound dry red kidney beans
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
12 ounces andouille sausage , diced
1 cup finely diced onion
3/4 cup chopped celery
3/4 cup poblano peppers
4 cloves garlic , minced
2 quarts chicken broth , or more as needed
1 smoked ham hock
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper , or to taste
hot sauce to taste
4 cups cooked white rice
2 tablespoons chopped green onion , or to taste
Red beans and rice is a classic dish in the southern United States, especially in Louisiana. It's a staple dish during Mardi Gras celebrations and a comfort food for many. The combination of spicy and smoky flavors with the creaminess of the beans and the fluffiness of the rice makes this dish a crowd-pleaser.

Instructions

1.Rinse and soak the red beans overnight or for at least 8 hours.
2.Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat and add diced andouille sausage, onion, celery, poblano peppers, and garlic. Cook until vegetables are softened and lightly browned.
3.Drain beans and add them to the pot. Pour in enough chicken broth to cover the beans by about 2 inches.
4.Add in the smoked ham hock, bay leaves, black pepper, thyme, and cayenne pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 hours or until beans are tender and the sauce has thickened.
5.Remove hock, strip and chop the meat, and add it back to the pot. Add hot sauce to taste, and serve with cooked white rice and chopped green onions on top.

PROS

Chef John’s Red Beans and Rice recipe is a delicious and hearty meal that’s perfect for a cozy dinner.

The andouille sausage gives a smoky and savory flavor to the dish while the red beans add protein and fiber.

It’s easy to make and can be prepared in advance for a quick and satisfying meal.

CONS

This dish can be high in sodium due to the use of chicken broth and smoked ham hock.

It’s recommended to use low-sodium broth and to soak the beans in water before cooking to reduce the sodium content.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Red beans and rice are a great source of plant-based protein and fiber.
They are also rich in essential nutrients such as iron, potassium, and folate.
The dish has a low glycemic index, which means it helps regulate blood sugar levels and promotes fullness.

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