Easy Recipe for Red Beans and Rice

Red beans and rice is a classic Creole dish that is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. This recipe is simple to follow and produces a flavorful and satisfying dish that the whole family will love.

Ingredients

• 1 pound dried red beans
• 1 smoked ham hock or tasso ham
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup water

Instructions

1. Rinse the beans and place them in a large pot or slow cooker. Cover with water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until the beans are tender.
2. While the beans are cooking, brown the ham hock or tasso ham in a large skillet over medium heat. Remove the ham hock from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the onion, garlic, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the oregano, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper to the skillet and cook for 1 minute more.
5. Drain the beans and add them to the skillet with the vegetables. Add the chicken broth and water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until the beans are cooked through.
6. Add the ham hock or tasso ham to the pot and simmer for an additional 30 minutes.
7. Serve the red beans and rice with your favorite sides, such as rice, cornbread, or salad.

FAQ

Q: What can use instead of a ham hock or tasso ham?

A: You can use any smoked meat, such as smoked turkey, smoked sausage, or smoked pork shoulder. You can also use a ham bone or a piece of smoked ham.

Q: Can make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time and reheat it before serving. To reheat, simply add the red beans and rice to a pot or slow cooker and heat on low until warmed through.

Q: Can freeze this recipe?

A: Yes, you can freeze this recipe. To freeze, simply cool the red beans and rice completely and then store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply place the red beans and rice in the refrigerator overnight or in the microwave for a few minutes.

Q: What are some other ways to serve red beans and rice?

A: Red beans and rice can be served with a variety of sides, such as rice, cornbread, salad, or vegetables. You can also add some protein to the dish, such as chicken, pork, or sausage.

Pros of Eating Red Beans and Rice

• Red beans and rice are a healthy and affordable meal option.
• Red beans are a good source of fiber, protein, and iron.
• Rice is a good source of carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.
• Red beans and rice are a versatile dish that can be customized to your liking.

Tips for Making Red Beans and Rice

• Use a good quality ham hock or tasso ham for the best flavor.
• Soak the beans overnight before cooking to reduce cooking time.
• Add the vegetables to the skillet towards the end of cooking so they don’t overcook.
• Serve the red beans and rice with your favorite sides.