Bayou Red Beans And Rice
A hearty Louisiana classic featuring tender red beans simmered with ham and spices, served over fluffy rice—perfect for comforting gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak the dried red kidney beans overnight in water.
- Pour the soaked beans into a large heavy pan or Dutch oven and add 1 quart of water.
- Add the ham bone with ham, chopped onion, chopped celery and leaves, salt, and Tabasco to the pot.
- Simmer uncovered for 3 hours or until the beans are tender, adding water as necessary to keep the beans barely covered.
- Remove the ham bone, cut off the meat, and add it back into the beans.
- Remove 1 cup of beans and mash to a paste, then stir back into the pot to thicken the liquid.
- Serve the beans over hot cooked rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider sautéing the onions and celery in a bit of oil before adding them to the pot. You can substitute smoked sausage for the ham bone if you prefer a different meat flavor. If you like it spicier, increase the Tabasco or add cayenne pepper. This dish also pairs beautifully with Kay'S Vegetable Salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the red beans over fluffy white rice for a classic presentation. A side of cornbread complements the dish well, and a simple green salad can add freshness to the meal. It also goes nicely with Catfish And Slaw Sandwiches for a hearty feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm the beans in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water to loosen them if necessary. You can also microwave them in a covered bowl, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bayou Red Beans And Rice contains roughly 510 calories, with 10g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1495mg per serving (65% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned beans instead of dried?
Yes, you can use canned red kidney beans for a quicker option. If using canned beans, skip the soaking and initial cooking steps, and simply simmer the beans with the other ingredients for about 30 minutes to meld the flavors.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of water. You can add smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a similar smoky flavor. Additionally, use mushrooms for a meaty texture.
What type of rice is best for this dish?
Long-grain white rice is commonly used, as it remains fluffy and absorbs the flavors well. However, you can also use brown rice for a healthier option, though it may require a longer cooking time. Consider serving with cornbread for a comforting meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).