Cajun Style Beans, Rice And Ham
A hearty Cajun-inspired dish combining flavorful beans, rice, and ham with bold spices and fresh vegetables, perfect for comforting family meals or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt margarine.
- Add chopped onion, 1/2 cup of chopped green onion, chopped green pepper, and minced garlic.
- Cook for about 5 minutes until vegetables are soft, stirring frequently.
- Add chicken broth, pinto beans, salt, black pepper, bay leaves, basil, hot red pepper sauce, and diced ham.
- Simmer uncovered for 30 to 45 minutes, stirring often.
- At the end of cooking, mash some of the softest beans against the side of the pan to form a thick sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the mix. If you don't have pinto beans, you can substitute with black beans or kidney beans. To enhance the flavor, try using smoked ham or adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can also complement the dish well, similar to what you'll find in Chicken A La Suisse.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cajun Style Beans, Rice And Ham over a bed of fluffy rice, garnished with additional chopped green onions for a pop of color. It pairs well with cornbread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, complement it with Grandma Wright'S Squash Dressing or a side of collard greens.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen the consistency. You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cajun Style Beans, Rice And Ham contains roughly 35 calories, with 1g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 529mg per serving (23% 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 dried beans instead of canned?
Absolutely! If using dried pinto beans, soak them overnight and adjust the cooking time accordingly. You'll need to cook them until they're tender before adding them to the pot with the other ingredients, which can take about an hour or more depending on the bean's age.
What can I substitute for chicken broth?
If you prefer a vegetarian option, vegetable broth works perfectly as a substitute. You can also use water, but the dish may lack some flavor. For a richer taste, try using homemade chicken stock or even beef broth for a different twist.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, this dish actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. You can prepare it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to reheat thoroughly before serving, and consider making extra rice to serve fresh on the side.
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).