Red Beans And Brown Rice
Hearty red beans and brown rice combine smoky ham, spices, and optional pepperoni for a comforting, flavorful meal perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Follow directions on the bean package for soaking the beans, either overnight or by quick-soak method.
- Pour off the soaking water.
- Cover the beans with about 2 quarts of fresh water.
- Add the ham bone and chopped onion to the pot.
- Simmer gently, covered, for about 2 hours.
- Add 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, chili powder, and sliced pepperoni if desired.
- Continue to simmer gently for about 1 1/2 hours.
- Follow directions on the rice package to cook the rice.
- Serve the beans over the cooked rice.
- Very good served with cornbread and a salad.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding smoked sausage or diced ham in place of the optional pepperoni. If using canned beans, adjust cooking times accordingly. To enhance the dish, you can add a bay leaf while simmering the beans. If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the chili powder or add chopped jalapeños. This dish pairs beautifully with Smokey Country Style Ribs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the red beans over a bed of fluffy brown rice for a hearty meal. This dish is excellent alongside cornbread and a fresh salad for a complete dinner. For added flavor, a dollop of sour cream or sliced green onions on top can elevate the presentation. It also makes a fantastic filling for burritos or tacos, showcasing American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm the beans and rice separately on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water to avoid sticking. You can also heat them in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through. Freezing is an option too; portion into containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Red Beans And Brown Rice contains roughly 591 calories, with 22g protein, 82g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (75% of the Daily Value), protein (45% of the Daily Value), and iron (40% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1438mg per serving (63% 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 dry beans?
Yes, you can use canned kidney beans to save time. If you opt for canned, simply rinse and drain them, and add them in the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will prevent them from becoming too soft while still allowing them to absorb the flavors.
What if I don't have a ham bone?
If you don't have a ham bone, you can use diced ham or smoked sausage for flavor. Alternatively, adding a tablespoon of liquid smoke can replicate the smoky taste without the bone. Just ensure to adjust the salt levels accordingly, as these substitutions can be salty.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, skip the ham bone and use vegetable broth instead of water for cooking the beans. Add extra spices or smoked paprika to enhance the flavor. You can also incorporate more vegetables like bell peppers or celery to give it a hearty texture.
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).