Red Beans With Rice
A hearty, flavorful dish of seasoned red beans and smoky ham simmered to perfection, served over rice—perfect for comforting family meals or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place all ingredients except the rice in a large kettle and simmer for 3 to 4 hours or until the gravy thickens.
- Remove ham bone, garlic cloves, bay leaf, and pepper pods before serving over rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked ham or adding a splash of liquid smoke. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ham with diced mushrooms or smoked tofu. You can also add some chopped carrots or zucchini for added nutrition, similar to the Zucchini Squash Onion Bake. Adjust the hot sauce to your heat preference for a customized kick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the red beans and ham over fluffy cooked rice for a hearty meal. Pair with cornbread or a fresh green salad for a complete dinner. For a comforting lunch, enjoy leftovers with a side of Baked Pinto Beans. This dish also works well with a drizzle of hot sauce for extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave in a covered bowl, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Red Beans With Rice contains roughly 523 calories, with 19g protein, 117g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (184% of the Daily Value), and calcium (142% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2348mg per serving (102% 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?
Yes, you can use dried red kidney beans. Soak them overnight and cook them until tender before adding to the recipe. This may take an additional hour of cooking time, but it enhances the dish's flavor and texture.
What can I substitute for ham?
If you prefer not to use ham, try smoked turkey or a plant-based protein like tempeh for a similar smoky flavor. You could also use sausage or bacon for a different twist, depending on your dietary preferences.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To increase the heat, add more hot sauce or include diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper during cooking. For an extra kick, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes. Adjust to taste, as everyone has their own spice tolerance.
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).