How to Make Authentic New Orleans Red Beans and Rice - A Step-by-Step Guide

When it comes to iconic Southern cuisine, few dishes are as beloved and representative as the classic New Orleans red beans and rice. This hearty and flavorful dish has been a staple in Louisiana for centuries, and its origins can be traced back to the city's rich and diverse culinary heritage. From traditional Creole influences to the influence of African, French, and Spanish cuisines, this recipe embodies the true essence of New Orleans cooking.

Despite its humble ingredients, this ...

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Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon shortening, or as needed
  • 1 white onion, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 8 cups water
  • 1 pound dried red beans
  • 1 smoked ham hock
  • 1 pound smoked sausage, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 stalks celery, chopped
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tablespoon Creole seasoning (such as Tony Chachere's®)
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon dried sage
  • 1 dash hot pepper sauce (such as Tabasco®), or to taste (Optional)
  • 3 cups cooked white rice

Information

  • Prep Time: 20 mins
  • Cook Time: 5 hrs 10 mins
  • Total Time: 5 hrs 30 mins
  • Servings: 10

  • Melt shortening in a skillet over medium heat. Cook and stir onion, bell pepper, and garlic in hot shortening until tender, 5 to 7 minutes.
  • Combine water, red beans, and ham hock in a large pot; bring to a boil. Stir onion mixture into the pot; add smoked sausage and celery. Return to a boil. Stir bay leaves, Creole seasoning, thyme, and sage into boiling water. Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer until beans are tender, about 5 hours.
  • Remove and discard ham hock and bay leaves; stir in hot pepper sauce and serve over white rice.
  • Nutrition

    465 cal.

    • Total Fat: 21g
    • Saturated Fat: 7g
    • Cholesterol: 45mg
    • Sodium: 861mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 44g
    • Dietary Fiber: 12g
    • Total Sugars: 3g
    • Protein: 26g
    • Vitamin C: 14mg
    • Calcium: 101mg
    • Iron: 5mg
    • Potassium: 938mg