18 Red Beans And Rice Recipe Southern Living You Won't Believe The Taste!
Published on: Mar 14, 2024
If you're looking to add some classic Southern flavor to your dinner table, look no further than this delicious red beans and rice recipe. This hearty dish has been a staple in Southern cooking for generations, and for good reason. With its rich and savory flavors, it's sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. And the best part? It's surprisingly simple to make. So get your apron on and let's get cooking!
One of the most beloved dishes in southern cuisine, red beans and rice is a hearty and flavorful meal that has been enjoyed for generations. This classic dish originated in New Orleans and has since spread throughout the southern United States. Made with simple ingredients like red beans, rice, and spices, it is a staple in many households and a favorite at family gatherings and potlucks.
2of 20
Cajun Red Beans and Rice
Main Ingredients: Red Beans, Water, Vegetable Oil, Ham Hocks, Bacon
A spicy twist on the traditional red beans and rice, Cajun red beans and rice is a flavorful and bold dish that will leave your taste buds begging for more. The addition of Cajun seasoning, smoked sausage, and hot sauce adds a kick to this classic dish, making it a must-try for those who love a little heat in their meals.
For a truly authentic taste of the south, try this recipe for southern red beans and rice. Made with bacon, ham hocks, and a medley of spices, this dish is slow-cooked to perfection, allowing all the flavors to meld together for a mouth-watering meal that will transport you straight to the heart of the south.
4of 20
Red Beans and Rice
Main Ingredients: Red Beans, Bacon Grease, Tasso, Yellow Onions, Chopped
A traditional red beans and rice recipe is simple yet satisfying. With a base of red beans and rice, this dish can be personalized with the addition of your favorite meats and spices. From sausage to chicken to shrimp, the possibilities are endless, making it a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many different ways.
5of 20
Southern Kitchen – Red Beans & Rice
Main Ingredients: Red Beans, Chicken Stock, Vidalia Onion, Green Bell
Step into any southern kitchen and you are likely to find a pot of red beans and rice simmering on the stove. This classic dish is a staple in southern cuisine, and for good reason. It is easy to make, budget-friendly, and oh so delicious. Plus, it feeds a crowd, making it perfect for family gatherings and potlucks.
6of 20
Authentic New Orleans Red Beans and Rice
Main Ingredients: Shortening, White Onion, Garlic, Green Bell Pepper
The birthplace of red beans and rice, New Orleans takes this dish to a whole new level. With the addition of ingredients like Andouille sausage, smoked ham, and a splash of hot sauce, this authentic recipe is bursting with flavor and will transport you straight to the streets of the Big Easy.
7of 20
Red Beans & Rice
Main Ingredients: Red Beans, Bacon Grease, Yellow Onion, Green Bell
No matter how you spell it, red beans and rice is a beloved dish that is enjoyed by many. Whether it's served as a main dish or as a side, this dish is hearty, filling, and packed with protein and flavor. Make it your own by adding your favorite meats and spices, and you'll have a meal that will please the whole family.
8of 20
Eric's Best Red Beans & Rice Ever
Main Ingredients: Bacon Fat, Smoked Ham, Smoked Sausage, Yellow Onions
Everyone has their own version of the best red beans and rice, and Eric is no exception. His secret ingredient? A dash of Worcestershire sauce. This simple addition adds a depth of flavor that takes this dish from good to great.
9of 20
Slow Cooker Red Beans and Rice
Main Ingredients: Red Beans, Water, Green Bell Pepper, Medium Onion
For those busy days when you still want a home-cooked meal, this slow cooker red beans and rice recipe is a lifesaver. Simply throw all the ingredients in the slow cooker and let it work its magic while you go about your day. When dinnertime rolls around, you'll have a delicious and comforting meal waiting for you.
10of 20
Red Beans and Rice (Cajun Style)
Main Ingredients: Red Beans, Ham Hocks, Water, Chopped Celery, Finely
Cajun cuisine is known for its bold and spicy flavors, and this red beans and rice recipe is no exception. With the addition of Cajun seasoning, hot sauce, and smoked sausage, this dish is packed with flavor and will leave you feeling satisfied and happy.
11of 20
Collards Stuffed with Red Beans and Rice
Main Ingredients: Cooked Brown Rice, Small Red Beans, Onion, Yellow Bell
For a unique and creative twist on red beans and rice, try this recipe for collards stuffed with red beans and rice. The collard greens are stuffed with a flavorful mix of red beans and rice, creating a delicious and nutritious meal that is perfect for any occasion.
12of 20
Red Beans and Cornbread
Main Ingredients: Polish Sausage, Red Beans, Diced Tomatoes, Chopped
Red beans and cornbread is a classic combination that is simple yet satisfying. The sweetness of the cornbread pairs perfectly with the savory and hearty flavors of red beans and rice, making it a match made in heaven.
13of 20
Slow Cooker Vegan Red Beans and Rice
Main Ingredients: Red Beans, Finely Chopped Onion, Green Pepper, Chopped
For our vegan friends, this slow cooker red beans and rice recipe is a game-changer. Made with plant-based ingredients like kidney beans, bell peppers, and spices, this dish is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for those following a vegan diet.
14of 20
Red Beans and Rice My Way
Main Ingredients: Red Beans, Olive Oil, Minced Garlic, Cooked Rice, Chili
Put your own spin on red beans and rice with this recipe that allows you to make it your way. From the type of beans to the spices used, you can customize this dish to your liking and create a meal that is truly unique and delicious.
15of 20
Rice Cooker Jamaican Rice And Peas.
Main Ingredients: Rice, Coconut Milk, Scallion, Thyme, Red Beans
If you have a rice cooker, then this Jamaican rice and peas recipe is a must-try. With the addition of coconut milk, this dish is creamy and flavorful, and the perfect accompaniment to red beans and rice.
16of 20
Louisiana Red Beans & Rice
Main Ingredients: Red Beans, Cooking Oil, Andouille Sausage, Yellow
Louisiana is known for its delicious and flavorful cuisine, and this red beans and rice recipe is no exception. With a mix of spices and the addition of smoked sausage, this dish is a true taste of the south and is sure to become a family favorite.
17of 20
Grilled Cajun Shrimp with Red Beans and Rice on the...
Main Ingredients: Shrimp, Bell Pepper, Red Onion, Soy Sauce, Olive Oil
Take your red beans and rice to the next level by topping it with grilled Cajun shrimp. The smoky and spicy flavors of the shrimp pair perfectly with the beans and rice, creating a dish that is both elegant and delicious.
18of 20
New Orleans Classic – Instant Pot Red Beans and Rice
Main Ingredients: Andouille Sausage, Smoked Bacon, Onion, Bell Pepper
If you have an Instant Pot, then this recipe for New Orleans-style red beans and rice is a must-try. With the convenience of the Instant Pot, you can have a flavorful and authentic dish in a fraction of the time it would take to cook it on the stovetop.
19of 20
Instant Pot Red Beans and Rice
Main Ingredients: Onion, Bacon, Minced Garlic, Olive Oil, Andouille
Speaking of the Instant Pot, this recipe for red beans and rice is another great option for those who want a quick and easy meal without sacrificing flavor. With the addition of Cajun seasoning and smoked sausage, it is sure to be a hit with the whole family.
20of 20
Kickin' Crockpot Red Beans and Rice
Main Ingredients: Red Beans, Water, Homemade Chicken Stock, Green Bell
If you love a little heat in your meals, then this crockpot red beans and rice recipe is for you. With the addition of jalapenos and hot sauce, this dish has a kick that will satisfy your spicy cravings and leave you wanting more.
The Origins of Red Beans and Rice
The Influence of African and Creole Cuisine
While red beans and rice is now a beloved Southern dish, its roots can be traced back to African and Creole cuisine. Slaves brought from West Africa to the Southern United States brought with them the tradition of cooking red beans and rice on Mondays, a day when they were given off from work. This dish was not only delicious but also easy to make, making it a popular choice for a day of rest. Over time, this dish became a staple in Southern cooking and has since been passed down through generations.
The Role of Red Beans in Southern Cooking
Red beans have long been a staple in Southern cooking. They are not only delicious and versatile, but they are also incredibly affordable. In the past, when meat was not always readily available, red beans were a great source of protein for many families. They were often cooked with leftover scraps of meat, such as ham hocks or sausage, to add flavor and depth to the dish. This frugal yet flavorful approach to cooking is a hallmark of Southern cuisine and is evident in this classic red beans and rice recipe.
Making the Perfect Red Beans and Rice
The Importance of Seasoning
One of the key components of a delicious red beans and rice dish is the seasoning. The combination of spices, herbs, and aromatics is what gives this dish its unique and irresistible flavor. Traditional Southern seasonings such as thyme, bay leaves, and smoked paprika are a must for this recipe. And don't forget the holy trinity of Southern cooking - onions, bell peppers, and celery. These ingredients provide the perfect base for any Southern dish and are essential for a flavorful red beans and rice.
The Magic of Slow Cooking
While red beans and rice may be a simple dish, it requires time and patience to truly develop its full flavor. Slow cooking the red beans allows them to absorb all the delicious flavors of the seasonings and spices, resulting in a rich and hearty dish. This also allows the beans to become incredibly tender and creamy, making for a velvety texture that is sure to please.
Ready to Cook?
Now that you know the history and key components of a delicious red beans and rice dish, it's time to get cooking! This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a large family gathering. So grab your ingredients, put on some good music, and let the aromas of this classic Southern dish fill your home. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you.