Red Beans
Red Beans Recipe - A Hearty Vegetarian Dish from the USA
Vegetarian dietIntroduction
Red beans are a classic Southern comfort food that is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy meal. This recipe for creamy red beans with sausage is a delicious twist on the traditional red beans and rice dish, adding a rich and savory flavor to the dish.
History
Red beans have been a staple in Southern cuisine for centuries, with roots in African, Native American, and European culinary traditions. The combination of red beans with sausage is a popular variation that adds a depth of flavor and richness to the dish.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- Slice the sausage into patties (it is easier to slice if it is frozen and partially thawed in the microwave). Fry the patties until they are crispy, almost burned. Drain any excess grease. Add onions and sauté them. Then, add red beans, water, and bay leaves. Season the mixture to taste. Let it simmer for about 20–30 minutes. This recipe is quick, easy, and delicious.
Variations
- Substitute the sausage with smoked turkey sausage for a lighter option.
- Add diced bell peppers or celery for extra flavor and texture.
- Use Cajun seasoning or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Slicing the sausage into patties and frying them until crispy adds a delicious texture to the dish.
- Sautéing the onions before adding the red beans helps to enhance their flavor and sweetness.
- Letting the mixture simmer for 20-30 minutes allows the flavors to meld together and creates a rich and creamy consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the creamy red beans with sausage over rice or with a side of cornbread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Cooking Techniques
Slicing the sausage into patties and frying them until crispy.
- Sautéing the onions before adding the red beans.
- Letting the mixture simmer for 20-30 minutes to meld the flavors together.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use any type of sausage or protein of your choice.
- Substitute the Blue Runner creamy red beans with regular red beans or kidney beans.
Make Ahead Tips
This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Presentation Ideas
Garnish the creamy red beans with sausage with chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness.
Pairing Recommendations
Serve this dish with a side of collard greens, coleslaw, or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Calories: 350 per serving
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates: 30g per serving
Fats
Total Fat: 15g per serving
Proteins
Protein: 20g per serving
Vitamins and minerals
This dish is a good source of iron, vitamin C, and potassium.
Alergens
This recipe contains pork sausage, which may be an allergen for some individuals.
Summary
This dish is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.
Summary
Creamy red beans with sausage is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy meal. With a rich and savory flavor, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
How did I get this recipe?
The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a magnet. It was a warm summer day, and I had just finished helping my neighbor Mrs. Jenkins with her garden. As a thank you, she invited me into her home for a glass of lemonade.
As I sat at her kitchen table, enjoying the refreshing drink, my eyes wandered to a worn old cookbook sitting on the shelf. Mrs. Jenkins noticed my interest and chuckled, saying, "Ah, you have a love for cooking, don't you?" I nodded eagerly, always eager to learn new recipes and techniques.
She opened the cookbook to a page marked with a faded pink bookmark. "This here is my favorite recipe for red beans," she said, pointing to the ingredients list. "I learned it from my grandmother, who learned it from her grandmother. It's been passed down through the generations in my family, and now I'm passing it on to you."
I felt a surge of excitement as Mrs. Jenkins began to explain the steps to making the dish. She spoke with such passion and love for the recipe, and I could tell it held a special place in her heart. I listened intently, taking mental notes of each ingredient and technique she mentioned.
After she finished explaining, Mrs. Jenkins handed me a handwritten copy of the recipe. "Try making it at home," she said with a smile. "I have no doubt you'll love it as much as I do."
That night, I eagerly gathered the ingredients and set to work in my own kitchen. The aroma of the beans simmering on the stove filled the air, reminding me of Mrs. Jenkins' cozy kitchen. As I took my first bite of the finished dish, I was transported back to that warm summer day, feeling a connection to her and her family through the recipe.
Over the years, I've made red beans countless times, each batch better than the last. I've tweaked the recipe here and there, adding my own personal touch to it. But the essence of the dish remains the same, a comforting reminder of the day I first learned it from Mrs. Jenkins.
I've shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition just as Mrs. Jenkins did with me. Each time I make it, I think of her and the bond we formed over a simple dish of red beans. It's amazing how food can bring people together, creating lasting memories and connections that span generations.
As I sit here now, savoring a bowl of red beans made with love and nostalgia, I can't help but feel grateful for the recipe that brought Mrs. Jenkins into my life. It may just be a dish of beans, but to me, it's a symbol of friendship, tradition, and the joy of cooking. And for that, I will always cherish it.
Categories
| American Recipes | Azuki Bean Recipes | Creole Recipes | Creole Vegetarian | Sausage Recipes |