Quick Red Beans And Rice Recipe – Dish Journal

A steaming bowl of red beans and rice feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Picture this: it’s a bustling summer BBQ, and you’ve got a spread of tantalizing dishes laid out. You serve up smoky grilled chicken and a vibrant Italian pasta salad made with chickpeas and fresh veggies. 

But here’s the kicker: the real star of the show is that soothing, hearty bowl of quick red beans and rice. It pairs beautifully with just about anything. Trust me, folks will be coming back for seconds!

What is Quick Red Beans and Rice?

Quick red beans and rice is a simplified version of the traditional dish popular in Louisiana cuisine. While the classic might take hours of cooking, this version offers rich flavors in a fraction of the time. 

You can enjoy the goodness of creamy beans mingling with savory sausage, delightful spices, and fluffy rice—all cooked in one pot. It’s comfort food that doesn’t require a culinary degree to master!

The Ingredients

Let’s dive into the heart of the recipe. Here’s what you need to whip up this delicious meal:

• 1 ½ cups long grain white rice
• 3 green onions, chopped
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken stock
• 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 tsp hot sauce
• 1/4 tsp black pepper, freshly ground
• 1/4 tsp ground cayenne pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic salt
• 1/2 tsp onion flakes
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 14 oz. smoked sausage
• 3 15oz. cans of red kidney beans
• 1 Tbsp vegetable oil

How to Make Quick Red Beans and Rice?

This dish truly shines with a foolproof method laid out in simple steps. In the kitchen, we’ll layer flavors, and voila! A delicious meal awaits.

Now, let’s dive into the details.

Step-by-step Directions

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Start by tossing in the chopped onions, bell pepper, and celery. Stir occasionally until they become tender and aromatic.

Step 2: Add the Sausage and Garlic

Introduce the sliced smoked sausage to the pot.
Cook until it’s browned, which should take around 5 minutes. Now, throw in the minced garlic, and sauté for another minute. The kitchen will smell practically irresistible!

Step 3: Spice Things Up

Sprinkle in those dried herbs and spices.
Toss in the thyme, basil, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, black pepper, garlic salt, and onion flakes. Stir everything together to coat the ingredients well. The colors and aromas will start to dance!

Step 4: Stir in the Rice

Add the rice to the pot.
Mix it all together so that the rice picks up some of those beautiful spices. It’s crucial to keep stirring for about 2 minutes.

Step 5: Pour in the Liquids

Pour in the chicken stock and Worcestershire sauce.
Add the hot sauce too, stirring everything well. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Step 6: Incorporate the Beans

Add the red kidney beans—drained and rinsed.
Stir them into the mixture. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.

Step 7: Let it Simmer

Allow the dish to simmer for about 20 minutes.
Keep an eye on it to ensure the rice cooks properly and absorbs all those lovely flavors. Once done, turn off the heat.

Step 8: Finish and Serve

Garnish with chopped green onions and serve it up hot.
The rice should be fluffy, and the beans creamy. Enjoy your delicious creation!

Notes

Here are some tips for making this dish even better:

• Rice Type: While long grain white rice is classic, feel free to experiment with brown rice for added nutrition. Just increase the cooking time.
  
• Make Ahead: This dish tastes incredible the next day. It allows the flavors to deepen and meld beautifully.
  
• Spice Level: Adjust the hot sauce according to your taste. A little kick can intensify the dish without overpowering it.
  
• Vegetables Galore: Want to sneak in more veggies? Add chopped carrots or a handful of spinach right before serving.
  
• Protein Options: While sausage brings a smoky vibe, lean chicken or turkey sausage is a lighter alternative.
  

Storage Tips

Storing your red beans and rice is easy. Just follow these tips:

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a meal-sized container. It can last up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge before reheating.
  
• Reheating: Add a splash of chicken stock when reheating to restore moisture.
  

Serving Suggestions

Here are tasty ideas to elevate your meal:

• Top with Fresh Herbs: Chopped cilantro or parsley sprinkled over the top adds a fresh contrast.
  
• Creamy Addition: Serve with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to mellow the spices.
  
• Serve with Cornbread: A side of freshly baked cornbread pairs perfectly, soaking up all the goodness.
  
• Optional Side Salad: Accompany it with a simple green salad dressed in vinaigrette for a refreshing crunch.
  
• Enjoy with Hot Sauce: Place a bottle of hot sauce on the table for those who crave more heat.
  

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Quick Red Beans and Rice?

If you’re looking for variations or substitutes, consider these options:

• Turkey Sausage: Lean turkey sausage is a healthier alternative that still satisfies without sacrificing flavor.
  
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute with smoked tempeh or mushrooms for a meat-free version that still feels hearty.
  
• Canned Beans: If you’re tight on time, using canned beans directly can speed up your prep time.
  
• Quinoa Instead of Rice: Go for a quinoa base to add protein and a nutty flavor; just adjust the liquid accordingly.
  
• Different Beans: Try using black beans or pinto beans instead for a different flavor profile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Quick red beans and rice is the epitome of comfort food that’s both simple and satisfying. It’s perfect for easy weeknight dinners or a gathering with friends. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility—feel free to experiment with ingredients and flavors. Celebrate the joy of cooking and bring happiness to your table with every bite.

So, what will you pair with your bowl of quick red beans and rice? Whatever the choice, enjoy the journey in your kitchen as you create this delicious meal. Happy cooking!

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