Red Beans and Rice

Red Beans and Rice is a hearty and flavorful dish that originates from Louisiana Creole cuisine. This comforting one-pot meal can be made with or without meat, but the addition of coconut milk adds a delightful twist to the traditional recipe. With the rich flavors of red beans, rice, and coconut milk, this dish is sure to become a favorite among your family and friends. Best of all, it can be prepared in just about 30 minutes when using cooked beans, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option.

MAKES: 4 to 6 servings

TIME: About 30 minutes with cooked beans

INGREDIENTS:

• 3 cups Red Beans with Meat or Vegetarian Red Beans
• 1 1/2 cups long-grain rice
• 3 cups coconut milk, warmed
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Minced fresh parsley leaves for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a saucepan that can comfortably hold at least double the bulk of the beans, warm the red beans over medium-low heat. If the beans have excess liquid, cook them, stirring frequently, until they are moist but not swimming in liquid.
2. Add the long-grain rice and warm coconut milk to the saucepan with the beans. Cover the saucepan and turn the heat to low. Let it cook for approximately 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. If needed, uncover the saucepan and raise the heat to medium-high, stirring occasionally until the liquid is fully absorbed.
3. Once the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed, season the Red Beans and Rice with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
4. Garnish the dish with minced fresh parsley leaves for a pop of color and added freshness.

VARIATIONS:

• Curried Red Beans with Rice: For a delightful curry twist, use Vegetarian Red Beans or plain cooked red beans. Begin by chopping one small red onion and mincing one tablespoon of fresh ginger. In a small skillet over medium heat, add one tablespoon of butter or neutral oil. Once hot, sauté the onion and ginger until softened, approximately one minute. Stir in two tablespoons of curry powder. Proceed with the recipe, adding the curry mixture from the skillet to the pot in Step 2 when adding the rice and coconut milk. For an extra touch, garnish with minced fresh cilantro.

USES:

• Serve Red Beans and Rice as a satisfying main course for a delicious and wholesome meal.
• Pair it with cornbread or crusty French bread for a classic Southern combination.
• Leftover Red Beans and Rice can be refrigerated and reheated for a quick and tasty lunch the next day.

Red Beans and Rice is a comforting and delectable dish with the rich flavors of red beans, rice, and coconut milk. Whether prepared with meat or as a vegetarian option, this one-pot meal is both hearty and satisfying. In just about 30 minutes, you can have this delicious dish ready to serve, making it an excellent choice for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner. Garnished with fresh parsley for added color and freshness, this Red Beans and Rice recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the rich and savory taste of Louisiana Creole cuisine right at your table! Bon appétit!