AUTHENTIC LOUISIANA RED BEANS & RICE

AUTHENTIC LOUISIANA RED BEANS & RICE

1 lb. dry kidney beans
¼ cup olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper chopped
2 Tbsp. minced garlic
2 stalks celery, chopped
6 cups water
2 bay leaves
½ tsp. cayenne pepper
1 tsp. dried thyme
¼ tsp. dried sage
1 Tbsp. dried parsley
1 tsp. Cajun seasoning
1 lb. andouille sausage, sliced
4 cups water
2 cups long grain rice

Rinse beans and then soak in a large pot of water overnight.

In a skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Cook onion, bell pepper, garlic, and celery in olive oil for 3-4 minutes.

Rinse beans, and transfer to a large pot with 6 cups water. Stir cooked vegetables into beans. Season with bay leaves, cayenne pepper, thyme, sage, parsley, and Cajun seasoning. Bring to a boil, and then reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer for 2-1/2 hours.

Stir sausage into beans, and continue to simmer for 30 minutes.

Meanwhile, prepare the rice. In a saucepan, bring water and rice to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes. Serve beans over steamed white rice.

Yield: 8 servings.