Red beans and rice is a classic dish that holds a special place in the culinary traditions of the Southern United States, particularly in Louisiana. This hearty and flavorful dish is not only a staple for many families but also a symbol of comfort and community.

Ingredients

• 1 cup of dried red kidney beans, soaked overnight
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
• 4 cups of vegetable broth
• 1 cup of brown rice
• 2 sliced green onions for garnish
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Beans:
   • Drain and rinse the soaked beans. Set aside.
2. Cook the Aromatics:
   • In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Flavor the Beans:
   • Stir in the smoked paprika, dried thyme, cayenne pepper, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper.
   • Add the drained beans to the pot and stir to coat with the spices.
4. Simmer:
   • Pour in the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender. Stir occasionally, adding more broth or water if needed to keep the beans submerged.
5. Cook the Rice:
   • While the beans are simmering, cook the brown rice according to the package instructions.
6. Combine:
   • Once the beans are tender, remove the bay leaf. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
   • Serve the red beans over a bed of brown rice, topped with sliced green onions and chopped parsley for garnish.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

The following nutrition information is approximate and will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes:

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	350
Total Fat	8g
Saturated Fat	1g
Cholesterol	0mg
Sodium	600mg
Total Carbohydrates	58g
Dietary Fiber	12g
Sugars	3g
Protein	12g