Ingredients
1 pound dried red beans (rinsed and soaked overnight): The star ingredient of the dish.
1 pound smoked sausage (sliced): Adds a smoky depth of flavor.
1 medium onion (chopped): For sweetness and texture.
1 bell pepper (chopped): Adds color and crunch.
2 stalks celery (chopped): For added flavor and crunch.
4 cloves garlic (minced): For an aromatic kick.
4 cups chicken broth: The base for the dish.
2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning: For a spicy, authentic flavor.
1 teaspoon dried thyme: For earthy notes.
1 bay leaf: Adds depth to the flavor.
Salt and pepper: To taste.
2 cups cooked white rice: To serve with the beans.
Chopped green onions (optional, for garnish): For freshness.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by rinsing and soaking the dried red beans overnight. Chop the onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
In the slow cooker, combine the soaked and drained red beans, smoked sausage, chopped onion, bell pepper, celery, minced garlic, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, dried thyme, bay leaf, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to mix all the ingredients thoroughly.
Step 3: Cook the Beans
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beans are tender and creamy.
Step 4: Serve
Once cooked, remove the bay leaf and taste the dish, adjusting the seasoning as necessary. Serve the red beans over cooked white rice, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 6H