Red Beans and Rice

Cook's Illustrated (January 2010)

Dutch oven.
Serve over white rice.
Brine beans 8-24 hours.
1 lbs small red beans
4 qt cold water
3 T salt
Medium heat, brown and fully rendered, stirring occasionally, 5-8 min.
4 slices bacon (about 4 oz), chopped fine
Soften, 6-7 min.
1 medium onion, chopped fine (about 1 c)
1 small green bell pepper, chopped fine (about 1/2 c)
1 celery rib, chopped fine (about 1/2 c)
Until fragrant, ~30 sec.
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 t thyme leaves
1 t sweet paprika
2 bay leaves
1/4 t cayenne
1/4 t black pepper
Bring to boil, simmer vigorously, stirring occasionally, until just soft and liquid begins to thicken, 45-60 min.
previous brined beans, drained and rinsed
3 c chicken broth
6 c water
It is important to simmer vigorously. That will cause the beans to knock together, releasing starch that makes the sauce thick and creamy.
  • Prepare rice.
  • Cook until liquid is thick, beans fully tender and creamy, 30 min.
  • Begin seasoning to taste. It'll probably take about 1/2 - 3/4 t.
8 oz andouille sausage, halved lengthwise and sliced 1/4 inch
1 t red wine vinegar
salt
  • Season with salt.
  • Serve over rice, garnish with scallions.
  • Pass hot sauce separately.
3 scallions, sliced thin
hot sauce