Shrimp Red Beans and Rice Recipe

If you're craving a satisfying, flavorful, and comforting recipe , this Shrimp Red Beans and Rice recipe is the perfect choice. It captures the bold, vibrant flavors of New Orleans, featuring tender red kidney beans, juicy shrimp, and a blend of aromatic spices.

Shrimp Red Beans and Rice is a classic recipe that brings a taste of New Orleans right into the kitchen. This comforting recipe blends tender red kidney beans with succulent shrimp, aromatic spices, and rice, creating a satisfying plate that warms the soul. 

History of the Dish

The origins of nola Red Beans and Rice trace back to Creole and Cajun cooking in Louisiana, often associated with Mondays when women would wash clothes and simmer beans on the stove for hours.

Traditionally, the dish included leftover meats like sausage or ham, but the magic truly lies in its rich blend of spices. Over time, as culinary preferences evolved, shrimp became a popular addition, adding a delightful seafood essence that complements the creamy beans.You can try other options like vegetarien red beans and rice or just red beans and rice recipe no meat .

What are the ingredients in rice and red beans recipe?

If you're on the hunt for a hearty, flavorful, and comforting meal, look no further than this Shrimp Red Beans and Rice recipe. This classic recipe brings the vibrant tastes of New Orleans right to your kitchen, combining tender red kidney beans, succulent shrimp, and aromatic spices. To create this delightful dish, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 lb dried red kidney beans (or 6 cups canned beans, rinsed and drained)
• 10 cups water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium sweet onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced

• 2 celery ribs, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1½ teaspoons Cajun seasoning
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

• ½ teaspoon liquid smoke
• 1 dried Thai chili
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 lb large shrimp (31-40 size), defrosted, peeled, and deveined
• Cooked white rice, for serving
• Fresh parsley and green onions for garnish (optional)

Whether enjoyed on a busy weeknight or during a festive gathering, it's a dish that leaves a lasting impression. 

Quality Considerations

Using dried red kidney beans provides a creamy texture and deep flavor that's unmatched by canned varieties. Soaking them overnight ensures they cook evenly and absorb all the wonderful spices. If you're in a pinch, you can opt for canned beans, and I seem to be pinched for a time more often than not.  

• Shrimp: Select fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp; the size 31-40 is ideal for tenderness. Ensure they are peeled and deveined to save time during preparation.

• Spices and Seasonings: Fresh spices elevate the dish. Consider making your own Cajun seasoning blend for a more personalized flavor.

• Liquid Smoke: A little goes a long way in adding depth, so use a reputable brand to enhance the smoky essence without overwhelming the dish.

How to Make Shrimp Red Beans and Rice?

Soak the Beans – Place 1 lb of dried red kidney beans in a large bowl and cover them with water. Let them soak overnight to ensure even cooking and a creamy texture.

Sauté the Vegetables – Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced sweet onion, green bell pepper, celery ribs, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.

Add the Seasonings – Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 1 ½ teaspoons of Cajun seasoning, ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika, and ½ teaspoon of liquid smoke. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to let the spices infuse and blend with the vegetables.

Combine Beans and Liquids – Drain and rinse the soaked beans, then add them to the pot along with 10 cups of water, 1 dried Thai chili, and 2 bay leaves. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil.

Simmer the Beans – Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook the Rice – While the beans simmer, prepare 3 cups of white rice according to the package  . 

Thicken the Beans- After an hour, remove the lid from the beans and continue to cook for another 30 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce. Stir in 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. 

Using a spoon or potato masher, mash some of the beans against the side of the pot to thicken the mixture and create a creamy consistency. Add the Shrimp- Stir in 1 lb of defrosted, peeled, and deveined shrimp. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.

Serve and Garnish- Remove the bay leaves and dried Thai chili from the pot. Serve the flavorful beans and shrimp over a bed of fluffy white rice in individual bowls. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and green onions for a fresh, vibrant finish. Add a dash of hot sauce or a squeeze of lime wedges if desired for an extra kick.

What is good to eat with red beans?

Enhance your dining experience with these serving suggestions:

• Pair with warm cornbread to soak up all the savory juices.
• Serve alongside a crisp coleslaw for a refreshing contrast.
• Add a side of brown rice or farro for a nutty, wholesome twist.
• Complement with grilled andouille sausage or ham hock for meat lovers.

Tips, Tricks, and Alterations

Slow Cooker Method: Add all ingredients, except for the shrimp, to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Add the shrimp in the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Quick Soak Method: If you forgot to soak the beans overnight, you can use the quick soak method. Boil the beans for 2 minutes, then remove from heat and let them sit for 1 hour before cooking.

Alternative Beans: Try using other beans such as black beans, pinto beans, or cannellini beans for a variety of textures and flavors.

Instant Pot Variation: Sauté the vegetables using the sauté function, then add the remaining ingredients (except the shrimp) and cook on high pressure for 45 minutes. Perform a quick release, then add the shrimp and cook on sauté mode until done.

Next-Day Flavor: The flavors develop further overnight, making this dish even tastier the next day

Vegetarian Version: Skip the shrimp and replace it with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based sausage for a delicious vegetarian option.

Is Red Beans and Rice Healthy?

One of the standout features of Shrimp Red Beans and Rice is its impressive protein content. A single serving typically provides:

• 26% of Total Calories from Protein: This translates to about 28 grams of protein, making it a hearty option for those looking to increase their intake.

• 47% of Daily Value: For many individuals, this dish significantly contributes to the daily protein requirement, ideal for muscle repair and overall health.

This makes it especially popular with those engaged in an active lifestyle, offering both flavor and nourishment. Not only is this dish high in protein, but it also offers a variety of essential vitamins and minerals:

• Rich in Fiber: Providing 19% of your Daily Value, it promotes digestive health and keeps you feeling full.
• High in Potassium: Contributing 12% of your Daily Value, beneficial for heart health and muscle function.

These nutritional benefits make Shrimp Red Beans and Rice recipe a smart choice for anyone seeking a wholesome meal without sacrificing flavor!