3 ingredient red beans and rice

Red beans and rice is a recipe deeply rooted in the culinary traditions of Louisiana, often associated with the Creole and Cajun cultures. It’s believed to have originated in the 18th century, primarily among working-class families. 

The homemade red beans and rice recipe made its way into kitchens when families sought to create a filling meal from budget-friendly ingredients. Traditionally cooked on Mondays, this dish allowed cooks to utilize leftover meat from Sunday dinners. 

The incorporation of red kidney beans and rice symbolizes resourcefulness, transforming simple ingredients into comfort food. Beyond its deliciousness, red beans and rice represents community and tradition in Louisiana. During Mardi Gras, it’s a popular choice at gatherings and celebrations. 

What kind of beans should I use?

Beans themselves are not only packed with nutrients, but are an excellent source of vegetarian protein and fiber. Do a little research to find which one you prefer. However, if  you’re looking for a more traditional rice and beans I would choose a red bean (like this, not kidney beans), black beans, small white beans, or pinto beans. For a quick recipe , you can use try canned red beans and rice recipe.

What kind of rice should I use?

To get the maximum benefit of nutritional benefits from rice, you need to choose the right rice. The main rice options to choose from are some type of white rice, brown rice, or wild rice. Brown rice and wild rice (not really rice but a type of wild grass, who knew?!)  are your best options as they contain more fiber and nutrients than white rice.

Brown rice carries a minimal amount more protein than white rice while wild rice has double the amount of protein. So, if you’re trying to add some protein go with wild rice. That being said, wild rice can be an interesting flavor choice for rice and beans . 

So I would generally stick with brown rice like I do in this dish. Feel free to experiment and find which rice works for you, but keep in mind different types of rice will take longer/shorter to cook and need slightly different amounts of water.

Benefits of Red Beans and Rice recipe 

Beans keep you full from the high fiber and protein content! One cup of cooked black beans serves up about 15 grams of fiber and 15 grams of protein. Did you know beans and rice make a complete protein, providing you with all 9 essential amino acids? 

Prettty awesome, especially for all my vegetarian friends! Enjoying red beans and rice not only satisfies taste buds but also nourishes the body effectively!

Ingredients needed for the recipe 

1 can red beans : The star of this dish is undoubtedly the red beans. Typically, canned red kidney beans are used for convenience, but dried beans are also a great option if you have a little more time on your hands.

1 cup rice (cooked) : Long-grain white rice is commonly used due to its light, fluffy texture. However, you can also select alternatives like brown rice or even jasmine rice, which adds a delightful aroma. Some important points to consider:Cook rice separately or in a pot along with the beans.

1 can rotel . With just these three ingredients, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that showcases the simplicity and richness of red beans and rice recipe !

How to make red beans and rice recipe 

To begin, it’s time to cook your red beans. If you're using canned red kidney beans, simply drain and rinse them. For dried beans, soak them overnight and boil until tender. 

Add the cooked or canned beans, and 1 can of Rotel (or your favorite brand of diced tomatoes and green chilies). Add toppings (or not) and serve! While the beans are simmering, move on to cooking the rice . 

Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in another saucepan , Add 1 cup of your chosen rice (white, brown, etc.), stir, reduce to a simmer, and cover. Cook for about 20 minutes (or as per the rice instructions) until all the water is absorbed. This simple process showcases how easy it is to create a warm, comforting dish that’s bursting with flavor!

Serving Suggestions

Garnishing can elevate your red beans and rice from a simple meal to an exciting dish. Here are some delightful options to consider:

• Fresh Green Onions: Sliced green onions add a fresh crunch and a hint of flavor.
• Hot Sauce: A few drops of your favorite hot sauce will bring heat and depth.
• Chopped Parsley or Cilantro: Both herbs add a pop of color and fresh aroma.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop can add creaminess and balance out the spices.

These garnishes not only enhance the visual appeal but also contribute to the flavor profile, making your dish irresistible. Pairing side dishes can create a well-rounded meal experience. Here are some traditional sides that complement red beans and rice beautifully:

• Cornbread: A classic Southern pairing, its sweetness balances the savory beans.
• Collard Greens: Steamed or sautéed, these nutrient-rich greens add a healthy touch.
• Fried Plantains: Their sweetness contrasts nicely with the spiced flavors of the dish.
• Fried Catfish or Chicken: Offering a crispy texture, these proteins add substance to your meal.

These options provide a delightful way to round out your recipe and make it even more enjoyable!

Vegan or Vegetarian Options recipe 

Making red beans vegetarian recipe or vegan is a breeze! Simply follow these tips:

• Skip the Sausage: Use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth for added flavor.
• Coconut Oil: Substitute this for butter to keep it rich and delicious.
• Additional Veggies: Amp up your dish with added veggies like zucchini or spinach for extra nutrition and color.

These simple changes ensure everyone can enjoy this classic dish without sacrificing flavor!

Are rice and beans gluten-free?

Rice and beans themselves are gluten-free. If you use canned beans you need to check the ingredients to be safe. Also, if someone you know is allergic to gluten or highly sensitive you will want to check that the spices you use do not contain gluten or have the potential for cross-contamination.

Are rice and beans healthy?

Rice and beans are both carbohydrates so one might think they aren’t the best dietary choice, but let’s look at these ingredients a little closer. The truth is we need to look at the nutritional value in both rice and beans and make an informed choice based on personal preference.

One thing that is controversial is the discussion that rice and beans combine to make a complete protein. While some believe they must be combined to make a complete protein, there are other sources that say they are complete on their own. If you’re interested in knowing more about that feel free to do some research yourself. It’s a fascinating discussion.