Muva’s Cooking
Red Beans and Rice
Growing up, I’ve always heard stories about how much my Mom loved to eat and make Red beans and rice… Honestly. from my understanding, that was one of the only things she knew how to make at the time. Given she passed at age 27, her cooking skills at 25-26 wasn’t super crazy , even though she was born and raised in Louisiana.
Red beans and rice is a big deal in my household because of that reason… but also, tradition. Do you know why red beans and rice are often made on Sundays or Mondays? Traditionally, the start of the week, you are spending the day minding the household duties and have left over meats from the weekend feast. So pig parts and beans with some rice were traditionally made on those days. Here below You’ll get the recipe I personally make as well as a little bit of history!
Ingredients
Red beans (canned or dry, if dry soak them the night before)
Chicken broth
onions
green bell peppers
andouille sausage
turkey tails (or turkey wings, or pork parts)
rice
celery
seasoning of choice (Slap ya mama seasoning, onion and salt n pepper)
bay leaf
Instructions :
1. Prepare the Beans: If using dry red beans, soak them overnight in water. Drain and rinse before use. If using canned beans, simply rinse and set aside.
2. Cook the Meats: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat up medium heat and add the sliced andouille sausage. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and celery (the "holy trinity" of Cajun cooking) to the pot. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add Turkey: Add the turkey tails (or wings/pork pieces) to the pot, mixing with the vegetables. Let them cook for about 5 minutes.
5. Combine Ingredients: Add the soaked (or canned) red beans, chicken broth, bay leaf, and the browned sausage back into the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Season: Add the Slap Ya Mama seasoning, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
7. Simmer: Cover the pot and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours if using . Stir occasionally. If it thickens too much, add more broth or water.
8. Cook the Rice: About 20 minutes before serving, prepare the long-grain rice according to package instructions.
9. Final Adjustments: Once the beans are tender, taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. Remove and discard the turkey parts or shred the meat and return it to the pot if desired.
10. Serve: Serve the red beans over rice, garnishing with chopped green onions and/or parsley. Offer hot sauce on the side for added heat and of course some sweet corn bread!
Enjoy!
This hearty dish embodies the flavors of Louisiana and makes for a comforting meal. and don’t forget to leave a plate for your ancestors!
History and Spiritual Beliefs about Red Beans and Rice
Historical Background:
Red beans and rice has deep roots in Louisiana's Creole and Cajun cultures. Historically, this dish has been a staple in the diets of many Louisiana residents, particularly in New Orleans. It is traditionally made on Mondays because it aligns with the practice of cooking a large pot of beans during the workweek. Many households would typically cook the beans in a slow-cooking manner, allowing them to simmer while people went about their daily work.
Cultural Significance:
The practice of making red beans and rice on Mondays not only served to provide a hearty meal for families but also utilized ingredients that were often more economical—like beans and less expensive cuts of meat, such as turkey and pork tails. Using these ingredients allowed families to stretch their budgets while still enjoying a flavorful and filling meal.
It’s believed to be more than just food; it carries spiritual significance that connects generations through shared meals and communal gatherings.
The preparation and enjoyment of red beans and rice often reflect company, family, and community spirit. Gathering around the table with generous servings of this dish encourages connection and fellowship, and it has the power to evoke memories of home and tradition.
Thank you so Much for taking the time to enjoy my blog, maybe even try this recipe!
Love and Blessings
B🐝