Soulful Slow Cooker Red Beans and Rice Louisiana Comfort Food Made Easy
Soulful Slow Cooker Red Beans and Rice: Louisiana Comfort Food Made Easy
Fancy a bit of Louisiana sunshine in your kitchen? I'm talking about slow cooker red beans and rice, mate. It's proper comfort food, simple to make and packed with flavour.
I reckon you'll love it.
From the Bayou to Your Kitchen
This dish hails from Louisiana. It's been a staple for ages. Traditionally, it simmers on the stove for hours. This red beans and rice slow cooker recipe is your modern, easy version.
It's the perfect way to experience Louisiana flavour, even if you're in the UK.
It's an easy peasy recipe. Prep takes about 20 minutes. Cooking in the slow cooker will take 6- 8 hours on low or 3- 4 hours on high.
It makes enough to feed 6-8 people. Get ready for seconds!
Why You'll Love This
It's packed with protein and fibre. The beans are a real winner for your gut health. It's also perfect for a casual get-together.
Or a cold rainy night. And let’s be real. Nothing beats a hearty, home cooked meal that tastes better than the takeaway.
What makes this recipe even more special? This crockpot red beans and rice dish is a flavor explosion. Trust me, it's better than a Greggs sausage roll on a cold morning.
Ready to get started?
What You'll Need (The Ingredients Line-Up)
Right then, you will need kidney beans. You need chicken broth and sausage. Some chopped onion, pepper, and celery, of course.
Don’t forget the garlic and some herbs. Now, if you are a vegetarian, you can still try our version of red beans and rice vegetarian slow cooker , just tweak the ingredient list accordingly.
Let's gather our stuff!
Ingredients & Equipment
Alright, let's get down to the nitty gritty of what you'll need for this soulful slow cooker red beans and rice extravaganza! Trust me, it's easier than putting the kettle on.
You'll be saying "Gordon Bennett that's easy!"
Essential Ingredients
- Dried Kidney Beans: 1 pound (454g) , rinsed. Go for a decent brand, not the dirt cheap ones. Quality beans make all the difference, and honestly they are the foundation of the slow cooker red beans and rice .
- Chicken Broth: 6 cups (1.4 L) , low sodium preferred. It's about the liquid, innit? So use good broth.
- Smoked Sausage: 1 pound (454g) . I'm talkin' andouille or kielbasa. The good stuff for the ultimate slow cooker red beans and rice andouille sausage .
- Yellow Onion: 1 large, chopped (approx. 1 cup ). Just your average onion, nothing fancy.
- Green Bell Pepper: 1 , chopped (approx. 1 cup ). Gives it that little something special.
- Celery Stalks: 2 , chopped (approx. 1 cup ). Don't skip these, they add depth.
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced. Because garlic makes everything better.
- Dried Thyme: 1 teaspoon . That little bit of earthy goodness.
- Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon . Helps tie all the flavours together.
- Cayenne Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon (or more, to taste). Add a kick if you want some serious flavour.
- Bay Leaf: 1 . Don't forget to take it out before serving.
- Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tablespoon . Adds a lovely umami note, but can use the vegan alternative.
Honestly, you can find a solid red beans and rice slow cooker recipe and all of these ingredients are going to be front and centre, but the better the ingredients, the better your final meal will be.
Spice It Up, Mate!
For that authentic flavour, don't skimp on the thyme and oregano. A dash of cayenne is brilliant for a bit of heat, but you can adjust it to your liking.
And if you fancy a red beans and rice vegetarian slow cooker , simply ditch the sausage!
Essential Equipment
All you'll need is your trusty slow cooker (6-quart or larger). A decent knife and chopping board are essential. I got mine from Argos, nothing fancy.
If you do not have one, a crockpot red beans and rice will taste the same.
- Slow cooker (6-quart or larger)
- Cutting board
- Chef's knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
No need for Michelin star gear here. A wooden spoon works fine. I've used a fork in a pinch and it's been just as good for the easy slow cooker red beans
So there you have it! That is all you need to create the best louisiana red beans and rice slow cooker .
Soulful Slow Cooker Red Beans and Rice: Louisiana Comfort Food Made Easy
Fancy a trip to Louisiana without the jet lag? This slow cooker red beans and rice recipe is your ticket! It's proper lush, easy as pie to make, and will have you saying "Oh my gosh!" after the first bite.
Forget that takeaway, this red beans and rice slow cooker recipe is where it's at for some real comfort grub.
This classic dish gets a modern, easy makeover in your crockpot red beans and rice . We're talking creamy, smoky, and deeply satisfying.
It's perfect for a chilly evening or a casual get-together. Honestly, this is comfort food at its finest! You can have a go yourself even if you're new to the kitchen.
This easy slow cooker red beans recipe is a doddle! Difficulty: Easy Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 6- 8 hours on low or 3- 4 hours on high Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes - 8 hours 20 minutes on low .
3 hours 20 minutes - 4 hours 20 minutes on high Servings: 6-8
Prep Steps: Get Your Ducks in a Row
- Essential mise en place: Chop 1 large yellow onion, 1 green bell pepper, and 2 celery stalks. Mince 3 cloves of garlic. Slice 1 pound (454g) of smoked sausage (I love andouille, you know?). Rinse 1 pound (454g) of dried kidney beans.
- Time saving organization tips: Get all your chopping done ahead of time! Stick it all in separate bowls! Saves a heap of time when you're ready to bung everything in.
- Safety reminders: Watch those fingers when chopping! No one wants a trip to A&E.
step-by-step Process: Bung It In
- Add the rinsed kidney beans, 6 cups (1.4 L) of chicken broth, sliced sausage, chopped onion, bell pepper, celery, minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, 1 bay leaf, and 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce to your slow cooker.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Go easy on the salt to start. You can always add more later.
- Cover and cook on low for 6- 8 hours , or on high for 3- 4 hours . Keep an eye on it. You want the beans tender and the liquid thickened.
- Mash some of the beans against the side of the slow cooker with a spoon. This makes it extra creamy. Think Jamie Oliver mashing spuds!
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Don't be shy with the cayenne if you like a kick! Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Serve hot over cooked white rice. Garnish with hot sauce and chopped green onions if you fancy!
Pro Tips: Ace It Like a Chef
- Want that extra flavour? If you're looking for a louisiana red beans and rice slow cooker , be generous with the sausage and spices.
- Don't overcook the beans! Nobody likes mush. Check for doneness after 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high .
- For a red beans and rice vegetarian slow cooker version, ditch the sausage and use vegetable broth. Add some smoked paprika to get that smoky flavour.
Right, that's it. Get cracking on your slow cooker red beans and rice andouille sausage feast!
Recipe Notes for Soulful Slow Cooker Red Beans and Rice
Right then, let's talk about how to make this slow cooker red beans and rice absolutely banging . Honestly, even if you're a bit of a kitchen klutz, you'll nail this.
It's proper simple. Let's dive in!
Get Your Grub On: Serving Suggestions
Fancy plating it up nicely? Pile the slow cooker red beans and rice high in a bowl. A sprinkle of fresh green onions or parsley makes it look the business.
Some people like to add a dollop of sour cream or even some crispy fried onions. You know? It's your call.
As for sides, red beans and rice slow cooker recipe goes down a treat with cornbread or a side salad to cut through the richness.
And of course, a splash of your favourite hot sauce is essential. A nice cold beer or sweet tea works wonders, too.
Storing Your Scran: Storage Tips
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Once cooled, stick your crockpot red beans and rice in an airtight container and it'll keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Easy peasy.
If you want to keep it longer, slow cooker red beans and rice andouille sausage freezes well. Just portion it out into freezer safe containers or bags.
It will be good for about 2-3 months. When you're ready to eat it, defrost it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the hob or in the microwave.
Make sure it's piping hot all the way through before tucking in!
Mix It Up: Variations
Feeling adventurous? This louisiana red beans and rice slow cooker recipe is easy to adapt. Fancy a red beans and rice vegetarian slow cooker ? Simply ditch the sausage and use vegetable broth.
Maybe add some smoked paprika for that smoky flavour. Boom, veggie heaven!
During autumn, chuck in some butternut squash for sweetness. During summer, roasted red peppers give it a real zing. It's your kitchen.
You're in charge. Get creative. The best slow cooker red beans and rice variations are the ones you make up yourself!
Nutri Facts: Nutrition Basics
So, you're wondering about the good stuff, yeah? Each serving packs a decent punch of protein, fibre, and iron. The slow cooker beans and rice healthy recipe has loads of kidney beans which are brilliant for your gut.
Roughly, you're looking at 450-550 calories a bowl.
It really is very flexible, and it’s a red beans and rice slow cooker recipe that can work for just about anyone.
This easy slow cooker red beans recipe is a winner. Honestly, it's that simple. Get stuck in and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make slow cooker red beans and rice vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make this a veggie delight, simply swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth and skip the sausage. For a smoky flavour, add a dash of smoked paprika or liquid smoke.
You could even add some vegan sausage alternatives, though you might need to brown them off in a pan first for a bit of extra flavour just like your nan used to do!
Do I need to soak the beans before making slow cooker red beans and rice?
Soaking the beans beforehand isn't strictly necessary, but it can help shorten the cooking time and make them easier to digest, especially if you've got a sensitive tummy. If you have the time, soak them for a few hours or overnight, then drain and rinse them well before adding them to the slow cooker.
If you're a bit strapped for time, don't sweat it the slow cooker will still work its magic.
How can I adjust the spice level in my slow cooker red beans and?
This recipe is all about customisation. If you like a bit of a kick, up the cayenne pepper or add a dash of your favourite hot sauce maybe some Encona for that Caribbean vibe? If you're not a fan of spice, simply reduce the cayenne pepper or leave it out altogether.
You can always add a little at the end, taste, and then add more if needed, just like they do on Masterchef!
My slow cooker red beans and are too watery. How do I thicken them?
If your red beans and rice are a bit too watery, don't panic! You have a couple of options. For a creamier texture, mash some of the beans against the side of the slow cooker with a spoon think Jamie Oliver mashing his spuds.
Alternatively, you can remove the lid and cook on high for another 30-60 minutes to allow some of the excess liquid to evaporate.
Can I freeze leftover slow cooker red beans and rice?
Absolutely! Slow cooker red beans and rice freeze beautifully. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When you're ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it in a saucepan or microwave until piping hot.
What kind of sausage is best for this slow cooker red beans and recipe?
Andouille sausage is the classic choice for red beans and rice, as it adds a fantastic smoky flavour and a bit of a kick. However, if you can't find andouille, kielbasa, chorizo, or another smoked sausage will work just fine.
Just make sure it's a good quality sausage it's the star of the show, after all, like a good banger in a full English!
Soulful Slow Cooker Red Beans And Rice Louisiana
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 450-550 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 20-25g |
| Fiber | 15-20g |
