Authentic Big Easy Red Beans and Rice

Quick, Simple, and filled with real Cajun flavor as if you're eating in New Orleans, Louisiana. While simmering, taste for flavor - add a little more Cajun seasoning if needed. I've combined green, orange, and red bell peppers before and it was delicious. Note: 2 tablespoons minced garlic, not 2 cloves

• Ready In: 35 mins
• Serves: 6-8

Ingredients

• 6  cups cooked white rice
• 2  tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2  tablespoons garlic, minced
• 1  large onion, chopped
• 1  large green bell pepper, chopped
• 2  large celery ribs, chopped
• 1 1⁄2 cups vegetable broth (add more broth as needed) or 1 1⁄2 cups chicken broth (add more broth as needed)
• 2  bay leaves
• 1⁄2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1  teaspoon dried thyme
• 1⁄4 teaspoon dried sage
• 1  tablespoon dried parsley
• 1 1⁄4 teaspoons  cajun seasoning (Recommend Tony Chachere's)
• 14 -16  ounces sausage, Slice length wise and chop into bite sizes (Andouille preferred, can use Kielbasa, Smoked, Beef)
• 2 (15 ounce) cans red kidney beans, drained and washed (this helps prevent gas)

Directions

1. Prepare your rice as directed while meal is simmering.
2. Olive oil in dutch oven or large skillet, medium-low heat.
3. Add minced garlic and cook 1-2 minutes.
4. Add chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery, saute for 6-8 minutes.
5. Add spices and broth, stirring well.
6. Add sausage and washed red kidney beans and fold in until well mixed.
7. Simmer for 15-20 minutes - cooking out most liquid
8. Taste test - This is the time to add a little more cajun spice.
9. Remove bay leaves.
10. Spoon mixture over 3/4 - 1 cup cooked rice.