Hearty Red Beans and Rice

This is my version of red beans and rice. After searching through several and combining parts of many, this is what I came up with. It is probably not a traditional version. (I'm from Oklahoma, not Louisiana :) ), However, ever time I have taken this someplace, the dish comes back empty and several people ask for the recipe. I will often make early and then put it in a crockpot on low. It becomes very creamy when made this way. I usually sautee the veggies in a sprayed, non-stick skillet, but you can use 2-4 tablespoons of butter instead. This recipe doubles nicely.

• Ready In: 35 mins
• Serves: 6-8

Ingredients

• 1  medium onion, chopped
• 1  green pepper, chopped
• 2  stalks celery, chopped
• 2  garlic cloves, minced
• 1  teaspoon liquid smoke
• 1  teaspoon  all purpose Greek seasoning
•  salt and pepper
• 2 (16 ounce) cans  red beans
• 1 1⁄2 cups rice, uncooked
• 1 -2  lb smoked sausage, sliced

Directions

1. Cook the rice according to the package instructions, being sure to add plenty of salt. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sautee the onion, green pepper, celery, garlic and seasonings until the veggies are soft.
3. Stir in the beans and sliced sausage.
4. Heat thoroughly then mix in the rice.
5. Heat throughout and serve.