New Orleans Style Red Beans

Our family version of the classic Monday dish in New Orleans. Historically, Monday was laundry day and, before modern washers, women needed a meal that could simmer on a low fire al day with minimal attention. The need is gone, but the tradition survives. To this day no self respecting neighborhood New Orleans restaurant would leave this off their Monday specials! Our family version kept the recipe simple which allows the flavor of the beans to come through. If you like you can also add garlic and bell pepper to the recipe. You can substitute andouille sausage, ham, or pickled meat for the smoked sausage if you prefer. In our house we serve it over a medium grain steamed rice, but this works with most rices.

• Ready In: 1 hr 40 mins
• Serves: 4-6

Ingredients

• 1  lb red kidney beans
• 1  medium onion
• 1  stalk celery
• 1⁄2 teaspoon parsley
• 1⁄2 teaspoon thyme
•  salt
•  pepper
• 4  cups water
• 1  lb smoked sausage, cut into 1-2 inch pieces
• 1  teaspoon baking powder

Directions

1. Place beans, onion, parsley, thyme, water and celery into a large pot and bring to a rolling boil stirring occasionally.
2. Reduce heat so that there is still a slight roll and continue occasional stirring until beans begin to soften and break up, adding water as needed.
3. At this point add the sausage and, using a spoon (a relatively flat wooden spoon works best) gently mash the beans against the side of the pot and scrape the sides to release the mashed beans (this will help thicken the sauce).
4. When the sauce has achieved a creamy consistency it is ready to serve. (depending on the freshness of the beans usually 1.5 to 3 hours) Serve over your favorite rice.
5. Add the baking powder, blended in an ounce or two of water, just after cooking. This will cause the beans to foam up added. I find that adding this reduces the gas and bloating that beans can cause.