Red Beans, Smoked Sausage and Rice

By Addie

Red beans with hearty slices of smoked sausage served over rice make this delicious dish a favorite in many kitchens.

Ingredients

• 1 (1 pound) bag dried small red beans
• 8 cups water
• 4 chicken bouillon cubes (can use 2 less cups of water and add one can of chicken broth)
• 1 teaspoon bacon grease (optional)
• 1 ham hock
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon ground sage
• 1 (approx. 1 pound package) smoked sausage, cut into slices or pieces (I use Hillshire Farm Smoked Sausage)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Long grain rice or rice of your choice

Preparation

Step 1

Rinse the beans and put in dutch oven or large pot. (I do not soak these beans) Add water and remaining ingredients except for salt. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover and simmer on low for about 2 hours. Add salt before serving. Serve over rice of your choice. Enjoy!


Note: I use long grain rice prepared according to package directions. This could be made in the crockpot, too. Just cook on low for about 7 or 8 hours until beans are done and make your rice separate.