SHREVEPORT, LA – The weather has cooled off and it’s beginning to feel like fall. That means, it’s time to find a great bowl of red beans and rice. It’s the perfect meal for a cool day. And it’s delicious if it’s done right.

News Radio 710 KEEL logo
Get our free mobile app

You will hear people talk about all kinds of ways to make this yummy dish. My Grandmother and Mom will always be at the top of the list for the best red beans and rice. I think the secret to this version was that big ham bone they used to bring more flavor to the dish. But lots of folks make amazing red beans and rice without the ham.

I grew up in Louisiana and have had the privilege of eating some crazy good red beans and rice at friends homes and local restaurants.

This is a hearty dish that can have a kick. It’s actually not too expensive to cook.

How to Make Red Beans and Rice

Gather these ingredients:

  • 1 pound dry kidney beans
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 stalks celery, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons minced garlic
  • 6 cups water
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tablespoon dried parsley
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon dried sage
  • 1 pound sausage, sliced
  • 4 cups water
  • 2 cups long grain white rice

It’s best to prepare to make red beans and rice slowly. In fact, soak those red kidney beans overnight.

On the day of cooking, move the soaked beans to a large pot with water.

Saute bell peppers, onions, celery and garlic in oiled skilled. Dump these cooked vegetables into the pot with the beans. Toss in the bay leaves, Cajun seasoning, and other spices.

Bring the bean mixture to a slow boil before reducing the heat and letting this simmer for 2 ½ hours.

Slice the sausage and brown it slightly in a skillet and add the sausage to the beans and cook for 30 more minutes.

READ MORE: Do you rinse rice before you cook it?

Serve over cooked rice.

The version my Mom and Grandmother made included a big hambone in the pot with the red beans for added flavor. You can always add one if you’ve got one.

We asked folks who has the best red beans and rice in Shreveport Bossier and got lots of responses.

Who Has the Best Red Beans and Rice in Shreveport Bossier?

Dozens of people stepped up to tell us who serves their favorite.

More From News Radio 710 KEEL