Ingredients
1 pound dried red beans
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 celery stalk, chopped
1 teaspoon thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
4 fried chicken pieces
Cooked rice for serving
Directions
1. Begin by rinsing your red beans thoroughly, then let them soak overnight so they’re ready for the next day.
2. In a large pot, combine the soaked beans with 4 cups of fresh water. Bring everything to a lively boil.
3. Stir in the chopped onion, minced garlic, bell pepper, celery, thyme, bay leaf, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Let the beans cook, uncovered, for about an hour and a half to two hours, or until they’re beautifully tender and full of flavor.
4. When you’re ready to eat, spoon the red beans over a bed of warm, fluffy rice. Nestle those crispy fried chicken pieces right alongside, and enjoy this comforting Louisiana classic.
