A comforting Southern classic simmered low and slow, just the way Mama Clara would’ve made it—rich with smoky flavor, hearty beans, and warm Cajun spices that feel like home in every bite.

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Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (or 2 hours for extra creaminess)

Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Servings: 6–8

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🍽️ Ingredients

Red Beans

• 1 lb dried red kidney beans, rinsed (or 3 cans, drained)
• 1 smoked turkey leg, ham hock, or 12 oz smoked sausage
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 3 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth or water
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp thyme
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
• Salt & black pepper (to taste)
• 1–2 tbsp hot sauce (optional)
• 1 tbsp butter (optional for richness)

Rice

• 2 cups long-grain white rice
• 4 cups water
• 1 tsp salt

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🥘 Instructions

Cook the Beans

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, add beans, smoked turkey (or sausage), onion, bell pepper, celery, garlic, and bay leaf.
2. Pour in broth or water until ingredients are fully covered.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer.
4. Add paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
5. Cover and simmer for 1 to 1½ hours, stirring occasionally.
6. Once beans are tender, mash a small scoop of beans against the pot to thicken the broth.
7. Stir in butter and hot sauce (optional) for added richness and heat.
8. Remove smoked turkey leg or ham hock, shred the meat, and return it to the pot.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

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Cook the Rice

10. Rinse rice under cold water until water runs clear.
11. Bring 4 cups of water to a boil, then stir in rice and salt.
12. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer 15 minutes.
13. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.

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Serve

14. Scoop fluffy rice into a bowl and ladle those creamy Louisiana red beans right on top.
15. Garnish with green onions, extra hot sauce, or fresh herbs if desired.
16. Serve warm and enjoy a taste of Southern love in every bite.