Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Red Beans (Louisiana Style) Recipe
When you plunge into this Slow Cooker Red Beans (Louisiana Style) recipe, you’re not just making a meal; you’re experiencing a comforting taste of Southern tradition.
I love how this dish brings warmth and familiarity to my kitchen, filling the air with enticing aromas. The rich flavors meld together effortlessly, making it a perfect choice for those busy weeknights or cozy gatherings.
You won’t find a more satisfying way to enjoy classic Louisiana cuisine. Plus, the convenience of a slow cooker means I can set it and forget it, letting the magic happen while I focus on other things.
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why this recipe holds a special place in my heart.
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Red Beans (Louisiana Style)
When it comes to making a delicious pot of Slow Cooker Red Beans (Louisiana Style), the right ingredients can make all the difference. This recipe is packed with flavor and just the right amount of Southern charm.
You might be wondering what goes into this delightful dish, and I’m here to break it down for you. From the savory ham to the vibrant veggies, each ingredient plays an essential role in creating a meal that’s not only satisfying but also brings a little piece of Louisiana right to your kitchen.
So, roll up your sleeves and let’s take a look at what you’ll need to whip up this cozy classic.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb red kidney beans
- 1-2 slices ham (center-cut slice with bone)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 8 ounces canned pineapple chunks (for seasoning ham)
- 12 ounces Little Smokies sausages
- 1 green bell pepper
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- Seasoning salt (to taste)
- Hot sauce (to taste)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 large white onion
- 2 stalks celery
Now, let’s talk about some considerations regarding these ingredients. First off, if you’re short on time, you can skip soaking the beans overnight; just be sure to rinse them well before using.
Also, don’t be afraid to adjust the amounts of garlic, seasoning salt, and hot sauce based on your taste preferences. You want the dish to sing to you, not scream.
And if you can’t find Little Smokies, any small sausage will do just fine; just cut them up and toss them in. This recipe is pretty forgiving, just like my attempts at making a soufflé—let’s say I’m a little too skilled at making them collapse.
How to Make Slow Cooker Red Beans (Louisiana Style)
Making Slow Cooker Red Beans (Louisiana Style) is a delightful journey that fills your kitchen with the warm, inviting aromas of the South. To kick things off, grab 1 lb of red kidney beans. Rinse them three times with cold water, then let them soak for about an hour or overnight if you have the time. Soaking helps the beans cook evenly and guarantees they’re nice and tender.
While your beans are soaking, let’s prepare the star of the show—the ham. Take your 1-2 slices of center-cut ham with bone and rinse them off. In a hot skillet, sprinkle 1/4 cup of brown sugar over the ham and toss in 8 ounces of canned pineapple chunks. Bring this sweet mixture to a boil and let it bubble away until the ham is red and curling—this adds a fantastic depth of flavor.
Once your ham is ready, remove it from the skillet and cut it into big pieces. Now, let’s build the flavor in your slow cooker. Chop up 1 green bell pepper, 1/2 of a large white onion, and 2 stalks of celery. Toss those colorful veggies into the crockpot along with a tablespoon of minced garlic, a bay leaf, and your seasoning salt to taste. Add the ham pieces, followed by the soaked beans.
Now, here’s an essential step: pour in enough water to cover the beans by about 2 inches. Time to set the slow cooker to high for two hours. After that, turn it down to low and let it simmer away until the beans are cooked through, which usually takes about another hour.
When it’s time to serve, you’ll want to scoop your delicious beans over a bed of fluffy rice, maybe with some cornbread on the side. And don’t forget a few dashes of hot sauce if you like a bit of heat. Trust me, this meal is comfort food at its finest, and you might just find yourself going back for seconds—who could blame you?
Slow Cooker Red Beans (Louisiana Style) Substitutions & Variations
While traditional ingredients make for a fantastic dish, there’s plenty of room for creativity in your Slow Cooker Red Beans (Louisiana Style).
For instance, if you’re not a fan of ham, smoked sausage or turkey can work beautifully as alternatives. You can also swap out kidney beans for pinto beans if you prefer a different texture.
Adding spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper can ramp up the heat, while fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can bring a fresh note.
If you want to make it vegetarian, just omit the meat and add more veggies, like zucchini or carrots.
Experimenting with these substitutions can create your own signature version of this classic dish!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Red Beans (Louisiana Style)
There are several delicious options to serve alongside Slow Cooker Red Beans (Louisiana Style) that can elevate your meal.
One of my favorites is fluffy white rice, which absorbs the rich flavors of the beans beautifully. You can also’t go wrong with a side of cornbread; its sweetness complements the savory beans perfectly.
For a bit of crunch, I enjoy pairing it with a fresh green salad, tossed with a light vinaigrette. If you’re feeling adventurous, some crispy fried plantains can add a unique twist.
And let’s not forget a few dashes of hot sauce on top to kick things up a notch. These sides transform a simple dish into a hearty, satisfying feast!
Additional Tips & Notes
When preparing Slow Cooker Louisiana Red Beans, a few tips can enhance your experience. First, soaking the beans overnight not only reduces cooking time but also helps them cook evenly.
I recommend using a quality ham, as it adds depth to the flavor. Don’t skip the brown sugar and pineapple; they create a unique sweetness that balances the dish.
If you like heat, add hot sauce gradually, tasting as you go. For a heartier meal, serve with rice and cornbread, but feel free to get creative with your sides!
Finally, let the beans sit for a bit after cooking; they taste even better the next day. Enjoy your cooking adventure, and savor each bite!