American-Style Red Beans and Rice

Ingredients and Weight:

• 1 pound dried red kidney beans, soaked overnight
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 green bell peppers, diced
• 1 large ham hock (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups long grain rice

Preparation Time:

30 minutes

Cooking Time:

2-3 hours

Difficulty Level:

2 (Simple)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Rinse and drain the soaked red beans.
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and bell peppers and sauté until softened.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
4. Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the red beans, ham hock (if using), and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the beans are tender.
6. Meanwhile, cook the rice according to package directions.
7. Once the beans are tender, discard the ham hock and serve the red beans and rice together.

Nutritional Information:

Per serving (1 cup beans and 1/2 cup rice):

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 65g
• Protein: 15g
• Fiber: 10g

Dish Characteristics:

• Hearty and flavorful
• Comforting and satisfying
• Pairs well with cornbread or salad

User Comments:

• "This dish is so easy to make and always a hit with my guests."
• "The perfect meal for a cold winter day."
• "Love the combination of beans and rice. It's a delicious and satisfying meal."
• "I like to add a little bit of spice to mine with some cayenne pepper."
• "This is a great dish to make in bulk and freeze for later."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Be sure to soak the beans overnight to reduce cooking time.
• If you don't have a ham hock, you can use smoked sausage or bacon instead.
• Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
• Serve with your favorite sides, such as cornbread, coleslaw, or salad.