Uptown Red Beans and Rice

Ingredients and Weight:

• 1 pound dried red beans, picked over and rinsed
• 1 large onion, chopped (1 cup)
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped (1 cup)
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped (1 cup)
• 4 ribs celery, chopped (1 cup)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can beef broth
• 1 (10-ounce) can diced jalapeños (optional)
• 3 cups cooked white rice

Preparation Time:

• 1 hour

Cooking Time:

• 2-3 hours

Difficulty Level:

• 2 (intermediate)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. In a large Dutch oven or pot, combine the red beans, onion, bell peppers, celery, garlic, parsley, thyme, black pepper, and salt.
2. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, and jalapeños (if using).
3. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the beans are tender and creamy.
4. Meanwhile, cook the white rice according to package instructions.
5. Once the beans are cooked, whisk together until smooth. Serve over cooked white rice.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 350 per serving
• Fat: 5 grams
• Saturated Fat: 1 gram
• Cholesterol: 5 milligrams
• Sodium: 500 milligrams
• Carbohydrates: 60 grams
• Fiber: 10 grams
• Sugar: 15 grams
• Protein: 15 grams

Dish Characteristics:

• Creamy and flavorful red beans
• Vibrant and aromatic vegetables
• Served over fluffy white rice
• Suitable for American taste and themed around beans and rice

User Comments:

• "The beans were so tender and flavorful, and the rice was perfectly cooked. It's a hearty and delicious dish that's perfect for any occasion."
• "I love how easy this dish is to make. The flavors are amazing, and it's a great way to use up leftover white rice."
• "This is a staple dish in my household. It's a crowd-pleaser that always gets rave reviews."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Be sure to pick over the red beans and rinse them thoroughly before cooking to remove any debris.
• If you don't have time to cook the red beans for 2-3 hours, you can use canned red beans instead. However, the flavor will be less intense.
• Add more jalapeños or other spices to taste, if desired.
• Serve with additional toppings such as chopped green onions, shredded cheddar cheese, or sour cream.