Red Beans & Rice

Red Beans & Rice are staples in the US South on New Year’s Day, offering the hope of good luck and prosperity for the coming year. While the eSEMA version is slightly different, it offer the same well wishes. Rice is a traditional good luck dish in China and in India, it can keep bad omens at bay.
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Servings 6

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper chopped
  • 2 celery stalks chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can (15 oz.) red beans drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz.) diced tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
  • Optional: chopped green onions or fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
    Stir in the garlic, smoked paprika, thyme, cayenne pepper (if using), and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
    Add the red beans and diced tomatoes (with their juices) to the skillet. Stir everything together, then simmer for about 10 minutes to let the flavors blend. Taste and add salt as needed.
    Serve the beans mixture over cooked rice. Garnish with green onions or parsley if desired.

Notes

Tips:
For added flavor, try adding a splash of hot sauce.
You can add sliced andouille sausage or smoked sausage to make it heartier (cook it with the veggies).