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Ray's Red Beans

Source of Recipe


From "The All-American Cowboy Cookbook"






List of Ingredients



• 1 (1-lb.) package red beans
  
• 2 medium onions, chopped
  
• 2 ribs celery with leaves, chopped
  
• 1/2 green bell pepper, chopped
  
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
  
• Ham bone or 1/4 cup bacon drippings
  
• Oregano, thyme, salt, cayenne, garlic powder, and bay leaves to taste
  
• 1 pound large-link smoked sausage, cut into 1/2-inch slices
  
• Hot cooked rice
  
• Shredded Cheddar cheese
  
• Chopped green onions
  






Instructions



1. Wash and drain the beans in a 4-quart saucepan; add 2 quarts water and beans. Soak overnight. (Or, in a 4-quart saucepan, add 2 quarts water and red beans; bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let stand for 1 hour before continuing.) Do not drain off water.
   
   
2. Two hours before serving, add onions, celery, bell pepper, garlic, and ham bone to beans and bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer for about 1-1/2 hours or until beans are soft and begin to thicken. Do not stir beans more than necessary or they will get mushy. Gently stir in oregano, thyme, salt, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, bay leaves, and the sausage. Simmer for 30 minutes longer or until beans are tender.
   
   
3. Serve over hot cooked rice and top with cheese and onions, if desired.
   
   Makes 6 servings.