Cajun Red Beans and Rice Skillet
In the realm of Louisiana cuisine, few dishes embody the bold and vibrant flavors quite like Cajun Red Beans and Rice. This classic dish, traditionally served with cooked white rice on the side, has been given a delightful twist in this recipe. I present to you the Cajun Red Beans and Rice Skillet, a hearty and satisfying one-pot meal that captures the essence of this iconic Louisiana favorite. Join me as we explore the aromatic Cajun trinity, the convenience of pre-made Cajun seasoning, and the joy of creating your own homemade spice blend.
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Unleashing the Flavors of the Cajun Trinity
At the heart of the Cajun Red Beans and Rice Skillet lies the renowned Cajun Trinity. Similar to the French mirepoix and the Italian soffrito, this flavor base consists of a combination of onion, celery, and green pepper. The ratio of these ingredients is commonly one-part onion to one-part celery and one-part green pepper. However, don’t hesitate to experiment with different proportions to suit your taste buds. The Cajun trinity sets the stage for a symphony of flavors in this mouthwatering skillet meal.
The Convenience of Pre-made Cajun Seasoning
To streamline your cooking process and save time, you have the option of purchasing pre-made Cajun seasoning. Here is an authentic recommended option for your convenience. With pre-made blends, you can achieve authentic Cajun flavors without the hassle of measuring individual spices. It’s as simple as sprinkling the seasoning into your skillet and allowing the flavors to meld together.
Embrace the Art of Homemade Spice Blends
For those who enjoy a hands-on approach and crave customization, preparing your own Cajun spice blend is a delightful option. By doing so, you gain control over the level of heat by adjusting the amount of cayenne pepper used. Homemade spice blends also offer the advantage of being preservative-free, ensuring a fresh and flavorful experience.
Simply gather the essential spices like paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, and cayenne pepper. The exact recipe is provided below. Mix them in the desired ratios and let your taste buds guide you to your perfect blend. You’ll be rewarded with a tantalizing spice mixture that can be used in various Cajun-inspired dishes. Remember, any excess seasoning can be stored in an airtight container for future culinary adventures.
Enhancing the Flavor with Andouille Sausage
To take your Cajun Red Beans & Rice Skillet to the next level by adding andouille sausage. This smoky and spicy sausage is a staple in Cajun cuisine and adds a depth of flavor that perfectly complements the dish. Simply slice the sausage and sauté it with the Cajun trinity, allowing the flavors to meld together. The rendered fat from the sausage infuses the dish with a rich smokiness, while the spiciness adds an extra kick. The combination of andouille sausage, red beans, rice, and aromatic Cajun seasonings creates a symphony of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing with delight. So, embrace the boldness of Cajun cuisine by incorporating andouille sausage into your Red Beans & Rice Skillet for an unforgettable culinary experience.
Cajun Red Beans and Rice Skillet
The Cajun Red Beans and Rice Skillet presents a creative twist on a beloved Louisiana classic. With the Cajun trinity infusing rich flavors into the dish and the convenience of pre-made Cajun seasoning or the pleasure of crafting your own spice blend, this one-pot meal promises to satisfy both your taste buds and your desire for a convenient cooking experience. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and embark on a culinary journey that brings the spirit of Louisiana right to your dinner table.
Cajun Red Beans and Rice Skillet
Course: SidesCuisine: SouthernDifficulty: Easy4
servings20
minutes40
minutesCajun Seasoning Ingredients
1 T. garlic powder
1 T. smoked paprika
½ T. onion powder
2 t. dried oregano
1 t. dried thyme
2 t. cayenne pepper
1 t. ground white pepper
2 t. fine sea salt
- Skillet Ingredients
3 3-oz. Cajun Andouille sausage links, sliced
2 T. extra virgin olive oil, divided
1 c. chopped white onion
1 c. chopped celery
1 c. chopped green bell pepper
½ c. chopped red bell pepper
1-2 T. Cajun seasoning, divided
1 c. basmati rice*
2 c. chicken broth or water
2 15-oz. cans red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
3 T. fresh parsley, finely chopped
Directions
- Prepare the Cajun seasoning by combining all ingredients together in a bowl. Stir to combine and transfer to an airtight container. Set aside.
- Add Andouille sausage to a large skillet set over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned on each side, approximately 4-5 minutes. Transfer browned sausage to a plate and set aside.
- Heat one tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet and increase to medium-high heat. Add the onion, celery, green pepper, and red pepper. Sprinkle with one tablespoon Cajun seasoning and stir to combine. Cook, stirring frequently, until the vegetables soften and develop some color, approximately 5-6 minutes.
- Add remaining olive oil and the rice to the skillet. Toast the rice for 1-2 minutes, while stirring continually. Add the chicken broth and deglaze the skillet by lightly scraping the bottom with a spatula or wooden spoon to loosen any browned bits.
- Bring the liquid to a boil, then immediately reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove lid and add the browned Andouille sausage, kidney beans, and additional Cajun seasoning, if desired. Stir to combine and cover for 5-10 minutes.
- Remove the lid and add the fresh parsley. Fluff the rice with a fork while stirring the parsley into the mixture. Serve immediately. Enjoy!
Notes
- *Recipe developed and tested with basmati rice. Cook time will vary if using different types of rice. Check package instructions and adjust accordingly.
Try next: Rustic Chicken and White Bean Stew with Andouille Sausage