Mardi Gras Rice Beans

The kitchen filled with the holy trinity sizzle that day my neighbor from Baton Rouge showed me how this dish could turn a Tuesday into something worth celebrating.

I served this at a tiny apartment gathering when I could barely afford takeout and my friends still talk about that night years later.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil: The foundation that carries all those spices through the dish
• 1 medium yellow onion finely chopped: Sweetness that balances the heat
• 1 green bell pepper diced: Fresh grassy notes essential to the trinity
• 1 red bell pepper diced: Brings color and a slightly sweeter dimension
• 2 celery stalks diced: The aromatic backbone that ties everything together
• 3 cloves garlic minced: Add this right before the spices so it does not burn
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: The secret ingredient that gives depth without meat
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Earthy notes that hint at slow cooking
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Bright herbal undertones
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Start here and adjust if you like more fire
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the vegetables natural sweetness
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Sharp bite that cuts through the creaminess
• 1 cup long grain white rice rinsed: Rinsing removes excess starch for fluffier results
• 2 cups vegetable broth: Homemade brings the best flavor but store bought works perfectly
• 2 15 ounce cans red kidney beans drained and rinsed: The creamy heart of the dish
• 1 14.5 ounce can diced tomatoes with juice: Adds acidity and body
• 2 green onions sliced: Fresh pop on top
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped: Bright finish that cuts the richness
• Hot sauce to taste: The final flourish for those who dare

Instructions

Build the foundation:

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat then add onion bell peppers and celery sauting for 5 to 7 minutes until softened and fragrant

Wake up the garlic:

Stir in minced garlic and cook for just 1 minute stirring constantly to prevent burning

Bloom the spices:

Add smoked paprika thyme oregano cayenne salt and black pepper cooking for 1 minute until the spices become aromatic and toast slightly

Coat the rice:

Pour in the rinsed rice and stir constantly for 1 to 2 minutes letting the grains absorb all those spiced flavors

Bring it all together:

Pour in vegetable broth diced tomatoes with juice and kidney beans stirring well to combine everything

Let it simmer:

Bring to a boil then reduce heat to low cover and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed

The resting ritual:

Remove from heat and let stand covered for 5 minutes then fluff gently with a fork

Finish with flair:

Serve hot topped with green onions parsley and hot sauce for anyone craving extra heat

Save

This recipe became my go to for potlucks after watching empty plates disappear at three different parties in one month.

Making It Your Own

A splash of liquid smoke transforms this into something remarkably meaty without any animal products whatsoever.

Perfect Pairings

Cornbread baked in a cast iron skillet soaks up the seasoned juices beautifully.

Getting Ahead

The flavor actually improves overnight as the spices meld into every grain and bean.

• Chop all vegetables the night before and store in the refrigerator
• Leftovers reheat beautifully with a splash of water or broth
• Double the batch and freeze portioned containers for busy weeks

Save

Some dishes feed the body but this one feeds the soul of everyone gathered around your table.

Recipe FAQs

→ What spices give this dish its flavor?

Smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper create a robust, aromatic seasoning blend.

→ Can I use another type of beans?

Yes, substitute red kidney beans with black beans or pinto beans for a different texture and taste.

→ How do I make this dish vegan?

Use plant-based vegetable broth and ensure any added ingredients like sausage are vegan-friendly.

→ What side dishes complement this meal?

Cornbread or a crisp green salad pair wonderfully, balancing the rich and spicy flavors.

→ Can I adjust the heat level in this dish?

Yes, modify cayenne pepper quantity or omit hot sauce to suit your preferred spice level.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently.