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Cheddars Red Beans and Rice Recipe

Easy to Make Cheddars Red Beans and Rice Recipe

Cheddars Red Beans and Rice Recipe brings the warm, comforting flavors of Southern cooking straight to your kitchen.
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Prep Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 50 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 3 People
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 1198
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • ½ cup white rice
  • 3 lb red kidney beans
  • 3 lb smoked ham
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 3 onions
  • 3 bell peppers
  • 9 bay leaves
  • 1 tbsp dry thyme
  • ⅓ cup parsley
  • 2 tbsp salt
  • 1 tbsp black pepper

Equipment

  • Large Soup Pot
  • Frying pan
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Soak the Beans: Start by soaking your red kidney beans overnight in 6 quarts of water. If you’re short on time, use the quick-soak method (see tips section).
  2. Cook the Beans: Place the soaked beans in a heavy pot with 6 quarts of fresh water. Bring to a boil and then reduce the heat. Let the beans simmer for about an hour, or until they’re tender.
  3. Sauté the Vegetables: In a separate frying pan, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Add the minced onions, garlic, and bell peppers, stirring until they soften and begin to change color (around 10 minutes). Once done, add them to the pot with the beans.
  4. Brown the Ham: In the same frying pan, brown the diced smoked ham cubes. When the ham is fully browned, add it to the bean pot.
  5. Add the Seasonings: Now, it’s time to enhance the flavor! Add thyme, parsley, vinegar, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Let everything simmer for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. If the mixture gets too thick, add a little water as needed.
  6. Serve: Once the beans are tender and the sauce has thickened, taste the dish and adjust the seasonings as necessary. Discard the bay leaves and serve the beans and ham over warm, cooked white rice.

Notes

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh vegetables and quality smoked ham. It makes a big difference in the overall taste of the dish.
  • Don’t Rush: Let the beans simmer and absorb all the flavors. Patience is key to creating a rich, flavorful dish.
  • Adjust the Seasonings: Taste as you go! Don’t be afraid to add more salt, pepper, or spices to suit your preferences.
  • Quick-Soak Method: If you don’t have time to soak the beans overnight, use the quick-soak method. Boil the beans for 20 minutes, then let them sit for an hour before cooking.