Quickie Red Beans and Rice Recipe – Cheap Delicious Meals

Before we dive deep into the recipe, let me chat about what goes well with quickie red beans and rice. Think about serving this comforting dish with a variety of extras that can complement its flavors and textures. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Cornbread
Sweet, buttery cornbread brings a delightful contrast to the savory beans.

2. Coleslaw
A crunchy slaw balances the dish's richness. Plus, it adds a refreshing crunch!

3. Fried Plantains
Their sweet flavor pairs perfectly with the spices in the beans.

4. Grilled Sausages
A little smoky charm goes a long way in enhancing this dish.

Life can feel like a whirlwind sometimes. You hustle through your day, and before you know it, it’s dinner time. This is where my quickie red beans and rice takes center stage. It’s simple, satisfying, and bursting with flavor. Seriously, every single bite feels like a warm hug on a chilly night.

I’m a food enthusiast and a registered dietitian, with plenty of cooking experience tucked under my apron. I appreciate meals that not only taste amazing but are also quick to whip up. Over the years, I've developed this fast-paced recipe, perfect for any night when you're pressed for time but still want something hearty. Let’s dig into what makes this dish so special.

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What are Quickie Red Beans and Rice?

Quickie red beans and rice is a simplified version of the classic Creole dish known for merging red beans with rice and an array of spices, meats, and vegetables. It’s bright, flavorful, and warm. This recipe respects the traditional flavors while making it achievable on a busy night. By using canned beans and other quick-cook elements, I’ve turned what is usually a long-simmering meal into something you can enjoy in just about half an hour.

Why This Recipe Works

Let’s look at why I’m such a fan of this particular quickie red beans and rice dish. Here are four standout reasons to embrace this comfort food:

1. Speedy Cooking Time
This recipe clocks in at around 30 minutes. As a busy food blogger, this is essential. The speed comes from using canned beans and pre-cooked bacon, which cuts down the usual cooking time without sacrificing taste.

2. Nutrient-Dense Ingredients
The ingredients are not just tasty – they pack a nutritional punch! Kidney beans are rich in protein and fiber. Coupled with the anti-inflammatory spices, like cumin and smoked paprika, you’re set for a meal that nourishes the body as well as the palate.

3. Versatile Flavor Profile
I’ve mixed a variety of spices to keep the flavor exciting. The smokiness from the bacon complements the warm spices, while jalapeño adds a kick. Love spice? Add more. Prefer it milder? Leave out the jalapeño. It’s a dish that you can adjust to your liking.

4. One-Pot Wonder
Minimal cleanup is always a bonus in the kitchen! This dish cooks in just one pot, which means less scrubbing for you and a quick setup overall. Plus, who doesn’t love less dish duty?

Ingredients You'll Need to Make This Quickie Red Beans and Rice

Here’s what you’ll need to gather before embarking on this cooking adventure:

• 12 ounces smoked bacon, chopped: For that rich, hearty flavor.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds subtle warmth and depth.
•  2 cans kidney beans, with liquid included: No soaking or cooking from dry needed!
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Because life needs some zing.
•  1 teaspoon ground coriander: A lovely hint of citrus flavor.
• 1 small fresh jalapeño, finely chopped (optional): A little heat if you want it.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Savory goodness.
•  2 medium aromatics: Either 2 onions or 1 onion and 1 green bell pepper, diced for depth of flavor.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Adjust based on your taste.
• 2 cups uncooked long-grain white rice: The perfect base.
• ⅓ cup concentrated tomato paste: A touch of color and flavor.
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin: For depth and warmth.

How to Make These?

Step into my kitchen as I guide you through the cooking process.

Step 1: Prepare the Bacon

In your trusty pot, throw in those bacon pieces. Heat it over medium heat and let it sizzle until it’s nice and crispy. This might take about 5 to 7 minutes, but trust me, the aroma will be worth it! You want that delightful grease to flavor the rest of your dish.

Step 2: Add the Aromatics

Once the bacon is good and crispy, it’s time to add in your diced onions (or bell pepper). Stir them around for a few minutes until they soften. This step allows the glorious flavors to meld together, creating a fragrant base for your meal.

Step 3: Introduce the Spices

Sprinkle in the garlic powder, smoked paprika, coriander, and black pepper. Stir it up and inhale deeply. The aroma should be enticing! Let the spices toast for about a minute.

Step 4: Beans, Rice, and Tomato Paste

Now, drain one can of the kidney beans and add the other, liquid and all, along with the tomato paste. This combination helps build the creamy texture. Once mixed, add in the rice. Give everything a good stir so each grain soaks up that flavor.

Step 5: Add Water and Simmer

Pour in 4 cups of water, bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for around 20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 6: Fluff and Serve

Once finished, give the mixture a good stir to fluff it up. If you opted for jalapeño, now would be a great time to mix it in. Let it sit for a couple of minutes off the heat before serving.

Tips

Here are five tips to elevate your quickie red beans and rice:

Experiment with Proteins: Feel free to throw in some cooked sausage or shredded chicken for added protein.
Adjust Seasonings: Tweak spices according to your preference. A dash of hot sauce right before serving can really spice things up!
Add Fresh Herbs: Garnish with chopped scallions or cilantro for freshness.
Make it Creamy: Consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese for extra richness.
Batch Cooking: This meal holds well, so if you’re prepping for the week, double your batch!

Nutrition Information

One serving of quickie red beans and rice provides a decent balance of nutrients:

How to Store The Leftovers?

Leftovers can be a delight. Store any remaining quickie red beans and rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should keep well for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to freeze them, make sure to cool completely first. Stored in a freezer-safe container, it can last up to 3 months. Just defrost overnight in the fridge and reheat in a pot or microwave.

What Are Some Recommended Side Dishes for Quickie Red Beans and Rice?

If you want to jazz up your meal, here are four side dishes that pair beautifully:

1. Baked Sweet Potatoes
Hearty and slightly sweet, baked sweet potatoes make a great contrast to the beans.

2. Garlic Bread
Nothing beats fresh, buttery garlic bread as a scoop for those beans!

3. Avocado and Tomato Salad
A light, refreshing salad with ripe avocados and tomatoes provides a nice balance.

4. Creamy Coleslaw
A bit of crunch and creaminess goes well against the soft beans.

If the Items Are Not Available in Your Pantry, What Are Some Substitute Options for the Ingredients?

Sometimes, life throws a curveball. Here are some substitutes for key ingredients in case you’re missing something:

1. Bacon Alternatives
If you don’t have bacon, use turkey bacon or omit it altogether for a vegetarian option.

2. Kidney Beans Substitution
Use black beans or pinto beans; both work wonderfully and will offer a different flavor profile.

3. Long-Grain Rice Replacement
If you have brown rice or quinoa, they're great swaps, just be mindful of cooking times.

4. Tomato Paste Alternatives
If you don’t have tomato paste, use fresh diced tomatoes with a splash of tomato sauce or puree.

Conclusion

Quickie red beans and rice is your kitchen ally when speed meets flavor. It embraces those busy days and still guarantees that you'll sit down to a wholesome, delicious meal. Give this recipe a try, and you just might find yourself returning to it again and again. Like a trusty friend, it’s always there, waiting to whisk you away from the whirlwind of daily life into a delicious moment of comfort. Enjoy cooking!

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