The food in New Orleans is known for its eclectic, creole, and cajun flavorings. From the infamous beignets to spicy jambalaya, the cuisine in this iconic city is like no other. If you're craving the soulful taste of New Orleans, we have just the recipe for you. This healthy New Orleans red beans recipe brings the flavors of New Orleans right into your home. This dish is flavorful, filling, and surprisingly healthy. Even your pickiest eaters will love it!
Healthy New Orleans Red Beans
Ingredients:
- 1 pound dry red beans
- 2 quarts water
- 1½ cups onion, chopped
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 4 bay leaves
- 1 cup green peppers, chopped
- 3 tablespoons garlic, chopped
- 3 tablespoons parsley, chopped
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme, crushed
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Directions:
1. Pick through beans to remove bad ones. Rinse beans rinse thoroughly.
2. In a large pot, combine beans, water, onion, celery, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and cook over low heat for about 1½ hours or until beans are tender. Stir. Mash beans against the side of the pan.
3. Add green pepper, garlic, parsley, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Cook uncovered over low heat until creamy, about 30 minutes. Remove bay leaves.
4. Serve with hot cooked brown rice, if desired.
Nutrition
Yield: 8 servings
Serving size: 1¼ cup
PER SERVING:
Calories: 171
Total fat: less than 1 g
Saturated fat: less than 1 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg
Sodium: 285 mg
Total fiber: 7 g
Protein: 10 g
Carbohydrates: 32 g
Potassium: 665 mg
Serve this dish alongside rice and even add in some chopped smoked sausage to make it a complete meal. And if you loved this recipe, we have more New Orleans-inspired dishes that will liven up your weeknight dinners. Try our tasty chicken creole recipe or classic New Orleans bread pudding. And if you're looking to plan a trip with your family to this historic city, check out our list of the best things for kids to do in New Orleans. Enjoy!
The image featured at the top of this post is ©Fanfo/Shutterstock.com.