Treebeards Red Beans And Rice Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 pound of dried red kidney beans, rinsed and soaked overnight
• Alternatively, 3 cups canned red beans, drained and rinsed for a quicker version
• 2 cups long-grain white rice
• 4 cups water or broth for cooking rice
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika for deep smoky flavor
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste for heat)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt (adjust as needed)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 pound Andouille sausage, sliced for authentic Louisiana zest
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• 1/4 teaspoon liquid smoke, for extra smoky aroma
• Hot sauce, to serve on the side for those who love bold spice