Cajun Red Beans and Rice - Tony's Meats & Market

Ingredients

• Table or kosher salt
• 1 pound small red beans (about 2 cups), rinsed and picked over
• 4 slices bacon (about 4 ounces), chopped fine (see note)
• 1 medium onion, chopped fine (about 1 cup)
• 1 small green bell pepper, seeded and chopped fine (about 1/2 cup)
• 1 celery rib, chopped fine (about 1/2 cup)
• 3 medium garlic cloves, minced or pressed through garlic press (about 1 tablespoon)
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1 teaspoon sweet paprika (see note)
• 2 bay leaves
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Ground black pepper
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 6 cups water
• 8 ounces andouille sausage, halved lengthwise and cut into 1/4-inch slices (see note)
• 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar, plus extra for seasoning
• Basic White Rice (recipe follows)
• 3 scallions, white and green parts, sliced thin
• Hot sauce, optional