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Red Beans

This classic red beans dish is a high-protein staple that delivers deep, smoky flavours and a wonderfully satisfying texture. By slowly simmering dried kidney beans with aromatic onions and herbs, you create a naturally creamy base that perfectly complements the savoury richness of smoked ham and sausages. It is the definition of soul-warming comfort food, making it an excellent choice for a nutritious midweek family dinner or a batch-cooking session for the week ahead.

Packed with fibre and essential minerals, this hearty meal is both healthy and economical. Mashing a few of the beans against the side of the pan is the secret to achieving that authentic, thick consistency without needing additional thickeners. Serve this savoury stew over a bed of steamed long-grain rice for a complete, balanced meal that provides a sustained release of energy.

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Ingredients for Red Beans

  • 450g red kidney beans

  • 2 qt. water

  • 1 large onion (chopped)

  • 60ml vegetable oil

  • 450g smoked ham (cubed)

  • 450g smoked sausages (in 1/2-inch slices)

  • 240ml water

  • 1 tablespoon chopped garlic

  • 1 bay leaf

  • 1 tablespoon black pepper

  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

  • 1 teaspoon whole thyme leaves

  • 2 level tbsp. salt

How to make Red Beans

Pick through beans, removing all bad beans or any other particles. Wash beans well. Place beans in a 5-quart pot. Add the 1.9L of water. Add onions; bring to a boil. Lower heat and let beans boil slowly for 1 hour. When beans are soft, stir well, mashing some against the side of the pot.

Heat oil in frying pan; add ham and sausage. Sauté in oil for 5 mintues. Then add the sausage, ham, and oil to beans. Deglaze pan with the cup of water, then pour into beans. Add all other ingredients. Let simmer for 30 minutes. Beans should be nice and creamy. Serve over rice.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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