Red Beans and Rice

Ingredients:

• 1 pound dried red beans
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 1 pound andouille sausage, sliced
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups water
• 4 cups cooked white rice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Green onions, chopped for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Soak the red beans in a large pot with enough water to cover them overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the beans, set aside.
3. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
4. Add onions, garlic, green bell pepper and celery, sauté until soft.
5. Add sausage and cook until it starts to brown.
6. Add the soaked and drained beans, bay leaves, thyme, oregano, and cayenne pepper to the pot.
7. Add chicken broth and water, bring to a boil.
8. Reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for about 2 hours or until beans are tender, stirring occasionally.