Some days you just need some comfort food. Good old-fashioned, like mama use to make comfort food. This is one of my favorites, and I think it’s the only recipe from my mother that I haven’t changed. It’s simple, full of flavor and perfect for any day of the week your craving something really good.
I make my red beans with smoked country sausage. One of my favorite brands is Register’s, but when I can’t find that I like Uncle John’s Pride out of Tampa. Make sure you don’t choose a larger brand sausage, it doesn’t have the same quality of flavor. You can also use andouille sausage for a more authentic recipe.
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Yield: Serves 4
1 lb country smoked country sausage (or andouille)
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 yellow bell pepper, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 medium onion, diced
1 – 15 oz can small red beans
1 – 15 oz can diced tomatoes, or 2 large diced fresh tomatoes
1 clove garlic, diced fine
1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
1 jalapeno, diced fine (optional)
1 teaspoon gumbo file
Steamed White Rice
1. Cook rice according to package directions.
2. Preheat a large skillet. Add sausage and lightly brown. Then add bell peppers and onions. Saute until tender. Add garlic, Cajun seasoning, beans (jalapeno if using) and tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for 15 - 20 minutes, or until bell peppers are very tender.
3. Right before serving, stir in gumbo file. This will make your sauce thicker too. Add water if necessary.
4. Serve over cooked rice garnished with Italian parsley.
