Red beans and rice is a beloved classic dish deeply rooted in the traditions of Louisiana cuisine. Whether you’re cooking up an authentic red beans recipe for a Monday night dinner or looking to recreate that rich dish from your favorite New Orleans recipe, knowing what to serve with red beans and rice can elevate your meal to the next level. In this guide, we’ll explore the best side dishes, condiments, and accompaniments that pair beautifully with this hearty dish, creating a flavorful meal.
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What is Red Beans and Rice?
Red beans and rice is more than just a meal; it’s a staple in creole cuisine, often served as the main course on Sunday dinners or during Mardi Gras celebrations. Made with tender red beans, smoky flavors from andouille sausage or ham hock, and the holy trinity of Cajun cooking—green bell pepper, onion, and celery—this dish is simmered in a large pot until the beans are tender and flavorful. Traditionally served over white rice, it’s a dish that’s rich in history and flavor.
Vegetarian red beans and rice
Well red beans and rice is usually cooked with andouille sausage or a ham hock I make this vegetarian version. When we have it at home it makes for much healthier dinner and when I bring it to cookouts and backyard barbecues it's a nice vegetarian option that also pairs well with pulled pork and grilled sausage. It's nice to have some versatile sides that can accommodate a wide range of dietary preferences.
What to Serve with Red Beans and Rice?
To complete your red beans and rice meal, here’s a list of the best dishes, divided into categories to make your meal planning easier:
Condiments
- Hot Sauce: A must-have for those who love to kick up the spice level of their meal. Add a dash or two to your red beans recipe to enhance the heat level.
- Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickles, such as pickled okra, offer a delightful contrast to the smoky flavors of the beans.
- Remoulade Sauce: A classic Southern sauce that adds a creamy, tangy element to your plate.
- Creole Mustard: This spicy mustard is the perfect condiment to accompany your main dish.
- Chow Chow Relish: A pickled relish made from green tomatoes and cabbage, adding a sweet and sour note to the meal.
- BBQ Sauce: as a Syracuse University grad, my favorite is Wango Tango Habanero Dinosaur BBQ sauce, it's on the more vintage side and works really well with these beans.
Vegetable Dishes
- Collard Greens: A classic southern side dish that’s a perfect match for red beans and rice.
- Fried Okra: Golden-brown okra is a crispy side dish that pairs beautifully with this hearty dish.
- Cucumber Salad: A light and refreshing salad with a simple vinaigrette that balances out the richness of the main course.
- Roasted Vegetables: Try seasonal veggies like red bell peppers or green beans, roasted to bring out their natural sweetness.
- Tomato and Onion Salad: Fresh and juicy, this salad adds a burst of color and flavor to the dinner table.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus brings a touch of elegance to the meal.
- Stewed Tomatoes: Slow-cooked with onions and Cajun spices, this side dish adds depth to your plate.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with a savory filling make a great side dish that can also double as a main course.
Grains and Starches
- Cornbread: Slightly sweet and buttery, cornbread is a classic southern side dish that complements red beans and rice perfectly.
- Cheddar Biscuits: Warm, cheesy biscuits are a comforting addition to the meal.
- Baked Sweet Potatoes: Naturally sweet, they’re a great contrast to the savory beans.
- Macaroni and Cheese: A creamy, cheesy side that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
- Jalapeño Cornbread: Add a bit of spice to your meal with this twist on traditional cornbread.
- Potato Salad: Creamy or mustard-based, this dish is a great side that pairs well with the smoky flavors of the beans.
- Dirty Rice: A Cajun rice recipe made with chicken livers, ground meat, and Cajun seasoning, adding a rich and spicy element to your meal.
- Garlic Bread: Toasted bread with garlic and butter, perfect for soaking up every bit of sauce at the bottom of the pot.
- Herbed Quinoa: A lighter grain option that’s seasoned with fresh herbs and pairs well with the main dish.
Meat Dishes
- Fried Chicken: Crispy, juicy fried chicken is a perfect pairing with red beans and rice.
- Andouille Sausage: Spicy andouille sausage adds extra smoky flavors and is often cooked directly with the beans.
- Grilled Shrimp: Lightly seasoned and grilled, shrimp add a coastal flair to your meal.
- Blackened Catfish: A spicy, Cajun-seasoned fish that’s grilled or pan-fried, offering a flavorful complement to the beans.
- Smoked Ham Hocks: Adding ham hock to your pot of red beans is a traditional method that infuses the dish with deep, smoky flavors.
- Pork Chops: Grilled or pan-fried, pork chops seasoned with Cajun spices are a hearty addition to the plate.
- Barbecue Ribs: Tender, smoky ribs with a sweet or spicy BBQ sauce bring a robust flavor to your dinner.
- Roast Turkey: Savory, herb-roasted turkey slices are a great side dish or main course option.
- Cajun Meatloaf: A spicy twist on the classic meatloaf, made with Cajun seasoning and ground beef sausage.
Conclusion
Red beans and rice is a flavorful meal that’s versatile enough to be paired with a variety of sides, from classic Southern dishes like collard greens and cornbread to hearty meat options like pork chops and fried chicken. Whether you’re enjoying this classic dish as a comforting Monday night dinner or serving it up for a special occasion, these pairings will help you create a well-rounded, delicious meal that everyone will love.
For the best results, try experimenting with different sides and condiments to find your personal preference and make this dish your own. Whether you're using an instant pot for a quick soak or simmering your beans on medium-high heat in a large Dutch oven, the right pairings will elevate your red beans and rice to new heights.
Did you make this recipe? Let me know!