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Copycat Mahatma Red Beans and Rice Recipe

Copycat Mahatma Red Beans and Rice

Mahatma Red Beans and Rice is a Southern-inspired dish featuring tender red beans, fluffy rice, and a blend of bold spices. It’s a comforting meal that pairs well with cornbread or grilled meats and is often enjoyed in Creole and Cajun cuisine.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Beans:

    • 1 cup dried red beans (or 2 cans of cooked red beans, drained and rinsed)

    • 4 cups water or vegetable broth

    • 1 small onion, diced

    • 2 cloves garlic, minced

    • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

    • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

    • 1 teaspoon dried thyme

    • ½ teaspoon black pepper

    • ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)

    • 1 bay leaf

    • 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Rice:

    • 1 cup long-grain white rice

    • 2 cups water or broth

    • ½ teaspoon salt

    • 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Red Beans

    1. If using dried beans, soak them overnight in water, then drain and rinse before cooking.

    1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the onions and garlic until fragrant.

    1. Add the soaked beans, water or broth, and all the seasonings, including paprika, cayenne, thyme, black pepper, salt, and bay leaf.

    1. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 1.5 to 2 hours until the beans are tender, stirring occasionally. If using canned beans, simmer for about 30 minutes to blend flavors.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

    1. In a separate pot, bring water or broth to a boil.

    1. Add the rice, salt, and butter or olive oil. Stir once, then cover and reduce heat to low.

    1. Cook for 15-18 minutes or until the liquid is fully absorbed. Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

Step 3: Combine the Beans and Rice

    1. Remove the bay leaf from the beans and give them a good stir.

    1. Serve the beans over the cooked rice, mixing slightly to absorb the flavors.

    1. Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions if desired.