Traditional New Orleans Red Beans & Rice

Ingredients

• 1 lb red beans (preferably Camellia brand)
• 3 onions, finely chopped
• 1 big ham bone
• 3 lbs andouille sausages
• 3 bay leaves
• 2 tablespoons thyme
• 5 garlic cloves, mashed
• salt
• cooked rice

Directions

1. 1

   Soak the red beans overnight or at least 3 hours in cold water.

2. 2

   Drain off the water and put in a large pot and cover with water.

3. 3

   In a skillet, brown the meats then add the onions and continue to cook until the onions are slightly browned.

4. 4

   Add the remaining ingredients to the red beans and bring it to a boil then reduce to a simmer and cook for 2 1/2 to 3 hours until creamy.

5. 5

   Serve with cooked rice and hot sauce.