In this article, we will explore a delicious and easy-to-prepare recipe.

Easy Instant Pot Red Beans And Rice

Welcome to Easton Recipes Blog, where today we’re diving into the flavorful world of Cajun cuisine with our “Easy Instant Pot Red Beans And Rice” recipe. This dish is a Southern staple, known for its rich flavors and comforting warmth. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is designed to be both simple and satisfying. Let’s get started!

Ingredients List

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that pack a punch of flavor:

For the Rice:

• 2 cups (390g) basmati rice
• 2 cups (500ml) water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/8 teaspoon salt

For the Red Beans:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 lb (454g) dry red kidney beans
• 1 teaspoon salt (or more to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1-2 teaspoons Creole or Cajun seasoning
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• 7 cups (1750ml) water
• 1 lb (454g) andouille sausage, cut into thin slices

Timing

Preparing this Easy Instant Pot Red Beans And Rice takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes from start to finish, including prep and cooking time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

To Cook the Rice:

1. Rinse and Drain: Start by rinsing and draining the basmati rice to remove excess starch.
2. Prepare for Cooking: Add 2 cups of water to the Instant Pot inner pot. Combine the rice, salt, and water in an Instant Pot-safe dish, then stir.
3. Setup in Instant Pot: Place a long-legged trivet in the Instant Pot and position the rice dish on top. Cover with aluminum foil, poking a few small holes for ventilation.
4. Pressure Cook: Close the lid and pressure cook on High for 5 minutes. Allow a 10-minute Natural Pressure Release, then manually release any remaining pressure.
5. Cool Down: Remove the rice dish and let it cool, still covered, for 10 minutes.

To Cook the Beans:

1. Sauté Sausage: Turn on Sauté mode. Once hot, add olive oil and the sliced sausage, cooking until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté Vegetables: Add diced onion to the pot and sauté for 1 minute. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
3. Combine Ingredients: Return sausage to the pot and add all remaining ingredients.
4. Pressure Cook: Lock the lid and cook on High Pressure for 35 minutes. Allow a Natural Pressure Release, taking about 25 minutes.
5. Serve: Spoon the bean mixture over the cooked rice and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.

Nutritional Information

This Easy Instant Pot Red Beans And Rice dish is not only delicious but also nutritious, providing a hearty balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. It’s a great source of fiber, essential vitamins, and minerals.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

For a healthier twist, consider using brown rice instead of basmati for added fiber. Opt for turkey sausage instead of andouille for a lower-fat option. You can also reduce the salt or use low-sodium broth instead of water.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with a side of sautéed greens or a fresh garden salad to complement the rich flavors. A slice of crusty bread can also be a delightful addition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the Rinse: Always rinse rice to avoid a gummy texture.
• Rushing the Pressure Release: Allowing a full Natural Pressure Release ensures tender beans and robust flavors.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

This “Easy Instant Pot Red Beans And Rice” is a no-fail recipe that brings the taste of the South to your table with ease and efficiency. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive dish for guests.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use canned beans instead of dried?

Yes, you can use canned beans. Reduce the cooking time to 15 minutes on High Pressure.

Q2: What can I substitute for andouille sausage?

Smoked sausage or kielbasa can be used as substitutes for andouille sausage.

Q3: Is this recipe spicy?

The level of heat is mild, but you can adjust the Creole or Cajun seasoning to your preference.

For more delicious recipes and cooking tips, don’t forget to explore our other posts at Easton Recipes Blog. Happy cooking!

Easy Instant Pot Red Beans And Rice

A hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This Instant Pot version makes it quick and easy!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Pressure Release Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Creole

Calories: 520

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the rice

• 390 g basmati rice
• 500 ml water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 0.125 tsp salt

For the red beans

• 2 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion diced
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• 1 medium green bell pepper diced
• 1 medium red bell pepper diced
• 2 stalks celery diced
• 454 g dry red kidney beans
• 1 tsp salt or more to taste
• 0.5 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1-2 tsp Creole seasoning Cajun seasoning
• 0.5 tsp dried thyme
• 2 pieces bay leaves
• 1750 ml water
• 454 g andouille sausage cut into thin slices

Equipment

• Instant Pot
• Trivet
• Aluminum Foil

Method

 

1. Start by rinsing and draining the rice.
2. Add 2 cups of water to the Instant Pot inner pot.
3. Add the rice, salt and 2 cups of water to an Instant Pot safe dish and stir to combine.
4. Add a long-legged trivet to the Instant Pot. Place the dish with the rice on top of the trivet. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and use a fork to poke a few holes to allow for slight ventilation.
5. Close the lid and pressure cook on High for 5 mins and perform a 10 min Natural Pressure Release. Manually release any remaining pressure and then open the lid.
6. Remove the dish with the rice, set aside and let cool while still covered for 10 mins.
7. Turn Sauté mode on, once hot, add the olive oil.
8. Once the oil is simmering, add the sliced sausage and saute for a few mins, until golden brown. If needed, cook in batches. Remove sausages and put them on a plate.
9. Next, add the onion and saute for 1 min.
10. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 secs, stirring with your spatula.
11. Add the sausage and the rest of the ingredients to the Instant Pot.
12. Cover the Instant Pot with the lid, lock it and cook on High Pressure for 35 mins.
13. Once done cooking, perform a Natural Pressure Release, which should take about 25 mins.
14. Serve the bean mixture over cooked rice with fresh chopped parsley.

Notes

This dish can be easily customized by adjusting the spices or adding more vegetables. Serve with freshly chopped parsley for added flavor and color.