Learning how to thicken red beans and rice is essential if it’s your first time making this dish. Slow-cooked meals such as these serve as flavorful comfort foods and lead to warm and happy memories. When new to this meal, you may not get it right on your first try. And getting the consistency of the dish correct might be one of your headaches.
Not to worry. Because this article will provide you with a detailed guide on achieving the ideal thickness for your red beans and rice recipe.
What Is Red Beans and Rice?
Red beans and rice is one of the staple dishes of Louisiana. It was historically made for Monday night dinners. This is because Monday was the day that households did their laundry.
As such, supper had to be a dish that could be left to cook unattended. So, while the women were busy washing clothing, the pot of red beans and rice could simmer on the stove.
This famous dish is flavored with pork bones, often left over from Sunday dinner. Rice, red beans, onions, bell peppers, and celery are at the heart of this dish. Spices and herbs including thyme, bay leaf, and cayenne pepper are also included in this meal. And meats such as ham, sausage (most commonly andouille), and Tasso ham are frequently added.
How To Thicken Red Beans And Rice
if you intend to make this traditional meal nice and creamy, you’ll need to know how to thicken red beans and rice. The dish can be tricky to prepare, especially when using too much water. Fortunately, it’s easy to thicken the consistency.
In fact, there are a few options for thickening this dish, and here are some of our favorites:
- Mashed Beans: Transfer half a cup of cooked beans to a small bowl and use a fork to mash. Fold your crushed beans back into the pot and let it simmer until it’s nice and thick. You could also crush a few beans between the side of the pot and the back of your spoon.
- Cornstarch: Add 2 tablespoons of cornstarch to the same amount of stock or water. This should create a sludge-like mixture which you can stir into the dish toward the end of cooking. Then allow it to continue cooking until it’s thick enough.
- Let The Moisture Cook Out: Simmer your red beans and rice longer over very low heat, so it doesn’t burn. Be sure to remove the lid to release the steam. This will allow the moisture to evaporate slowly.
Conclusion
So, try the methods mentioned above when your red beans and rice dish is too watery. These approaches to thickening the dish will ensure you enjoy a delicious and creamy meal. And if you’re still unsure how to thicken red beans and rice, read this article to discover the simple steps required.