Cajun Red Beans and Rice

1 (16 ounce)package pre-soaked, drained Small Red Beans
1 pd Cajun Sausage (I use regular Smoked Sausage from Hillshire Farm)
1 cup diced onions
1 diced Garlic
2 quarts Water
1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
1/4 cup dried parsley flakes
1 Beef Bouillon Cube
1 1/2 tablespoon Cajun Seasoning (to taste)
1 tablespoon cayenne pepper (to taste)
Salt, Pepper, Garlic Salt (to taste)

(You can add Large Shrimp, optional)

Beans:
Quick Soak - Place 1 pound beans (about 2 cups) in large saucepan with 6-8 cups water. Add seasonings (I don't measure): Salt, Pepper, Garlic Salt, Garlic Powder, Cajun Seasoning, 1 Beef Bouillon Cube. Bring to rapid boil on medium-high heat; boil 2 more minutes. Remove from heat; cover and let stand 1 hour. Drain and rinse beans (discard soak water).

Cut sausage into 1/4 inch thick slices, and brown in a large pot (the pot needs to be able to hold 2 qts of water plus ingredients). Add diced onion and garlic to sausage and cook about 5 minutes. Add beans, water, tomato sauce, and seasonings. Bring to a boil on medium-high heat. Cover, reduce heat low-medium heat and simmer 2-2 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally, or until beans are tender. (If using Shrimp add the last 30 minutes of cooking). Thirty minutes before serving, prepare rice, and serve beans over rice. (Makes about 16 cups)

Note: Season this dish to your liking, and I have also added things to this dish in the past if I have them on hand; example green bell pepper, diced tomatoes, or something that might taste good in a cajun dish, experiment and enjoy!


Main recipe idea from Publix Small Red Beans Package.