From Andouille sausage to fried green tomatoes, these sides are ideal. If you’ve ever had red beans and rice, you must be familiar with Louisiana cuisine. And if it’s from Louisiana, you can bet it has a story behind it! Did you know that red beans and rice is traditionally eaten on Mondays? Yup! This combo will get you full and satisfied on the busiest day of the week. It’s also easy to make, so it’s perfect for a hectic day! Every family has its own secret red beans and rice recipe, but this soul food is always rich, thick, and packed with Cajun spices and seasonings. Of course, a Louisiana classic like this will need the right side dishes. Wondering what to serve with your red beans and rice? Keep on reading for 12 delectable sides!
1. Andouille Sausage
The go-to meat for red beans and rice will always be Andouille sausage. Serve it on the side or cook it with the beans. It’s a sure way to blend in those garlicky and smoky flavors from the sausage, which makes a more complex and layered dish. If you can’t find Andouille sausage, try Kielbasa! It has a similar strong and slightly spicy taste.
2. Cornbread
If you’re looking for a real Louisiana experience, serving cornbread with your red beans and rice is the way to go! Your red beans and rice will burst with flavor, especially if you make it with sausage. So a simple, classic cornbread is the perfect complement. If you’re feeding a crowd, try these simple cornbread muffins. They make mingling in the yard much easier!
3. Fried Chicken
A warm bed of rice, fresh-from-the-pot rich and saucy red beans, and extra crunchy fried chicken? What more could you ask for? Red beans and rice with fried chicken is the ultimate comfort food duo. You’ll love this dish! Opt for buttermilk fried chicken, or kick things up a notch with a bit more heat. Either way, this meal is so good, you probably won’t have any leftovers!
4. Fried Pork Chops
When serving fried pork chops with your red beans and rice, you have to season them right… with Cajun flavors, of course! The secret to perfectly fried pork chops is never to overcook them, so the meat stays tender and juicy. Make sure to submerge your chops in extra hot oil, and cook them for no more than 6 minutes!
5. Coleslaw
For a dish as savory as red beans and rice, tasty and crunchy coleslaw is the way to go. Coleslaw balances out the meal so well, you’ll definitely go back for seconds! For rich and creamy coleslaw, try using sour cream or Greek yogurt instead of vinegar. Add in the crunchy shredded cabbage, and your slaw will have the perfect tanginess that won’t overpower the red beans. Or grab a bag of coleslaw mix for lightning fast prep. You’ll love it, and so will the entire family.
6. Collard Greens with Bacon
Even if you’re not the biggest vegetable fan, down South, they really know how to get you to love your greens. Pair collard greens and bacon with your red beans and rice, and you’ll have a complete meal with veggies, carbs, and protein. For this combo, I like to get my bacon extra crispy before combining it with the collard greens. It’s a great way to add crunch to every bite!
7. Fried Green Tomatoes
Here’s a Louisiana gem you might not have heard of before: fried green tomatoes. Yep, you read that right. And they’re absolutely delicious! The best part is that you only need 15 minutes to make them. Simply slice your tomatoes and coat with flour, dip in buttermilk and eggs, and coat again with cornmeal and breadcrumbs. Deep-fry them, and you’ll have a crunchy and tasty way to add acidity to your red beans and rice.
8. Corn on the Cob
Savory and spicy red beans with sweet corn on the cob? Yes, please! There are so many ways you can season your corn so it matches the rich flavors of your red beans. Go the quick, easy, and classic route with just butter, salt, and pepper. For a twist, try grilled Mexican-style corn with chili, cheese, cilantro, and a fresh squeeze of lime. Whatever flavors you choose for your corn, it’s going to be a real treat!
9. Pulled Pork
For meat lovers out there, here’s another pork dish that’s sure to satisfy. Make a sweet and tangy sauce for your pulled pork for a winning variation of pork and beans! You can even cook your pulled pork along with the beans to make sure all those wonderful flavors come together. For best results, I like to get the pork nice and tender with a slow cooker before adding it to my beans. Trust me, it’s a meal you will not forget anytime soon!
10. Brisket
If you have some leftover brisket in your kitchen, this is a great way to use it all up! Beef brisket goes especially well with red beans and rice. Whether you serve it on the side or recook it with the beans, it’ll make your taste buds happy! To balance out the strong savory flavors, pair the meal with collard greens, coleslaw, or corn on the cob.
11. Smoked Ribs
Are you extra EXTRA hungry? You’ll love this smoked ribs and red beans and rice combo. Seriously, save this one for when you have a big appetite because not only is it super filling, it’s also a combo you won’t be able to get enough of! If you’re going to a barbecue potluck and ribs are on the menu, consider bringing red beans and rice as a side. Friends and family will approve!
12. Steamed Veggies
You might think that steamed veggies are too simple, but that’s exactly why they go so well with red beans and rice. Veggies are a healthy addition that won’t take away from the bold flavors of the red beans and rice. Try broccoli, cauliflower, or peas. Baby carrots or carrot sticks are perfect for dipping into that sauce, too. Click on a star to rate it!
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