Authentic Louisiana Red Beans and Rice

Why I Love This Recipe
Ingredients You'll Need
* 1 pound dry kidney beans
* 1/4 cup olive oil
* 1 large onion, chopped
* 1 green bell pepper, chopped
* 2 tablespoons minced garlic
* 2 stalks celery, chopped
* 6 cups water
* 2 bay leaves
* 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1/4 teaspoon dried sage
* 1 tablespoon dried parsley
* 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
* 1 pound andouille sausage, sliced
* 4 cups water
* 2 cups long grain white rice
Directions
1. Rinse beans, and then soak in a large pot of water overnight.
2. In a skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Cook onion, bell pepper, garlic, and celery in olive oil for 3 to 4 minutes.
3. Rinse beans, and transfer to a large pot with 6 cups water. Stir cooked vegetables into beans. Season with bay leaves, cayenne pepper, thyme, sage, parsley, and Cajun seasoning. Bring to a boil, and then reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer for 2 1/2 hours.
4. Stir sausage into beans, and continue to simmer for 30 minutes.
5. Meanwhile, prepare the rice. In a saucepan, bring water and rice to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes. Serve beans over steamed white rice.