What Should You Serve With Red Beans and Rice?

Do you have no idea what to serve with red beans and rice? Maybe you’d want to include this hearty, healthful dinner into your family’s meal plan. But what complements red beans and rice? Don’t worry, because that’s where our collection of delectable side dishes comes in.

Red beans and rice is a typical Creole cuisine that is said to have originated in 18th-century Louisiana. Nowadays, red beans and rice are a mainstay of New Orleans cuisine and a popular menu item.

This traditional Southern dish is composed with kidney beans, rice, sausage, and spices including cayenne pepper and paprika. The warm, hearty tastes go wonderfully with a variety of sides. Continue reading to learn about more fantastic ideas!

Excellent Side Dishes for Red Beans and Rice

1. Roasted Chicken

Oven-roasted chicken is always a safe bet. That is why it is an excellent option for serving with red beans and rice. Everyone enjoys a juicy, well-seasoned, crispy-on-the-outside roasted chicken.

The greatest aspect is that you may season your roasted chicken whatever you want to provide the tastes you want. The flavor combination of juicy, crisp roast chicken with starchy, spicy red beans and rice is absolutely divine.

2. Beef Brisket

When it comes to red beans and rice, nothing beats a hearty complement. And beef brisket is no different. Slow-cooked delicate beef brisket goes well with red beans and rice.

Every mouthful of beef brisket is flavorful and melts in your mouth. And the brisket’s deep, meaty taste complements the gently spicy beans and fluffy rice nicely.

3. Coleslaw

The chilled, creamy texture of coleslaw contrasts well with the robust tastes of red beans and rice. In addition, the cabbage in coleslaw is high in vitamin C, which aids with immunity.

Serve coleslaw with a vinegar-based dressing to bring out the flavors of this meal. The acidity will enhance the flavors of the beans and grains. For an added kick, add a dash of spicy sauce or Dijon mustard to the dressing. This delicious combination will satisfy every pallet.

4. Fried Green Tomatoes

For a really Louisiana-style supper, pair fried green tomatoes with your red beans and rice. They’re very wonderful and only take 15 minutes to make.

The acidity of the tomatoes balances out the deep, earthy tastes of the beans. The crunchy texture of the fried tomatoes contrasts well with the creamy rice.

5. Corn on the Cob 

When deciding what to serve with red beans and rice, look no further than corn on the cob. With hearty, spicy red beans and rice and deliciously moist corn on the cob? Please, yes.

To compliment the deep taste of the red beans and rice, season your corn in a variety of ways. A simple, basic, and traditional choice is butter, pepper, and salt. For a one-of-a-kind and delicious experience, combine freshly cut cilantro, cheese, and a dash of lime juice.

6. Pulled Pork

This one’s for the pork fans. Some individuals prefer to add pork to their red beans and rice to enhance the taste of the meal. But, if you want a fall-apart soft textured pork, slow-cook it separately before serving it with your main course.

Put the pork shoulder, onions, garlic, and stock in the slow cooker. To tenderize the beef, some people propose adding Coca-Cola instead of stock. Cook till very soft, then season with salt and pepper and take apart with a fork. Serve with hot red beans and rice.

7. Fried Pork Chops

If you want to increase the protein content of your supper, pork chops are one of the easiest side dishes to prepare. They’re also a terrific alternative for what to offer with red beans and rice.

The tender fried pork complements the creamy beans and fluffy rice well. And the crunchy coating contrasts well with the other soft elements. Moreover, the pig fat provides a depth of flavor that truly brings the meal to life.

8. Corn Bread

The inclusion of cornbread enhances the substantial, savory red beans and rice recipe. Cornbread tastes sweet and buttery. The crunchy bread edges offer a distinct feel to the dish.

Cornbread absorbs any sauce from your main course. And the mild sweetness complements the spice of the beans and sausage well. Serve the cornbread warm, with a pat of butter on top for added flavor.

9. Shrimp Scampi

If you’re looking for something to go with your red beans and rice, this is a great option. Shrimp scampi is cooked in a sauce that includes butter, garlic, and white wine, among other ingredients.

Adding fresh herbs like parsley and chives will give the meal a pleasant blast of flavor and perfume. The sharpness of the lemon juice and the sweetness of the white wine wonderfully enhance the robust red beans and rice.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a protein-rich side dish to go with your red beans and rice, try chicken, beef, or pork. Meats that have been slow-cooked or roasted are the finest. Stick to coleslaw, corn on the cob, or fried green tomatoes if you’re searching for vegan choices.

No matter which of these scrumptious side dishes you pick, your red beans and rice lunch will be a success.