Traditional New Orleans Red Beans & Rice

Ingredients

• 1 lb red beans (preferably Camellia brand)
• 3 onions
• finely chopped
• 1 big ham bone
• 3 lbs andouille sausages
• 3 bay leaves
• 2 tablespoons thyme
• 5 garlic cloves
• mashed
• salt
• cooked rice

Instructions

1. Soak the red beans overnight or at least 3 hours in cold water.
2. Drain off the water and put in a large pot and cover with water.
3. In a skillet, brown the meats then add the onions and continue to cook until the onions are slightly browned.
4. Add the remaining ingredients to the red beans and bring it to a boil then reduce to a simmer and cook for 2 1/2 to 3 hours until creamy.
5. Serve with cooked rice and hot sauce.