Red Beans and Rice

1 lb dry Kidney beans

1 Tbsp olive oil

1 large onion, chopped

1 green bell pepper, chopped

2 Tbsp minced garlic

3 stalks celery, chopped

6 cups water

2 bay leaves

1/2 tsp cayenne pepper

1 tsp dried thyme

1 Tbsp dried parsley

1 tsp Cajun seasoning (Creole seasoning)

1 lb sausage (I use deer sausage)

2 Tbsp tomatoe paste

.

Rinse beans and let them soak in a large pot overnight.

In a skillet with the olive oil, cook the onions, bell pepper, garlic and celery for about 5 minutes.

Rinse the beans and put them in a large pot with 6 cups of water. Add the cooked vegetables and season with the bay leaves, cayenne pepper, thyme, parsley and Cajun seasoning. Bring to a boil and then reduce the heat to a medium-low. Simmer for about 2 1/2 hours.

Add the sausage and simmer an additional 30 minutes. Add the tomatoe paste.

Serve over rice.