Red Beans and Rice Soup

Basically I just took our traditional red beans and rice recipe and modified it to a soupier version. It is still very creamy and hearty. Great to warm you up on a cold day!

Red Beans and Rice Soup

1 medium yellow onion, chopped
3-4 celery ribs, chopped
4-5 large cloves of garlic, minced
1 lb of andouille or polska kielbasa sausage chopped (I only use about 2/3 of it.)
2 bay leaves
1 t chopped dried rosemary
1/2 t dried thyme
1 t cayenne pepper
1/4 t oregano
1/4 t basil
salt and pepper
1 carton of chicken broth
4 cans dark red kidney beans
1 T Crystal Hot Sauce (or your favorite)
2 Cups cooked white rice

Pour about 2 T of cooking oil into a 5qt pot. Heat and add onions and celery. Cook for about 3-4 min on med-high heat. Add garlic and cook 2 more minutes. Add sausage and spices and continue cooking for about 5 more minutes. Pour in carton of broth and red beans(juice included).
Bring to a boil and allow to simmer uncovered for about an hour stirring occasionally. After one hour, scoop about 2 cups of the soup into a blender and blend the beans. Try to avoid much sausage getting in the blender. Add back to pot and stir in hot sauce and rice. Best served with garlic bread.
Makes 6-8 servings.