Low-fat Louisiana Red Beans

Ingredients

• 1 lb. red beans, washed and drained
• 2 quarts water
• 3 ounces smoked turkey cut in 3 or 4 pieces
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 8 cloves chopped garlic
• 1/4 cup chopped celery
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tsp. salt (optional)
• 1/4 tsp. coarsely ground black pepper
• 1/4 tsp. red pepper

Directions

Place red beans and water in a large pot. Bring to a boil, cover and let stand for 1 hour. Drain water from beans, rinse and add fresh water. Bring to a boil, lower heat and let simmer. Cook chopped vegetables and smoked turkey in the microwave or in pan on top of the stove until vegetables are tender and translucent. Add cooked vegetables and turkey and seasonings to beans. Continue cooking until beans are soft and creamy (about 1 hour). Remove bay leaves before serving. Add additional chopped parsley before serving if desired.

Nutrient Content per 1/2 cup = Protein 8.2 g, Fat .4 g, Carbohydrates 21 g , Cholesterol 0
Diabetic Exchange = 1 starch and 1 very lean meat

Source: LSU AgCenter