Walk into any New Orleans restaurant on a Monday, and you’re likely to find red beans and rice on the specials board. Step into any local home, and you might catch the aroma of beans slowly simmering on the stove. This isn’t just a coincidence – it’s a cultural tradition that tells the story of domestic life, cultural fusion, and community in New Orleans.
The Historical Roots
The Monday red beans tradition dates back to the 19th century when Monday was traditionally wash day in New Orleans. Women needed a meal that could cook itself while they tackled the labor-intensive task of washing clothes by hand. Red beans were the perfect solution: they could simmer unattended all day, getting better with each passing hour, seasoned by the ham bone left over from Sunday dinner.
The choice of red beans (rather than other legumes) reflects our Caribbean connections, particularly with Haiti, where red beans are a staple. When thousands of Haitians arrived in New Orleans in the early 1800s, they brought their culinary traditions with them, including their love of red beans.
The Perfect Pot
Ask any New Orleanian about their red beans recipe, and you’ll likely hear, “Well, the way my mama made them…” Every family has their own method, but most agree on a few essentials:
- The Holy Trinity (onions, celery, and bell pepper)
- Garlic (the more, the better)
- Ham hock, pickled meat, or andouille for seasoning
- Bay leaves
- Long, slow cooking – never rushed
- Creamy texture, achieved by mashing some beans against the pot’s side
The beans are always served over rice – another Caribbean influence that became a Louisiana staple. The rice isn’t an afterthought; it’s an integral part of the dish, ideally cooked to fluffy perfection to soak up the creamy bean gravy.
Modern Monday Tradition
Today, the tradition continues both at home and in restaurants across the city. While modern washing machines have eliminated the practical reason for Monday red beans, the cultural significance remains strong. Many offices and schools serve red beans on Mondays, and local musicians know they can count on a plate at their Monday night gig.
Some beloved spots for Monday red beans include:
- Mandina’s on Canal
- Joey K’s on Magazine
- Dooky Chase’s in Treme
- Cafe Reconcile in Central City
- The legendary Buster Holmes’ recipe lives on in various restaurants
Weekend Prep Checklist
Planning to cook red beans tomorrow? Here’s your Sunday checklist:
- Pick up beans, trinity vegetables, and seasoning meat today (most grocery stores get busy Monday morning!)
- Sort your beans tonight to remove any stones or broken beans
- Soak your beans overnight in cool water
- Chop your trinity and store in the fridge to get ahead
- Check your seasoning supply: bay leaves, garlic, Creole seasoning
- Have enough rice on hand for tomorrow
Starting Your Own Tradition
Want to join this centuries-old tradition? Here’s how to make perfect Monday red beans:
- Start with dry beans (never canned)
- Soak them overnight (some skip this step, but it helps)
- Use plenty of seasoning meat
- Don’t rush – let them simmer at least 3-4 hours
- Stir occasionally and add water as needed
- They’re done when they’re creamy, with some beans falling apart
More Than Just a Meal
Red beans and rice on Monday isn’t just about food – it’s about community. It’s a reminder of our city’s ability to create beauty and sustenance from simple ingredients and necessity. It’s about family recipes passed down through generations, and the way food connects us to our history and each other.
Whether you’re a newcomer to New Orleans or a lifelong resident, making or eating red beans on Monday is a way to participate in a living tradition that spans generations and crosses all social boundaries. As Louis Armstrong famously signed his letters, “Red beans and ricely yours.”
Red Beans Beyond Monday
While Monday is traditional, red beans have earned their place as a year-round staple. You’ll find them at festival food booths, wedding receptions (yes, really), and even upscale restaurants doing modern interpretations. The Monday tradition has spawned events like Bean Madness (a tournament-style competition for the best red beans) and organizations like the Red Beans Parade, which marches on Lundi Gras with costumes made from dried beans.
This post is part of our “Why We…” series, exploring the traditions that make New Orleans unique. Join us next week for another deep dive into the customs and culture of the Crescent City.
