Red Beans with Tomato Sauce – The Black Family Reunion Cookbook – Black Foodie Finder

A Hearty Southern Red Beans Classic

Tender red beans simmered in a rich tomato sauce with savory ham, garlic, onions, and warm spices make Red Beans with Tomato Sauce a comforting Southern favorite.

Featured as a Heritage Recipe in The Black Family Reunion Cookbook, this simple, slow-simmered dish brings traditional Southern flavors to the family table.

Ingredients

(Listed exactly as they appear in the cookbook.)

• 1 pound dried red beans
• Ham ends, skin, bone or bacon
• 2 quarts water
• 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 red pepper pods
• 1 clove garlic, chopped
• 1 bay leaf
• Several cumin seeds
• Salt and pepper

Makes: 4 to 6 servings

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Soak the beans. Place the dried red beans in water and let them soak for 2 to 3 hours. Drain before cooking.
2. Prepare the meat. Finely chop the ham or bacon and place it in a large saucepan.
3. Start the broth. Add 2 quarts of water to the saucepan, cover, and bring to a boil. Cook for 10 minutes to develop a savory base.
4. Add the beans and seasonings. Stir in the drained red beans, tomato sauce, chopped onion, red pepper pods, garlic, bay leaf, cumin seeds, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer until tender. Cover and cook over low heat for approximately 3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beans are soft and the sauce is flavorful. Add more water or tomato sauce if needed.
6. Finish and serve. Remove the bay leaf, adjust the seasoning, and serve warm.

Pro Tips & Suggestions

• Soak the beans ahead of time for more even cooking.
• Use smoked ham or bacon for deeper Southern-style flavor.
• Adjust the red pepper pods to control the heat.
• Add extra tomato sauce for a richer, saucier consistency.
• Serve over steamed rice with cornbread or collard greens for a satisfying meal.

About the Recipe

Red Beans with Tomato Sauce reflects the tradition of slow-cooked, flavorful meals in Southern and African American kitchens. Combining affordable pantry staples with savory meat and spices, this comforting dish is ideal for family dinners.

Featured as a Heritage Recipe in The Black Family Reunion Cookbook, it celebrates the resourcefulness and cooking traditions passed down through generations.

The Black Family Reunion Cookbook | National Council of Negro Women

Where to Find This Recipe

This recipe is adapted from The Black Family Reunion Cookbook: Recipes & Food Memories, published by Simon & Schuster and produced by the National Council of Negro Women, Inc. The cookbook preserves African American culinary heritage through family recipes, regional favorites, and traditional Southern dishes.