Red Beans and Rice

Bahan-bahan (6 porsi)

• 1 pound dried red beans
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 13 ounces andouille sausage (sliced about 1/2-inch thick)
• 1 large onion (chopped (2 cups chopped))
• 1 medium green bell pepper (chopped)
• 1 large celery rib (chopped)
• 6 cloves garlic (finely chopped or minced)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 teaspoons dried Italian herbs
• 1 teaspoon cajun seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1 pinch cayenne pepper (or to taste, optional)
• 3 sprigs thyme
• 1 meaty smoked ham hock ( or ham shanks, about 1 1/2 - 2 pounds)
• 6 cups water
• 2 bay leaves
• 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley
• 2 tablespoons green onions (chopped )
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon cracked pepper (or to taste)