March 22 is statewide Red Beans and Rice Day
Published 9:00 am Sunday, March 7, 2021
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Gov. John Bel Edwards has signed a proclamation that Monday, March 22, 2021, will be Red Beans and Rice Day across the state of Louisiana.
Three iconic brands, Cajun Country Rice, Camellia Brand and Savoie’s® Foods welcome Gov. Edwards’ efforts to spread the red beans and rice love.
Robert Trahan, co-owner of Falcon Rice Mill and Cajun Country Rice based in Crowley, said Gov. Edwards’ proclamation adds even more fun and energy to the effort to put red beans and rice on every table in the state — especially on Monday, March 22.
“As Gov. Edwards said in his proclamation, red beans, rice and sausage is homegrown Louisiana comfort food,” Trahan said. “And, in these days, who doesn’t need some extra comfort?”
In conjunction with Red Beans and Rice Mondays, all three brands are partnering with Second Harvest and Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank to make donations, based on purchases of Cajun Country Rice, Camellia Beans and Savoie’s® Smoked Andouille Sausage, through Feb. 26.
Shoppers are invited to eat well and do good by choosing this delicious Louisiana trio. Through Feb. 26, every purchase of Camellia Red Beans, Savoie’s® Sausage and Cajun Country Rice will benefit Second Harvest and the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank. Participating retailers include Rouses, Winn-Dixie and Albertsons.
“We are thrilled that Gov. Edwards has seen fit to help us shine a light on this iconic Louisiana food and its nearly 200-year history,” said Freddie Lafleur, CEO of Savoie’s® Foods based in Opelousas. “We want to do our part to make sure as many people as possible can join in the meal on March 22 and beyond.”
Most agree that the history of red beans and rice goes back to 19th Century New Orleans and the one-two punch of families serving pork at Sunday lunch and then looking for an easy meal on Mondays, the traditional wash day.
“Here in New Orleans, we’ve been at red beans and rice on Mondays for a long time. We know some folks across the state do the same, but we invite everyone to join us,” said Vince Hayward, CEO of L. H. Hayward & Company, owner of Camellia Brand, based in New Orleans. “There’s value beyond words in sitting down at the table with your family to a delicious home-cooked meal of red beans, rice and sausage.”
Recipes to make your own red beans and rice can be found here.
RED BEANS, SAUSAGE AND RICE ART COMPETITION
In an effort to educate the younger generation and bring the Monday tradition of red beans and rice to the top of mind for adults, the three companies have decided to host an art competition, Monday’s Favorite Meal: Red Beans and Rice Art Competition. The contest will run through March 22, 2021— and is open to fifth graders and up across the state of Louisiana. For more details, go here.
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ABOUT the red beans and rice campaign: The trifecta of iconic Louisiana brands: Cajun Country Rice, Camellia Brand, and Savoie’s® Foods have come together to keep the Louisiana tradition of red beans and rice alive and well. When it comes to making an unforgettable bowl of red beans, sausage & rice, these three will deliver a Louisiana-grandmother approved authentic dish every time. Look for these brands in a grocery store near you so that you can make and serve Monday’s favorite meal at home. To learn more, go to RedBeansAndRiceMondays.com.