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(Lafayette, LA) — The 19th century Louisiana tradition of Red Beans & Rice is alive and well thanks to iconic Louisiana brands, Cajun Country Rice and Camellia Beans. This delicious duo has come together again for the Red Beans & Rice Mondays campaign, delivering a Louisiana-grandmother approved recipe to folks across the state. In celebration of this momentous occasion, Governor John Bel Edwards is scheduled to officially declare October 24 as statewide “Red Beans & Rice Day” via proclamation on the Capitol steps.

Both multi-generational, family-owned companies, Cajun Country Rice and Camellia Beans have endured through economic depressions, pandemics and numerous hurricanes, facing new challenges along the way, constantly adapting to market conditions. And one tradition has remained the same through it all — Red Beans & Rice Mondays. While the jury is still out on where the tradition truly originated from, red beans & rice today aren’t exclusive to any particular race, class, age or political group and have continued to be a staple throughout Louisiana homes. “Here in New Orleans, we’ve been enjoying red beans & rice on Mondays for a long time,” 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.”

According to the USA Rice Federation, Louisiana is the 3rd largest rice-producing state, contributing over $308 million to the state economy and providing thousands of jobs. Robert Trahan, co-owner of Falcon Rice Mill and Cajun Country Rice and third-generation business owner says, “We’re proud to continue the legacy of rice production and bringing local products to those across the state. Red beans & rice is a simple dish to make and such a crowd-pleaser, so we definitely don’t see it going anywhere anytime soon!” Trahan adds, “Recipes have been passed down generation after generation, just like our companies, and we hope that this campaign can help in keeping that tradition alive.”

Together, these family-owned and operated businesses will celebrate with elected officials and cooking enthusiasts on the Capitol steps as “Red Beans & Rice Monday” is officially declared on October 24, making its official mark in history. Cajun Country Rice and Camellia Beans will also present Second Harvest and the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank with a generous donation made possible by local purchases of their products, providing 100,000 meals to families in need. Following the proclamation, red beans & rice will be served to guests.

To learn more about Red Beans & Rice Mondays, please visit www.RedBeansandRiceMondays.com.

 

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About “Red Beans & Rice Mondays” Campaign: The delicious duo of iconic Louisiana brands, Cajun Country Rice and Camellia Brand, 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 and rice, these two will deliver a Louisiana-grandmother approved authentic dish every time. Look for these brands in a grocery store near you so you can make and serve Monday’s favorite meal at home. To learn more, visit www.mondaytradition.com.