Red beans and rice have long been a southern tradition. Though the dish is associated with louisiana, similar dishes of beans and rice and pilaus strongly influenced by enslaved africans are found across the south. The dish is easy on the budget and provides a fair amount of protein and many nutrients. In new orleans, the dish is traditionally served on monday nights. These slow cooker red beans are flavored with a variety of vegetables and a ham bone or ham hocks. Add some leftover diced ham or crumbled bacon to the dish if you have it. The beans are served over rice with browned smoked sausage, or add the sliced and browned smoked sausage to the beans. Andouille sausage is an excellent choice.