Ingredients (18)

1 pound (450g) red kidney beans

Kosher salt

1 tablespoon (15ml) vegetable oil or lard

1 pound (about 450g) cooked andouille sausage , cut into 1/2-inch disks

1 large onion , finely chopped (about 12 ounces; 340 g )

1 green bell pepper , stemmed, seeded, and finely chopped (about 8 ounces; 225 g )

4 ribs celery , finely chopped (about 8 ounces; 225 g )

4 medium cloves garlic , minced

1/2 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon (3 to 15g) ground cayenne pepper (depending on how hot you like it)

1 teaspoon (about 4 g ) ground sage

Freshly ground black pepper

1 smoked ham hock (optional)

8 ounces (225g) pickled pork shoulder or rind (optional; see note)

4 sprigs fresh thyme

3 bay leaves

Hot sauce , such as Crystal or Frank's, to taste

Cider vinegar , to taste (optional; see note)

Cooked white rice , for serving