Follow these straightforward steps to create Authentic Louisiana Red Beans with Rice:

1. Soak the Beans: Rinse the dried red beans thoroughly and soak them in water overnight. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook until softened, around 5-7 minutes.
3. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Incorporate Sausage and Ham: Add the sliced smoked sausage and ham hock. Stir for a few minutes until browned.
5. Combine the Beans: Add the soaked red beans to the pot along with the chicken broth (or water).
6. Season the Mixture: Add the bay leaf, thyme, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
7. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender.
8. Adjust Seasonings: Check for seasoning and adjust salt, pepper, and cayenne to your preference. Remove bay leaf and ham hock before serving.
9. Mash Some Beans: For a creamier texture, roughly mash some of the beans against the side of the pot with a fork or potato masher.
10. Serve Over Rice: When ready to serve, scoop generous portions of the red beans mixture over a bed of cooked white rice.