Red Beans and Rice

Mardi Gras is coming soon, and what better way to celebrate with some good Red Beans and Rice.

2 cups dry red beans
2 cloves garlic
1 onion, chopped
2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
Salt
2 bay leaves
Cayenne pepper to taste
fresh or smoked ham hock
1-2 pounds andouille sausage

Wash beans and soak overnight. Drain. Cover beans and all ingredients (except sausage) with cold water. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer at least 2 and a half hours. Add cut sausage and continue to simmer for 30 minutes. Take out the ham hock when you put the sausage in and let it cool a little. Pull off the meat from the ham hock and add to the beans. Serve with steamed rice and cornbread.