Are red beans and kidney beans the same thing?

No, red beans and kidney beans are actually different types of beans. The main difference? Red beans are smaller and rounder (like pinto beans), but red in color. However, these beans still are fairly similar and can generally be used interchangeably in recipes that call for either dried or canned beans.

See Superfood: Beans for nutrition information and recipes for both types of beans and All-Star Bean Main Dishes for main dish bean recipes.

Recipe: Cajun Red Beans and Rice