How do you make a Cajun red sauce?

* 2 tablespoons olive or vegetable oil

* 1 cup chopped onion

* 1 cup chopped green bell pepper

* 1 cup chopped celery

* 2 cloves garlic, minced

* 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning

* 1 teaspoon sugar

* 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes

* 6-ounce can tomato sauce

* 2 tablespoons hot sauce (or more to taste)

* 1 cup cooked red beans (optional, for a thicker sauce)

* Salt and pepper to taste

* Pinch dried thyme

* 1 bay leaf

* 2 tablespoons corn starch (mixed with 1/4 cup cold water)

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.

2. Add the onion, bell pepper, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.

3. Add the garlic, Cajun seasoning, sugar, and thyme.

4. Cook for 1-2 minutes more.

5. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, hot sauce, red beans (if using), bay leaf and salt and pepper to taste.

6. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes.

7. Add slurry and cook for 5 minutes more until the sauce has thickened.

8. Enjoy with rice, pasta, or your favorite side dish.