Bean stew with smoked meat and sausages

Bean stew with smoked meat and sausages – A traditional recipe full of flavor and history

Who doesn't love a comforting meal, rich in aromas and intense flavors? Bean stew with smoked meat and sausages is one of those dishes that invites you to sit at the table with loved ones and enjoy every bite. This recipe is not just a simple dish; it carries with it the tradition and warmth of home, making it an excellent choice for cold days or family gatherings. Moreover, it is an easy-to-prepare dish, and the ingredients are accessible, making it ideal for any cooking enthusiast.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients:
- 500 g beans (preferably white or yellow)
- 200 g homemade smoked meat (e.g., bacon or ribs)
- 2 cabanos sausages (or any other preferred smoked sausages)
- 1 carrot (medium, preferably fresh)
- 1 medium white onion
- 1 bell pepper (any color, but preferably red for an extra splash of color)
- 1 parsley root (or celery, if you want a more intense flavor)
- 2 garden tomatoes (or 400 g canned tomatoes)
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
- Salt, to taste
- A few bay leaves
- A few sprigs of fresh dill and parsley

Preparing the bean stew with smoked meat and sausages

Step 1: Preparing the beans
To achieve a delicious stew, it is essential to take care of the beans. Start by washing the beans in several waters to remove impurities. Once this step is complete, place the beans in a bowl of water and let them soak overnight. This process not only reduces cooking time but also helps with the digestibility of the beans.

Step 2: Boiling the beans
The next day, after the beans have soaked, drain the water and place them in a large pot, covering them with fresh water and letting them boil. When the beans are almost cooked (about 45 minutes), add the grated carrot and parsley root, finely chopped onion, diced bell pepper, and salt to taste. These vegetables will provide a special flavor to your dish.

Step 3: Adding the tomatoes
After about 15 minutes of boiling, add the grated tomatoes (or canned tomatoes) to the pot. The tomatoes will add a pleasant acidity and enhance the color of the stew.

Step 4: Browning the smoked meat
In a separate pan, heat a little oil and brown the chopped smoked meat and sliced cabanos sausages. This step is essential, as it will release all the flavors from the smoked meat and add a rich, winter-specific taste. Once the smoked meat is browned, add it to the pot with the beans, including the fat left behind.

Step 5: Flavoring and finishing
Add bay leaves and the tomato paste dissolved in a little water. Let everything boil for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend. Make sure the taste is to your liking, adjusting the salt if necessary.

Step 6: Serving
When the stew is ready, take it off the heat and garnish with finely chopped fresh herbs. This last step will add not only a pleasant appearance but also a fresh and aromatic note to your dish.

Useful tips:
- Beans can be chosen in different colors, each having a slightly different taste. Make sure to choose a variety you like.
- If you want to reduce cooking time, you can opt for canned beans, but make sure to rinse them well before use.
- Instead of tomato paste, you can use sun-dried tomatoes for a more intense flavor.
- For a vegetarian version, you can omit the smoked meat and sausages and add mushrooms or eggplants for a more complex taste.

Nutritional benefits:
Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, thus contributing to a healthy diet. The smoked meat and sausages add extra flavor but also fats, so it's best to consume them in moderation. This stew is not only delicious but also nutritious, offering a multitude of vitamins and minerals.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use canned beans?
Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time, as canned beans are already cooked.
2. What other vegetables can I add?
You can experiment with carrots, celery, or even zucchini, depending on your preferences.
3. How can I store the stew?
The stew keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days, and for long-term storage, you can freeze individual portions.

Now that you have this recipe for bean stew with smoked meat and sausages in front of you, don't hesitate to try it! It is a perfect choice for a family meal or to impress friends. Serve it with a slice of fresh bread and a green salad for a balanced lunch or dinner. Enjoy your meal!