Beans with sausages

Beans with Sausages: A Comforting and Flavorful Dish

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Beans with sausages is a classic recipe that evokes family memories and warm meals around the table. This delicious combination is not only nutritious but also full of flavor, offering an explosion of tastes that will warm your soul. With a perfect mix of smoked meats and protein-rich beans, this dish is ideal for cool days or when you need culinary comfort.

Basic ingredients:
- 500 g beans (white or red, depending on preference)
- 3-4 sausages (choose smoked ones for a more intense flavor)
- 50 ml oil (sunflower oil or extra virgin olive oil)
- 3 large onions (preferably white or yellow for a sweeter taste)
- 1 tablespoon pepper paste
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- Salt (to taste)
- Dried thyme (1-2 teaspoons)
- Bay leaves (2-3 leaves)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)

A brief history of the recipe:
Beans are a staple ingredient in many cultures, having a long history as a source of nutritious food. The dish of beans with sausages combines the tradition of cooking meat from various regions, creating a dish that has become a symbol of conviviality. It is easy to prepare and can be adapted according to the season or available ingredients, being a perfect example of "cooking with what you have on hand."

Step by step for a perfect dish:

1. Prepare the beans:
- Soak the beans overnight to rehydrate them and reduce cooking time. This will make the beans easier to digest and absorb the flavors from the sauce.
- The next day, rinse the beans under cold water and place them in a pot with cold water. Boil over medium heat for about 40-60 minutes until the beans become tender. Don’t forget to remove the foam that forms on the surface during boiling.

2. Prepare the sausages:
- Cut the sausages into thin slices or cubes, depending on preference. Smoked sausages add a special flavor to this dish, but you can experiment with beef or pork sausages, depending on taste.
- In a large skillet, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the sausages and fry them until golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.

3. Sauté the onion:
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion. Sauté the onion over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it becomes golden and translucent (about 5-7 minutes). This will add depth and sweetness to the dish.

4. Add the paste:
- When the onion is ready, add the pepper paste and tomato paste, mixing well to combine the flavors. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes for the flavors to intensify.

5. Combine the ingredients:
- Once the beans are cooked, take a ladle of beans and add it to the onion and paste mixture. Gently stir to avoid crushing the beans. Continue adding beans from the pot to the skillet, stirring slowly.
- Season with salt, dried thyme, and bay leaves. Add the fried sausages back into the skillet and mix everything together.

6. Finalizing the dish:
- Let the mixture simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This will allow the flavors to combine perfectly and enrich the dish.
- When ready, remove the bay leaves and add the chopped parsley for an extra touch of freshness.

7. Serving:
- Beans with sausages are delicious served hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or a simple salad. You can also drizzle some extra virgin olive oil on top for an even more intense flavor.

Useful tips:
- If you want to save time, you can use canned beans, but make sure to rinse them well before use to remove excess salt.
- For a vegetarian version, you can replace the sausages with smoked tofu or mushrooms, which will add umami to the dish.
- Experiment with spices! You can add sweet or hot paprika, garlic, or even a splash of balsamic vinegar to enhance the flavor.

Nutritional information:
A 250 g serving of beans with sausages contains approximately 350 kcal, providing an excellent source of protein, fiber, and B vitamins. Beans are rich in antioxidants, and sausages add healthy proteins and fats. This dish is perfect for energizing your day and supporting your digestive health.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can beans with sausages be frozen?
Yes, it’s great for freezing! Make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in airtight containers.

- Can I add vegetables to the recipe?
Sure! Carrots, celery, or bell peppers are excellent options to enrich the dish.

- What drinks pair well with beans and sausages?
A pale beer or fresh lemonade are always inspired choices. If you prefer wine, choose a dry red wine that will complement the flavors of the meat.

Beans with sausages is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience that brings people together. So, prepare it with love and enjoy every spoonful! Enjoy your meal!