Beans with sausages

Beans with Sausages – A Traditional Recipe Full of Flavors and History

Beans with sausages is a dish that brings to mind family meals, moments spent together, enveloped in rich aromas and warmth. It is a rustic dish, yet full of character, combining simple ingredients with traditional cooking techniques. It is a meal that not only nourishes us but also reminds us of our culinary roots.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Necessary ingredients:
- 500 g beans (preferably white beans or borscht beans)
- 1 large carrot
- 1 slice of celery
- 1 parsley root
- 1 parsnip
- 1 onion
- 3-4 bay leaves
- 6 cloves of garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons of paprika (preferably sweet paprika)
- Homemade smoked sausages (about 300 g)
- Olive oil or sunflower oil for sautéing

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the beans: Start by washing the beans well under a stream of cold water. Then, place the beans in a large bowl and cover them with water. Let them soak overnight. This step is essential as it helps reduce cooking time and improves digestibility.

2. Boiling the beans: The next day, discard the water in which the beans soaked and rinse them again. Place the beans in a large pot, add fresh water, and wait for it to reach a boiling point. It is important to add the beans only when the water starts to boil. After it boils, discard the water again, then fill the pot with fresh water and add the bay leaves.

3. Preparing the vegetables: In the meantime, clean and chop all the vegetables – the carrot, celery, parsley root, and parsnip. In a pan, add a little oil and sauté the vegetables over medium heat until they become slightly soft. Add the paprika and mix well. This will give the dish a vibrant color and a distinctive flavor.

4. Combining the ingredients: Once the beans are almost cooked (about 1 hour), add the sautéed vegetables to the pot with the beans, along with the sausages sliced into rounds and the finely chopped garlic. Mix everything well, ensuring that the ingredients are evenly distributed.

5. Final cooking: Let everything simmer over medium heat for another 30-45 minutes, or until the beans are fully cooked and soft. You can add salt and pepper to taste in the last minutes of cooking. If you want to speed up the boiling process, add a tablespoon of sugar to the water in which the beans are boiling. This simple trick helps the beans soften faster.

Useful tips:
- Make sure to choose quality sausages, preferably smoked, as their flavor will add an extra touch to the dish.
- You can experiment with different types of beans, such as red beans or mung beans, to create a unique version of this dish.
- If you like a spicier taste, you can also add a hot pepper to the vegetable pan.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, making them ideal for a balanced diet. A serving of beans with sausages provides about 400-500 calories, depending on the amount of sausages used. Additionally, this dish is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron and magnesium.

Possible variations:
- You can add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or tomatoes, to bring extra color and nutrients.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can omit the sausages and add smoked tofu or tempeh to maintain texture and protein.
- You can also experiment with different spices, such as cumin or turmeric, to alter the flavor.

Serving:
Beans with sausages are served hot, ideally alongside fluffy polenta or a fresh summer salad. You can add a spoonful of sour cream on top for extra creaminess. A bottle of white wine or a craft beer can pair perfectly with this delicious dish.

Frequently asked questions:
- Why should I discard the water in which the beans boil?
Discarding the water helps eliminate compounds that can cause digestive discomfort and reduces cooking time.

- Can I use canned beans?
Yes, you can use canned beans to save time, but make sure to rinse them well before use.

- What other recipes can I try with beans?
Beans can be used in various dishes, such as chili con carne, bean salads, or cream soups.

Beans with sausages is more than just a simple dish; it is a culinary experience full of taste and tradition. Its preparation can become a moment of relaxation and joy, and the final result will bring smiles to the faces of loved ones. So, put on an apron, put on your gloves, and let yourself be carried away into the world of aromas, where each ingredient has its place and each taste invites you to discover new combinations. Enjoy your meal!