Fat beans with vegetables and rose sausages

Fat Beans with Vegetables and Rose Sausages - a Delicious and Comforting Recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 90 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 50 minutes
Servings: 4

This recipe for fat beans with vegetables and rose sausages is a true culinary treasure, blending the rich flavors of vegetables with the creamy texture of the beans. Its taste evokes memories of freshly made zacusca, filled with aromas and tradition. It is best enjoyed on cool days, surrounded by loved ones.

The history of this dish is intertwined with the culinary traditions of many communities that have discovered over time how to transform simple ingredients into hearty and nourishing meals. This recipe is easily adaptable, offering numerous variations based on personal preferences or available ingredients.

Ingredients:
- 500 g fat beans
- 2 medium onions
- 2 red bell peppers
- 2 tomatoes or 200 g tomato paste
- 1 carrot
- salt, pepper, to taste
- 1 cube of Knorr broth (or another preferred brand)
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- rose sausages (enough for serving, about 300 g)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the beans: Start by rinsing the fat beans thoroughly under cold running water. Then, place the beans in a large bowl with water and let them soak for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight. This step will help the beans cook faster and become more digestible.

2. Boiling the beans: After soaking, drain and rinse the beans again. Put the beans in a large pot with fresh water, bring to a boil, then discard the first water (this will reduce some of the gas-producing properties of the beans). Add a whole carrot, a whole onion, and the two bay leaves to the water. Simmer over medium heat for about an hour, until the beans are almost cooked.

3. Seasoning the beans: When the beans are nearly done, add salt to taste. It is important not to add salt too early, as it can prolong the cooking time.

4. Preparing the vegetables: While the beans are cooking, finely chop the remaining onions and red bell peppers. In a deep skillet, heat the two tablespoons of oil over low heat. Add the onions and peppers and sauté, stirring frequently, until they become soft and translucent, about 10 minutes.

5. Adding the tomatoes: Once the vegetables are sautéed, add the chopped tomatoes or tomato paste. Continue cooking the mixture, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and form a homogeneous mixture, about 5-7 minutes.

6. Combining the ingredients: Drain the beans and add them to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Gently stir to combine all the ingredients. Season with salt, pepper, and a cube of Knorr broth to taste. Let the dish simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

7. Preparing the sausages: Meanwhile, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the rose sausages and fry them without oil until they are browned and crispy on all sides, about 10-12 minutes. This step will intensify the flavor of the sausages and provide a pleasant contrast to the beans.

8. Serving: Serve the hot beans with vegetables alongside the fried sausages. You can add a garnish of freshly chopped parsley for a touch of freshness and color. This recipe pairs perfectly with a summer salad, fresh bread, or even a dry white wine.

Practical tips:
- You can experiment by adding other seasonal vegetables, such as carrots, zucchini, or eggplant, depending on your preferences.
- If you like a spicier taste, you can add some finely chopped hot pepper to the vegetable mixture.
- Instead of rose sausages, you can also use other types of sausages, such as homemade sausages or smoked pork sausages, for a different flavor.

Nutritional benefits:
Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential minerals such as iron and magnesium. This dish is ideal for a healthy and nourishing meal that will keep you full for a long time. Additionally, the vegetables add vitamins and antioxidants, contributing to a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use canned beans? In principle, yes, but make sure to rinse them well to remove excess salt and preservatives. The cooking time will be significantly reduced, and the recipe will be ready much faster.
- What type of sausages can I use? You can experiment with different types of sausages, including chicken or turkey sausages for a healthier option.
- Is this recipe vegan? If you choose not to use sausages or replace them with a plant-based substitute, the recipe becomes vegan.

This recipe for fat beans with vegetables and rose sausages is not only a filling meal but also a way to bring family and friends together to enjoy the joy of cooking together. So, don’t hesitate to start cooking and share this recipe with your loved ones!