Potato stew with sausages and bacon

Delicious Potato Stew with Sausages and Bacon

This potato stew recipe with sausages and bacon is a true culinary treasure, a dish that combines tradition with simplicity and flavor. It is perfect for the chilly winter days, but you can prepare it anytime you crave a hearty meal that brings warmth and comfort. Moreover, it is not only delicious but also easy to make, making it ideal for both beginner and experienced cooks.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 6 large potatoes
- 2 sausages (preferably pork or beef)
- 3 slices of bacon (or kaizer, according to preference)
- 1 large onion
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup white wine (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 5-6 peppercorns
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 5 tablespoons oil (sunflower or olive)
- a few sprigs of thyme
- 1 sprig of rosemary
- a few sprigs of fresh parsley

Ingredient Details:
- Potatoes: Choose starchy potatoes that will break down easily and give a pleasant texture to the stew. Red or yellow potatoes are excellent options.
- Sausages: You can opt for smoked or fresh sausages, depending on your preference. Smoked sausages will add an intense flavor, while fresh ones will provide a milder aroma.
- Bacon or kaizer: These add a rich flavor and an important source of healthy fats. If you prefer a lighter option, you can use lean bacon or even chicken.

Brief History:
Potato stew is a traditional dish that has been cooked in various cultures throughout history due to the versatility and accessibility of ingredients. This recipe has evolved, incorporating local ingredients and personal preferences, but the essence remains the same: a nourishing meal that brings families together around the table.

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the Ingredients:
- Peel the 6 potatoes and cut them into large cubes (about 3 cm). This will help them maintain their shape during cooking.
- Chop the onion finely and prepare the sausages sliced into rounds and the bacon sliced.

2. Sautéing the Onion and Sausages:
- In a large pot or deep skillet, heat the 5 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent.
- Add the bacon and sausages, stirring constantly until they change color and become slightly crispy, about 5 minutes.

3. Adding the Potatoes:
- Add the potato cubes to the skillet along with a few sprigs of thyme and a sprig of rosemary. Stir gently to combine the flavors and let them sauté for 2 minutes, being careful not to stick.

4. Boiling:
- Pour in 450-500 ml of water (or enough to cover the potatoes) and a cup of white wine, if using. Add the sweet paprika and peppercorns. Stir and let it boil over medium heat for about 10 minutes, or until the potatoes start to soften.

5. Finalizing the Dish:
- After 10 minutes, add the tomato sauce and salt. Mix well and transfer the stew to a baking dish. Bake at 200°C for 20 minutes to intensify the flavors and achieve a delicious texture.

6. Serving:
- Once the stew is ready, take it out of the oven and taste to adjust the salt. Add the chopped fresh parsley on top for extra freshness and color.

Serving Suggestions:
The potato stew with sausages and bacon is popular when served with a fresh green salad or pickles. A slice of crusty bread is perfect for savoring the delicious sauce. You can also pair this dish with a glass of white wine, which will complement the flavors perfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other types of meat? Yes, you can experiment with chicken or turkey, or even a mix of vegetables for a vegetarian option.
- How long can I keep the stew? You can store the stew in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Reheat gently over low heat or in the oven.
- Is this recipe suitable for freezing? Absolutely! The stew freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.

Nutritional Benefits:
This stew is not only tasty but also nutritious. Potatoes provide complex carbohydrates essential for energy, while sausages and bacon add proteins and healthy fats. Parsley adds essential vitamins and antioxidants, making this dish not only satisfying but also beneficial for health.

Personalized Version:
If you want to add a touch of originality, you can include vegetables like carrots or bell peppers, which not only enhance the flavor but also the color of the stew. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as oregano or basil, to achieve a taste that suits your preferences.

This potato stew with sausages and bacon is more than just a recipe; it is a culinary experience that brings people together. So put on your apron, prepare the ingredients, and enjoy the enticing aroma of this traditional dish that is sure to become a favorite in your family!