Cassoulet
Hearty and soul-warming, this classic cassoulet is a rustic mélange of tender beans, succulent sausages, and fall-off-the-bone meats.
Total: 200 minPrep: 20 minCook: 180 minServes 6Difficulty: Medium⭐ 4.8 (120+ ratings)$
Ingredients
Servings:
- 1 pound dried white beans, soaked overnight
- 1/2 pound smoked sausage, sliced
- 1/2 pound pork shoulder, cubed
- 1/2 pound beef stew meat, cubed
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup stale bread crumbs
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Steps
- 1 Drain the soaked beans and set aside.
- 2 In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sauté until translucent.
- 3 Add pork and beef to the pot, browning on all sides.
- 4 Stir in the thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
- 5 Add the beans and chicken stock, bring to a simmer, and cook covered for 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- 6 After 2 hours, add the sausages and continue to cook for another 30 minutes.
- 7 Preheat oven to 400°F.
- 8 Top the cassoulet with breadcrumbs and bake for 15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- 9 Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Oven-safe baking dish
Variations
- Add diced tomatoes for extra tanginess.
- Incorporate duck confit for a luxurious twist.
Substitutions
- Use canned beans (3 cans, drained and rinsed) if short on time.
- Substitute turkey sausage for a leaner option.
Pairings
- Crusty baguette slices
- Roasted root vegetables
Nutrition
Calories:
450 kcal
Fat:
20g fat
Carbs:
40g carbohydrates
Protein:
25g protein
Fiber:
8g fiber
Sugar:
4g sugar
Sodium:
800mg sodium
Tips
- Soaking the beans overnight ensures they cook evenly and tenderly.
- Feel free to use any combination of meats you prefer for a personalized touch.
Storage
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth.
Freezing: Freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat slowly on the stovetop.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Pair with a robust red wine for an authentic French experience.
FAQ
Can I use different beans?
Absolutely! Try cannellini or navy beans for a similar texture.
How important is soaking the beans?
Soaking reduces cooking time and aids in digestibility.