Farmhouse Beans and Sausage Recipe

Farmhouse Beans and Sausage is a hearty, comforting dish that combines flavorful sausages with tender beans, simmered in a rich sauce that’s infused with spices and herbs. This recipe celebrates rustic, homestyle cooking, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. The dish is not only delicious but also packed with protein and fiber, making it a filling meal that warms you from the inside out. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that is sure to become a favorite at your table!

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beans

1. Soak the Beans: If using dried beans, soak them in a large bowl of water overnight. This softens the beans and reduces cooking time. If you forget to soak them, you can use the quick soak method by bringing the beans to a boil for 2 minutes, then letting them sit covered for 1 hour.
2. Drain and Rinse: After soaking, drain and rinse the beans under cold water.

Step 2: Cook the Beans

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large pot or Dutch oven, add the soaked beans, water or broth, bay leaves, and salt. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the beans are tender. Check occasionally and add more water or broth if necessary to keep the beans submerged.

Step 3: Sauté the Sausage and Vegetables

1. Heat the Oil: In a separate large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Cook the Sausage: Add the sliced sausage to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until browned. This adds flavor and texture to the dish.
3. Add the Vegetables: Add the diced onion, garlic, bell pepper, celery, and carrot to the skillet. Sauté for another 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

1. Add the Sauce: To the skillet with the sausage and vegetables, stir in the tomato sauce, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, thyme, rosemary, and chili powder if using. Mix well to combine.
2. Combine with Beans: Once the beans are cooked and tender, remove the bay leaves and add the sausage and vegetable mixture to the pot with the beans. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.

Step 5: Simmer and Meld Flavors

1. Simmer Together: Allow the mixture to simmer on low heat for an additional 20-30 minutes. This step melds the flavors and allows the beans to absorb the delicious sauce.
2. Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or spices as desired.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

1. Plate the Dish: Ladle the farmhouse beans and sausage into bowls.
2. Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
3. Serve: Pair with crusty bread for dipping and enjoy this hearty dish!

Tips for Making the Best Farmhouse Beans and Sausage

1. Choosing the Right Beans: Navy beans and Great Northern beans work well for this recipe, but feel free to experiment with other beans like pinto or black beans for different flavors and textures.
2. Sausage Varieties: You can use any type of sausage you prefer—smoked, spicy, or sweet. Italian sausage can add a nice kick, while chicken sausage is a lighter option.
3. Vegetable Additions: Customize the vegetable mix to your liking. Zucchini, mushrooms, or corn can be excellent additions for extra flavor and nutrition.
4. Make it Ahead: This dish stores well, making it a great candidate for meal prep. The flavors deepen and improve after a day in the fridge, so consider making it in advance.
5. Freezing Instructions: Farmhouse Beans and Sausage freeze well. Store in airtight containers for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
6. Adjusting the Heat: If you enjoy spicy food, add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sausage and vegetable mixture for an extra kick.

Variations of Farmhouse Beans and Sausage

1. Spicy Version: Add sliced jalapeños or a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the sausage mixture for a spicy kick.
2. Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like basil or oregano to change the flavor profile. Fresh herbs will offer a brighter taste compared to dried.
3. Vegetarian Option: Substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage or tempeh and use vegetable broth. You can also add more vegetables or lentils for protein.
4. Slow Cooker Method: For a hands-off approach, combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Nutritional Benefits of Farmhouse Beans and Sausage

Farmhouse Beans and Sausage is not only delicious but also packed with nutrition. Here are some benefits of the main ingredients:

• Beans: High in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients like iron and folate. They support heart health and help maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
• Sausage: Provides protein and flavor, and you can choose leaner options to reduce fat content. Chicken or turkey sausage is a great lower-fat alternative.
• Vegetables: The addition of various vegetables boosts the fiber content and provides vitamins and minerals necessary for overall health.
• Herbs and Spices: Fresh herbs add flavor without added calories and have antioxidants that may support health.

Serving Suggestions

Farmhouse Beans and Sausage pairs well with several side dishes or accompaniments:

• Crusty Bread: A rustic loaf, baguette, or cornbread is perfect for soaking up the rich sauce.
• Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the hearty dish and adds a refreshing crunch.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can add a nice contrast to the warm, savory beans and sausage.

Storing and Reheating

Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze in portions. Use freezer-safe bags or containers to keep the dish fresh.

Reheating

• Stovetop: Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe container and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until hot.

FAQs

Q: Can I use canned beans instead of dried?
Yes, you can use canned beans for convenience. Drain and rinse them before adding them to the dish. Reduce the cooking time for the beans to just 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Q: What can I serve with this dish?
Farmhouse Beans and Sausage pairs well with cornbread, rice, or a simple green salad.

Q: Can I make this dish in advance?
Absolutely! It stores well in the refrigerator and tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop. You can make it up to 2 days in advance.

Q: How spicy is this dish?
The level of spice can be adjusted based on the type of sausage you use and whether you add chili powder or other spices. Feel free to customize it to your taste.

Q: What kind of sausage should I use?
You can use any smoked sausage or kielbasa. Chicken, turkey, or even vegetarian sausage can be used for a healthier option.

Conclusion

Farmhouse Beans and Sausage is a comforting dish that brings warmth and heartiness to any table. With its rich flavors, nutritious ingredients, and versatility, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep in your repertoire for years to come. Whether served on a chilly night or at a family gathering, this dish is sure to please and satisfy. Enjoy the process of making it as much as the delightful meal itself!

So gather your ingredients, invite some loved ones, and dive into a bowl of this delicious farmhouse classic. Happy cooking!

Yield: 6

Farmhouse Beans and Sausage Recipe

Print

Farmhouse Beans and Sausage is a hearty, comforting dish that combines flavorful sausages with tender beans, simmered in a rich sauce that’s infused with spices and herbs. This recipe celebrates rustic, homestyle cooking, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. The dish is not only delicious but also packed with protein and fiber, making it a filling meal that warms you from the inside out. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that is sure to become a favorite at your table!

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 1 hour

Ingredients

• 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced (such as kielbasa or andouille)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cans (15 oz each) navy beans or pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Sausage:
   In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.
   
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
   In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
   
3. Combine Ingredients:
   Stir in the drained beans, diced tomatoes (with their juices), chicken broth, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
   
4. Add the Sausage:
   Return the cooked sausage to the pot, stirring to combine with the bean mixture.
   
5. Simmer:
   Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld and the mixture thickens.
   
6. Serve:
   Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

• Beans: You can use canned beans for convenience or soak and cook dried beans for a more homemade flavor.
• Sausage Variety: Feel free to use any type of smoked sausage you prefer, such as turkey sausage for a lighter option.