Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb dried white beans
- 1 lb saucisson (French dry sausage), sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Special equipment needed:
- Large Dutch oven or casserole dish with lid
- Food processor or blender
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Rinse the white beans and soak them overnight in plenty of water. Drain and rinse again.
2. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
3. In the Dutch oven or casserole dish, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 5 minutes, until softened.
4. Add the sliced saucisson, bay leaf, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and cook for 5 minutes, until the saucisson is slightly browned.
5. Add the soaked white beans and chicken or vegetable broth. Stir well and bring to a boil.
6. Cover the Dutch oven or casserole dish with the lid and transfer to the preheated oven. Bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes, until the beans are tender and the sauce is thickened.
7. In the meantime, prepare the breadcrumb topping. In a food processor or blender, pulse the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese until finely ground.
8. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the casserole and return to the oven. Bake for an additional 15 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
9. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Temperature:
350°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 450
Total fat: 20g
Saturated fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 45mg
Sodium: 1200mg
Total carbohydrates: 40g
Dietary fiber: 10g
Total sugars: 3g
Protein: 28g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of dried white beans, such as navy beans, cannellini beans, or Great Northern beans.
- If you can't find saucisson, you can use any other type of dry sausage, such as chorizo or salami.
- You can use fresh herbs instead of dried thyme, such as rosemary or oregano.
- You can use any type of broth, such as beef or pork broth.
Variations:
- You can add chopped tomatoes or tomato paste for a more tomato-based sauce.
- You can add chopped kale or spinach for extra greens.
- You can add diced potatoes or sweet potatoes for extra starch.
- You can add sliced mushrooms for extra umami flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to soak the white beans overnight to reduce cooking time and improve texture.
- You can make this casserole ahead of time and reheat it in the oven or microwave.
- Serve with crusty bread or rice for a complete meal.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- You can freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, until heated through.
- Reheat in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the casserole in individual bowls or on a large platter.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of color.
Pairings:
- Serve with a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Pair with a full-bodied red wine, such as Syrah or Cabernet Sauvignon.
Suggested side dishes:
- Crusty bread or baguette
- Rice or quinoa
- Roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or carrots
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the casserole is too dry, add more broth or water and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes.
- If the casserole is too soupy, remove the lid and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the saucisson and white beans thoroughly to avoid foodborne illness.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator or freezer promptly to avoid bacterial growth.
Food history:
- Saucisson is a type of dry sausage that originated in France and is made from pork meat and fat.
- White bean casseroles are a staple in French cuisine, especially in the southwestern region of Gascony.
Flavor profiles:
- The saucisson adds a smoky and savory flavor to the casserole, while the white beans provide a creamy and nutty texture.
- The breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese topping adds a crispy and salty contrast to the dish.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the casserole as a main course for a cozy dinner party or family gathering.
- Serve the casserole as a side dish for a potluck or buffet.
Related Categories
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Region: French
Taste: Savory, Herby, Meaty, Comforting, Hearty