Can I make this stew vegetarian?
Yes, omit the botifarra sausage and use vegetable broth. You can add chickpeas or white beans for protein.
DINNER
Hearty Catalan Farmer's Stew with Botifarra Sausage
Warm up with a traditional Catalan farmer's stew, Escudella de Pagès. This comforting one-pot meal combines tender vegetables, pasta, and savory botifarra sausage for a truly satisfying dinner.
HOW TO MAKE IT
Let's cook.
01
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the sliced botifarra sausage and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
02
Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery to the pot. Sauté for 8-10 minutes over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften.
03
Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, and crumbled saffron threads. Cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
04
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
05
Return the cooked botifarra sausage to the pot. Add the small pasta and continue to simmer, uncovered, for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.
06
Season the stew with salt and black pepper to taste. Ladle the Escudella de Pagès into bowls and garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
About This Recipe
Warm up with a traditional Catalan farmer's stew, Escudella de Pagès. This comforting one-pot meal combines tender vegetables, pasta, and savory botifarra sausage for a truly satisfying dinner.
Simple ingredients.
Big flavor.✦
Big flavor.✦
Chef's Tips
For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth. If botifarra sausage is unavailable, a good quality mild Italian sausage can be used as a substitute.
Easy Substitutions
Instead of botifarra, use mild Italian sausage or even a smoked sausage like kielbasa. Small potatoes, diced, can be added along with the carrots and celery for extra heartiness. Any small pasta shape will work.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Escudella de Pagès in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to adjust consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty stew with crusty bread for dipping. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing would complement the richness of the stew. Enjoy with a glass of robust red wine, such as a Priorat or Montsant.
Common Mistakes
Overcooking the pasta: Add the pasta only towards the end to prevent it from becoming mushy. Not browning the sausage sufficiently: Proper browning adds a crucial layer of flavor to the stew. Skimping on simmering time: The vegetables need time to soften and release their flavors into the broth. Forgetting to season: Taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I don't have saffron?
While saffron adds a unique flavor and color, you can omit it if unavailable. A pinch of turmeric can provide some color, but the flavor will be different.
Can I freeze this stew?
Yes, you can freeze the stew without the pasta. Cook the pasta fresh when reheating the thawed stew for best texture.
MORE TO KNOW
Escudella de Pagès, meaning 'farmer's stew,' is a traditional Catalan dish that embodies rustic comfort. The key to its depth of flavor lies in the slow simmering of vegetables and the aromatic spices like smoked paprika and saffron. While botifarra is traditional, don't hesitate to experiment with other sausages if it's hard to find. The pasta absorbs the rich broth, making it a truly satisfying meal. Adjust the cooking time for the pasta based on its type and desired tenderness.
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