Can I make this stew ahead of time?
Yes, the flavors often improve overnight. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
BREAKFAST
Catalan Sweet Sausage and White Bean Stew
This hearty Catalan stew features savory sweet botifarra sausage simmered with tender white beans, aromatic vegetables, and a touch of saffron. It's a comforting and flavorful breakfast or brunch dish, perfect for a chilly morning.
HOW TO MAKE IT
Let's cook.
01
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
02
Add the botifarra sausage (casings removed) and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving any rendered fat in the pan.
03
Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook over medium heat until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
04
Stir in the rinsed and drained cannellini beans, chicken broth, crushed saffron threads, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
05
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
06
Uncover and continue to simmer for another 5 minutes, or until the stew has thickened slightly to your desired consistency. Serve hot.
About This Recipe
This hearty Catalan stew features savory sweet botifarra sausage simmered with tender white beans, aromatic vegetables, and a touch of saffron. It's a comforting and flavorful breakfast or brunch dish, perfect for a chilly morning.
Simple ingredients.
Big flavor.✦
Big flavor.✦
Chef's Tips
For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth. If you prefer a thicker stew, mash a quarter of the beans against the side of the pot before serving.
Easy Substitutions
If botifarra sausage is unavailable, use a good quality fresh sweet Italian sausage. Great Northern beans can be used instead of cannellini beans. Vegetable broth can replace chicken broth for a vegetarian option (omit sausage).
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this stew with crusty bread for dipping, a simple green salad with a vinaigrette, or a fried egg on top for an extra hearty breakfast. It also pairs well with a glass of dry white wine.
Common Mistakes
Overcooking the sausage: Cook until just browned and cooked through to keep it tender. Not rinsing the beans: This can lead to excess sodium and a cloudy stew. Skipping the saffron: While optional, saffron adds a distinct Catalan character. Over-seasoning: Start with the recommended salt and pepper, then adjust to taste after simmering.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I can't find botifarra sausage?
A fresh, mild sweet Italian pork sausage is the best substitute.
Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely! Diced carrots or bell peppers can be added with the onion for extra nutrition and flavor.
Is this dish spicy?
No, the smoked paprika adds flavor, not heat. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
MORE TO KNOW
The key to this stew's authentic Catalan flavor is the botifarra sausage and saffron. Botifarra is a fresh pork sausage, often seasoned simply with salt and pepper, giving it a mild sweetness. If using a different sweet pork sausage, ensure it's fresh and not heavily spiced to maintain the delicate balance of flavors. Saffron adds a beautiful golden hue and subtle floral notes; a little goes a long way. Crushing the saffron threads before adding them helps release their full aroma and color.
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