5 Delicious Dry Navy Bean and Sausage Recipes

When it comes to comforting meals that warm both body and soul, few dishes can compete with a hearty pot of beans and sausage. Navy beans, with their creamy texture and mild flavor, pair perfectly with the smoky depth of sausage, creating a culinary harmony that's beloved around the world. In this blog post, we dive into five delicious recipes that make the most of this delightful duo, offering variations that cater to different palates and dietary preferences. Whether you're looking for a simple stovetop dish or something special for a gathering, these recipes will inspire you to create unforgettable meals.

Savory Sausage and Navy Bean Stew

The beauty of this stew lies in its simplicity and the robust flavors it imparts. Here’s how to make it:

• 1 kg sausage (preferably smoked or spicy for more depth)
• 400g dried navy beans (soaked overnight)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 can of tomatoes, diced
• 1 liter of chicken or vegetable stock
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt, pepper, and fresh thyme to taste

Steps:

1. Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add sausage and brown until fully cooked. Remove sausage and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and celery until onions are translucent.
3. Add tomatoes, soaked beans, bay leaves, and stock. Bring to a simmer, then lower the heat.
4. Slice sausage into rounds and return to the pot.
5. Cook gently for 1-2 hours, or until beans are tender, stirring occasionally.
6. Season to taste with salt, pepper, and thyme. Remove bay leaves before serving.

Notes:

🌟 Note: For a deeper flavor, try using a combination of different types of sausage like chorizo and Italian.

Slow Cooker Navy Bean and Sausage Casserole

If you’re short on time but crave a comforting meal, this slow cooker recipe is for you. Here’s what you need:

• 400g dried navy beans (pre-soaked or quick-soaked)
• 750g sausage links
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 750ml chicken broth
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Steps:

1. In a skillet, cook the sausages until browned. Slice and add to the slow cooker.
2. Layer onions, garlic, bell pepper, beans, paprika, and oregano in the slow cooker.
3. Pour in the chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-6 hours, until beans are tender.

Spicy Navy Bean and Sausage Skillet

This dish brings heat and flavor to the table, making it perfect for spice lovers.

• 500g sausage (choose a spicy variety like Andouille or Jalapeño)
• 2 cans navy beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 green chili, minced
• 1 red chili, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Steps:

1. Brown sausages in a large skillet, then slice and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, cook onions, garlic, and chilies until fragrant.
3. Return sausage to the skillet, add beans, tomatoes, and cayenne. Simmer until heated through.
4. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Navy Bean and Sausage Risotto

A twist on the classic Italian risotto, this recipe combines creamy beans with rich sausage for a decadent yet approachable dish.

• 400g dried navy beans
• 300g Arborio rice
• 250g sausage, crumbled
• 1 onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 liter of chicken stock
• 100ml white wine (optional)
• 100g grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt, pepper, and chopped chives for garnish

Steps:

1. Soak beans overnight or use quick-soak method. Boil until tender, then set aside.
2. In a separate pan, cook sausage until browned. Remove excess fat.
3. In the same pan, sauté onions and garlic until translucent. Add rice and cook for a minute.
4. Add wine (if using) and stir until absorbed. Gradually add stock, stirring frequently.
5. Once rice is almost al dente, fold in beans. Cook until rice is tender.
6. Stir in cheese. Season with salt and pepper, garnish with chives.

Table:

To sum it up, these five recipes offer a diverse range of flavors and cooking methods, showcasing the versatility of navy beans and sausage. From the depth of a slow-cooked casserole to the spicy kick of a skillet dish, there's something to satisfy every craving. Whether you're cooking for yourself or hosting a dinner, these dishes are sure to impress with their heartwarming appeal and delicious, comforting flavors.

Can I substitute navy beans with other types of beans?

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Yes, you can use cannellini, great northern, or even black beans. Each type will slightly alter the texture and flavor of the dish.

How can I make these recipes vegetarian?

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Opt for vegetarian sausage alternatives, or omit the sausage entirely and enhance the broth with miso or a mix of mushrooms for a similar depth of flavor.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

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Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze in portion sizes for up to 3 months.

How can I adjust the heat level in these recipes?

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Control the spice by reducing or increasing the amount of chili, cayenne, or by selecting mild or hot sausages. Always taste and adjust as you go.

Can these recipes be adapted for a pressure cooker?

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Absolutely, especially for recipes like stews or casseroles. Cook beans and sausage with all ingredients for about 20-30 minutes under pressure, then allow for natural pressure release.