Falucus Sausage Stew

Falucus Sausage Stew Recipe

Serves: 6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

This Falucus Sausage Stew is a hearty, flavorful dish inspired by rustic cooking traditions. With its rich tomato base, smoky sausages, and tender vegetables, it’s a meal that brings warmth and comfort to any table.

Ingredients:

• For the Base:
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
• For the Protein:
  • 1 lb (450 g) Falucus sausage or any smoked sausage, sliced
  • 1 cup diced pancetta or bacon (optional for extra flavor)
• For the Vegetables:
  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1 medium zucchini, sliced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup green beans, trimmed
• For the Sauce:
  • 1 can (14 oz/400 g) diced tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable stock
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Optional Additions:
  • 1/4 cup red wine (for added depth of flavor)
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (for a spicy kick)
• For Garnishing:
  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Crusty bread, for serving

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Base:
   Heat olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
2. Add the Sausage and Pancetta:
   Add the sliced Falucus sausage and pancetta (if using) to the pot. Cook until the sausage is lightly browned and the pancetta starts to crisp, about 5 minutes. Stir frequently to avoid sticking.
3. Layer the Vegetables:
   Toss in the carrots and celery, cooking for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Add the potatoes, zucchini, and bell peppers, stirring well to coat them in the juices released by the sausage.
4. Create the Sauce:
   Stir in the tomato paste, mixing until it evenly coats the ingredients. Pour in the diced tomatoes, stock, and optional red wine. Add the smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, and chili flakes (if desired). Season with salt and pepper.
5. Simmer the Stew:
   Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Add Green Beans:
   In the last 10 minutes of cooking, add the green beans. They should be tender but still vibrant in color.
7. Adjust the Seasoning:
   Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Add a pinch more salt, pepper, or spices to suit your preference.
8. Serve:
   Ladle the stew into bowls, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve hot with crusty bread for dipping.

Cooking Tips:

1. Sausage Variety:
   Falucus sausage is typically smoked and robust in flavor. If unavailable, kielbasa, chorizo, or Andouille sausage are excellent substitutes.
2. Vegetable Flexibility:
   Feel free to use other vegetables, such as parsnips, sweet potatoes, or spinach, based on your pantry and preferences.
3. Make it Ahead:
   Like many stews, this dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
4. Thickening the Stew:
   If you prefer a thicker stew, mash a few of the potatoes directly in the pot or mix 1 tablespoon of flour with water and stir it in.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: ~380
• Protein: ~20 g
• Carbohydrates: ~30 g
• Fat: ~20 g
• Fiber: ~6 g

This Falucus Sausage Stew is a meal that shines in its simplicity. Its smoky undertones and fresh ingredients will make it a household favorite, perfect for a cozy family dinner or a warming weekend treat. Enjoy!