When the temperatures drop and you’re craving a hearty and comforting meal that will warm you up from the inside out, look no further than a steaming pot of Cowboy Cassoulet. This rustic dish takes inspiration from the French classic and infuses it with the robust flavors of the Wild West. With tender meat, creamy beans, and a savory broth, this dish is sure to become a family favorite on chilly nights.
Cowboy Cassoulet
Ingredients:
– 1 lb. pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 lb. smoked sausage, sliced
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 can (15 oz.) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz.) white beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp. dried thyme
– 1 tsp. paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat some oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork shoulder pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pot and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add the smoked sausage slices and cook until they start to brown, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pot and set aside with the pork.
3. Add the diced onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add the sliced carrots and chopped celery to the pot, cooking for a few minutes until they begin to soften.
5. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
6. Return the pork and sausage to the pot and add the drained white beans.
7. Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
8. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it gently simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally, until the pork is tender and the flavors are well combined.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your taste preferences.
10. Serve the Cowboy Cassoulet hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple green salad on the side.
Enjoy the comforting flavors of the frontier with this soul-warming Cowboy Cassoulet. Perfect for a cozy evening in or a gathering with friends and family, this hearty dish will transport you to a rustic cabin in the Old West with every delicious bite. Gather around the table and savor the rich flavors of this satisfying one-pot meal that is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
