Easy Cassoulet

Easy Cassoulet Recipe - Authentic French Dish

Region / culture: France | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Cassoulet is a classic French dish that is hearty, comforting, and perfect for a cozy night in. This easy cassoulet recipe is a simplified version of the traditional dish, but still packs a flavorful punch. With a combination of chicken, sausage, beans, and aromatic herbs, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.

History

Cassoulet originated in the south of France, specifically in the region of Languedoc. It is a slow-cooked casserole dish that traditionally includes white beans, various meats such as pork, duck, and sausage, as well as herbs and vegetables. The dish has humble origins, with each region in France having its own variation of the recipe.

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
4 boneless skinless chicken thighs, chopped
0.25 lb (113 g) cooked smoked sausage, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried thyme leaves
0.5 tsp black pepper
4 tbsp tomato paste
2 tbsp water
3 cans (about 15 oz or 425 g each) great northern beans, rinsed and drained
3 tbsp minced fresh parsley

How to prepare

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the onion to the hot oil and cook and stir until the onion is tender, about 4 minutes.
Stir in the chicken, sausage, garlic, thyme, and pepper.
Cook for 5 to 8 minutes, or until the chicken and sausage are browned.

Variations

Add duck confit or pork belly for a more traditional twist.
Use different types of beans such as cannellini or navy beans.
Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor to your liking.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to brown the chicken and sausage well before adding the other ingredients to develop a deep flavor.

- Use high-quality sausage for the best taste and texture.

- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite herbs or vegetables.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this easy cassoulet with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the chicken and sausage before adding the other ingredients helps develop a rich flavor.

- Simmering the cassoulet slowly allows the flavors to meld together for a delicious end result.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use any type of sausage you prefer, such as chorizo or Italian sausage.

- Feel free to swap out the chicken thighs for chicken breasts if desired.

Make Ahead Tips

This cassoulet can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve this easy cassoulet in individual ramekins for a charming presentation, or in a large serving dish for a family-style meal.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this cassoulet with a glass of red wine such as a Syrah or Grenache for a perfect match.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this easy cassoulet recipe contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

This easy cassoulet recipe contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

Each serving of this cassoulet recipe contains about 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

With chicken, sausage, and beans as the main ingredients, this dish is packed with protein, providing around 25 grams per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

This cassoulet recipe is a good source of iron, vitamin C, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy and gluten from the sausage. Please check for any specific allergens based on the brands of ingredients used.

Summary

This easy cassoulet recipe is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

This easy cassoulet recipe is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. With a combination of chicken, sausage, beans, and aromatic herbs, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the flavors of France with this simple and satisfying recipe.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a rainy day, much like today, and I was flipping through an old cookbook that belonged to my mother. As I turned the pages, a picture of a steaming pot of cassoulet caught my eye. The dish looked hearty and comforting, perfect for a day like today.

I had never made cassoulet before, but the recipe seemed simple enough. I gathered all the ingredients I needed and set to work in the kitchen. The smell of the beans simmering with the sausage and garlic filled the air, and I knew I was on to something special.

As the dish cooked, I couldn't help but think back to all the recipes I had learned over the years. My grandmother had been a fantastic cook, and I had spent countless hours in her kitchen watching and learning from her. She taught me the importance of using fresh, quality ingredients and taking the time to cook with love and care.

I remember the first time she showed me how to make her famous meatballs. She guided my hands as I rolled the mixture into perfect little spheres, and I watched with pride as they sizzled in the pan, filling the kitchen with a tantalizing aroma.

My grandmother had a knack for creating delicious meals out of simple ingredients. She taught me how to make her signature chicken soup, which was always a hit with friends and family. Her secret ingredient was a pinch of nutmeg, which added a warm, comforting flavor to the broth.

As I stirred the cassoulet on the stove, I couldn't help but feel a sense of nostalgia for those days spent in my grandmother's kitchen. She had passed down so many wonderful recipes to me, and I cherished each one like a precious gift.

The cassoulet was ready, and I carefully spooned it into bowls, topping each one with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. I brought the steaming bowls to the table, where my family eagerly dug in, savoring each bite.

As we ate, I shared stories of my grandmother and the recipes she had passed down to me. My children listened intently, their eyes wide with wonder at the thought of a kitchen filled with love and laughter.

I realized in that moment that these recipes were more than just food - they were a connection to my past, a way to honor the memories of those who had taught me so much. And as my family sat around the table, enjoying the fruits of my labor, I knew that these recipes would continue to be passed down through the generations, ensuring that the legacy of good food and happy times would live on.

So, the next time you find yourself in the kitchen, searching for a recipe to try, I urge you to think about where it came from. Embrace the history and tradition behind each dish, and cook with love and care, just like my grandmother taught me.

And who knows, maybe one day you'll be passing down your own recipes to future generations, creating a legacy of delicious food and cherished memories that will endure for years to come.