Hearty Sausage Stew
A hearty and flavorful sausage stew combining Polish sausage, beans, cabbage, and vegetables, seasoned with herbs for a comforting meal. Perfect for cold days or family dinners, its robust flavors and filling ingredients make it a satisfying choice for those seeking a warm, savory dish.
Ingredients
- 1.5 to 2 lb. Polish sausage ⓘ
- 2 (16 oz.) cans Great Northern beans ⓘ
- 3 cups coarsely chopped cabbage ⓘ
- 2 cups water ⓘ
- 1.5 cups sliced carrots ⓘ
- 2 chicken bouillon cubes ⓘ
- 0.75 cups sliced celery ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon minced onion ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon basil
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme leaves ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon dried summer savory leaves (optional) ⓘ
Instructions
- In a large pot, cook the Polish sausage until browned and cooked through.
- Add sliced carrots, sliced celery, and minced onion; sauté for a few minutes until vegetables start to soften.
- Pour in water and add chicken bouillon cubes, stirring to dissolve.
- Add the cans of Great Northern beans (including liquid), chopped cabbage, basil, thyme, and summer savory if using.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about 45-60 minutes until flavors meld and vegetables are tender.
- Adjust seasoning as needed and serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier stew, consider adding potatoes or substituting the Polish sausage with turkey sausage for a lighter option. If you don't have Great Northern beans, cannellini or navy beans work well too. Adjust the herbs according to your taste—fresh herbs can elevate the dish. Adding a splash of vinegar just before serving can brighten the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the hearty sausage stew with crusty bread or over cooked rice to soak up the flavorful broth. It pairs beautifully with Carrie Mae'S Chicken Pot Pie for a comforting meal. Consider a side salad or steamed green vegetables to balance the richness of the stew. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley can add a nice finishing touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the stew in a pot over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much. Stir occasionally until heated through. This stew also freezes well for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hearty Sausage Stew contains roughly 565 calories, with 20g protein, 85g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (76% of the Daily Value), iron (60% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (59% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1283mg per serving (56% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this stew in advance?
Yes, this stew actually benefits from sitting for a day as the flavors meld together. Prepare it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat gently before serving. This makes it a great option for meal prep or gatherings, allowing you to enjoy more time with friends and family.
What can I use instead of water for a richer flavor?
For a deeper flavor, consider using chicken broth or vegetable broth instead of water. This will enhance the overall taste of the stew. If you're looking for a unique twist, you could even use a splash of beer, which would complement the sausage nicely and add complexity to the dish.
Is there a vegetarian version of this stew?
Absolutely! You can create a delicious vegetarian version by substituting the Polish sausage with a plant-based sausage or mushrooms for a meaty texture. Replace the chicken bouillon with vegetable bouillon cubes, and consider adding more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).