Bacon and Cranberry Bean Ragout

5 stars
4.50 (15)
Bacon and Cranberry Bean Ragout
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
50 mins
Total Time:
70mins
Category:
Recipe by Administrator
Published on January 29, 2024

This Bacon and Cranberry Bean Ragout is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the smoky richness of bacon with the creamy texture of cranberry beans. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a holiday gathering, this ragout will leave you satisfied and craving for more. With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a cooking time of 40 minutes, it is a simple yet impressive recipe that is sure to impress your guests. Enjoy the blend of flavors and textures in this comforting dish!

Ingredients

  • 4 slices bacon, chopped
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups cranberry beans, soaked overnight and drained
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 sprig thyme
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
  2. Add the diced onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
  3. Add the soaked and drained cranberry beans, chicken or vegetable broth, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30 minutes or until the beans are tender.
  4. Remove the bay leaf and thyme sprig from the pot. Stir in the tomato paste and cooked bacon. Cook for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  5. Serve the bacon and cranberry bean ragout hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy!

Interesting Facts

  • Cranberry beans are also known as borlotti beans and have a creamy texture and nutty flavor.
  • This dish can be served as a main course or as a side dish with grilled meats or roasted vegetables.
  • Bacon adds a smoky and salty taste to the ragout, complementing the earthy cranberry beans perfectly.