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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.