**White Bean and Sausage Stew**

**White Bean and Sausage Stew**

**Ingredients:**

– 1 lb (450g) dried white beans (such as Great Northern or Navy beans), soaked overnight and drained
– 1 lb (450g) smoked sausage or andouille sausage, sliced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 green bell pepper, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
– 4 cups (960ml) chicken broth
– 2 cups (480ml) water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Cooked white rice (for serving)

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Beans:**
– After soaking the beans overnight, drain and rinse them. Set aside.

2. **Cook the Sausage:**
– In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sliced sausage over medium heat until browned. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.

3. **Sauté the Vegetables:**
– Add the chopped onion, garlic, bell pepper, and celery to the pot with the sausage fat. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.

4. **Add the Beans and Seasonings:**
– Stir in the soaked beans, bay leaf, thyme, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Pour in the chicken broth and water, and bring the mixture to a boil.

5. **Simmer the Stew:**
– Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the stew simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender. Stir occasionally and add more water if necessary to keep the beans submerged.

6. **Add the Sausage:**
– Once the beans are tender, return the browned sausage to the pot. Continue to simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

7. **Season and Serve:**
– Season the stew with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
– Serve the stew hot over a bed of cooked white rice, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.

This white bean and sausage stew is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy dinner. The combination of smoky sausage and creamy beans makes it a satisfying and flavorful meal. Enjoy!