Hearty Chicken Sausage & White Bean Stew

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

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Kitchen Equipment:

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Stirring spoon
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

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Directions:

Step 1: Sauté the Sausage

1. Heat the Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Brown the Sausage: Add the sliced chicken sausage to the pot and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until browned. Use a spoon to break it up into smaller pieces as it cooks.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables

1. Incorporate Aromatics: Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and bell pepper to the pot. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.

Step 3: Build the Stew

1. Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced tomatoes, white beans, chicken broth, dried thyme, dried oregano, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
2. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the stew simmer for about 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. If you’re adding spinach or kale, stir it in during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Step 4: Serve

1. Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning as needed. Remove the bay leaf.
2. Garnish: Ladle the stew into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired, and serve hot.

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Tips and Tricks:

1. Sausage Variations: Feel free to use any type of chicken sausage you prefer, such as Italian, spicy, or herbed varieties for different flavor profiles.
2. Vegetable Swaps: This stew is versatile! You can add other vegetables like zucchini, potatoes, or green beans based on what you have on hand.
3. Make It Spicy: If you like a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the stew.
4. Cooking Ahead: This stew keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it perfect for meal prep. Just reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave when you’re ready to eat.

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