Pin By Lisa Brathwaite On Food Snob!

This week, our growing appetite led us to discover a traditional dish from Cape Verde. Known for its rich and flavorful cuisine, Cape Verde offers a variety of dishes that reflect its vibrant culture and history. One dish that stood out to us was the Cape Verdean Bean and Sausage Stew, also known as Jagacida.

Cape Verdean Bean and Sausage Stew (Jagacida)

This hearty stew combines the earthy flavors of beans, the smokiness of sausage, and aromatic spices to create a truly comforting and satisfying dish. The recipe we found on Food.com has garnered rave reviews and we couldn’t wait to try it ourselves.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb dried red kidney beans
• 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cups water

Instructions:

1. Soak the dried kidney beans in water overnight. Drain and rinse.
2. In a large pot, heat some oil and sauté the sliced sausage until browned.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until softened.
4. Stir in the paprika, cumin, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Cook for a few minutes to release the flavors.
5. Add the soaked kidney beans to the pot and pour in the water.
6. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 1 hour or until the beans are tender.
7. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste.

This Cape Verdean Bean and Sausage Stew is best served hot, alongside some crusty bread or rice. The combination of tender beans, smoky sausage, and aromatic spices will transport you to the vibrant streets of Cape Verde.

How to Prepare:

• Soak the dried kidney beans overnight to ensure they cook evenly and become tender.
• While sautéing the sausage, make sure to brown it well to enhance its smoky flavor.
• The addition of paprika, cumin, and thyme adds depth of flavor to the stew.
• Simmer the stew on low heat to allow all the flavors to meld together.

The preparation time for this Cape Verdean Bean and Sausage Stew is relatively simple and should take around 15 minutes. However, the cooking time may vary depending on the tenderness of the beans. Plan for approximately 1 hour of cooking time.

Servings:

This recipe yields about 6 servings, making it perfect for a family dinner or for leftovers throughout the week. The stew can also be frozen for future enjoyment.

Nutrition Facts:

The Cape Verdean Bean and Sausage Stew is a hearty and nutritious meal. While the exact nutrition facts may vary, the combination of beans and sausage provides a good balance of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. It is a great option for those looking for a filling and satisfying dish.

Tips:

• Feel free to customize this stew by adding other vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or tomatoes.
• If you prefer a spicier flavor, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes.
• For a vegetarian version, you can omit the sausage and replace it with plant-based sausage or add more vegetables.

This Cape Verdean Bean and Sausage Stew is a delightful dish that showcases the flavors and traditions of Cape Verde. Whether you’re a fan of hearty stews or looking to explore a new cuisine, this recipe is sure to please your taste buds and leave you satisfied.