Description: Fabada Asturiana is a hearty and flavorful Spanish bean stew originating from the Asturias region. This traditional dish is made with large white beans (fabes), chorizo, morcilla (Spanish blood sausage), and various pork cuts. It is a comforting and filling meal, perfect for cold weather.
History: Fabada Asturiana has been a staple in Asturian cuisine for centuries. It is typically associated with the winter months when hearty, warming dishes are in demand. The use of locally sourced ingredients, especially the unique varieties of sausages and beans, gives this stew its distinctive flavor.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Soaking Time: for Beans: 12 hours (overnight)
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Serving Size: Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 500g (1 lb) dried white beans (fabes)
- 1 chorizo sausage, sliced
- 1 morcilla (Spanish blood sausage), sliced
- 200g (7 oz) pancetta or bacon, cut into chunks
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (pimentón)
- Salt to taste
- Water
Instructions:
Soak the Beans: Place the dried beans in a large bowl and cover them with plenty of water. Let them soak overnight (approximately 12 hours). Drain and rinse the beans before cooking.
Cook the Beans: In a large pot, add the soaked beans and cover them with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let them simmer gently for 10 minutes. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface.
Add the Meats: Add the chorizo, morcilla, and pancetta to the pot with the beans. Let them simmer together for about an hour.
Prepare the Sofrito: In a separate pan, heat a small amount of oil and sauté the onion and garlic until they are soft and fragrant. Add the smoked paprika and stir well.
Combine Ingredients: Add the sofrito mixture to the pot with the beans and meats. Add the bay leaf and continue to simmer for another hour, or until the beans are tender and the flavors have melded together. Add salt to taste.
Serve: Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the stew into bowls, ensuring each portion has a good mix of beans, sausage, and pork. Serve hot with crusty bread.
Final Thoughts: Fabada Asturiana is a quintessential dish that embodies the rich culinary traditions of Asturias. Its robust flavors and hearty ingredients make it a perfect comfort food. Enjoying a bowl of this stew is like taking a delicious journey to northern Spain.