Italian Sausage Stew

This hearty Italian Sausage Stew is a perfect meal for cooler weather, offering a rich and flavorful combination of savory sausage, tender vegetables, and aromatic herbs. The stew is slowly simmered to bring out the deep flavors of Italian seasoning, making it a satisfying dish to warm your soul. Serve it with crusty bread or over a bed of polenta for a cozy and filling dinner that’s perfect for family gatherings or an easy weeknight meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, chopped
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp fennel seeds (optional)
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Brown the sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, transfer the sausage to a plate.
2. Sauté the vegetables: In the same pot, add the onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and the onion turns translucent.
3. Add the broth and tomatoes: Pour in the chicken broth and canned tomatoes, including their juice. Stir in the oregano, basil, fennel seeds (if using), and crushed red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Simmer the stew: Return the browned sausage to the pot, then cover and let the stew simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add the zucchini and beans: After 20 minutes, stir in the zucchini slices and cannellini beans. Continue to simmer for another 10-15 minutes, until the zucchini is tender.
6. Season and serve: Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping.

Enjoy this comforting and flavorful stew!