
Classic French Cassoulet
A rich, slow-cooked casserole with white beans, duck confit, sausages, and pork.
30 mins
Prep Time
4 hours
Cook Time
6
Servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups dried white beans (such as Tarbais or cannellini), soaked overnight
- 4 duck confit legs
- 4 Toulouse sausages
- 8 oz pork shoulder, cubed
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bouquet garni (thyme, bay leaf, parsley)
- 4 cups chicken stock
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Nutrition Facts
Instructions
Drain the soaked beans and place them in a large pot. Cover with fresh water, bring to a boil, then simmer for 45 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.
In a large Dutch oven, brown the pork shoulder cubes over medium heat until golden. Remove and set aside.
In the same pot, brown the sausages on all sides. Remove and slice into thick pieces once cooled.
Add the chopped onion, carrots, and garlic to the pot. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Return the pork and sausages to the pot. Add the cooked beans, duck confit, bouquet garni, and chicken stock. Season with salt and pepper.
Bring to a simmer, then transfer to a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C). Cook uncovered for 3 hours, occasionally pressing the breadcrumbs into the top to form a crust.
Remove the bouquet garni before serving. Let the cassoulet rest for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Chef's Tips
- Bean Tip: For extra creaminess, mash some of the beans before adding them to the pot.
- Duck Confit Substitute: If duck confit is unavailable, use chicken thighs cooked in duck fat.
- Slow Cooker Option: Assemble all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Wine Pairing: Serve with a robust red wine like Cahors or Malbec.
- Storage: Cassoulet tastes even better the next day. Reheat gently in the oven.