Sausage, Mushroom, and Breton Cider Stew

Introduction

There’s something comforting about a hearty stew that warms both the body and the soul, and this Sausage, Mushroom, and Breton Cider Stew does just that. The combination of juicy herby sausages, earthy mushrooms, and the slight sweetness of Breton cider creates a dish that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. As I prepared this recipe for my family, the delightful aroma wafted through the kitchen, prompting eager anticipation. When it was finally served, everyone couldn’t help but dig in, and the compliments flowed as they savored each spoonful. It’s a dish that not only nourishes but also brings people together, making it an instant hit in our household.

Ingredients

• Olive oil (for cooking)
• 6 good-quality herby sausages
• Knob of unsalted butter
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 1 leek, sliced
• 5 garlic cloves, finely sliced
• 200g chestnut mushrooms, halved
• 15g plain flour
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 500ml cider (ideally Breton cider)
• ¼ bunch tarragon or parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Brown the Sausages

Start by heating a large heavy-bottomed pan or casserole dish over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil to the pan. Once hot, add the sausages and brown them on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once they are nicely browned, remove them from the pan and set aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pan, add a knob of unsalted butter. Allow it to melt and then add the sliced onion, leek, garlic, and halved mushrooms. Cook for about 8 minutes, stirring regularly, until the vegetables are caramelized and softened. This step adds depth of flavor to your stew.

3. Make the Roux

Next, sprinkle the plain flour and Dijon mustard into the pan. Stir for about 1 minute to coat the vegetables and create a roux, which will help thicken the stew.

4. Add the Cider and Sausages

Gradually pour in the Breton cider while stirring to avoid any lumps. This will deglaze the pan, picking up all those lovely browned bits from the bottom. Return the sausages to the pan along with any juices that may have collected. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.

5. Season and Add Herbs

Before serving, season the stew with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Stir in the chopped tarragon or parsley just before serving to add a fresh, vibrant flavor.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Servings: 4
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve the stew hot in bowls.
• Garnish with additional fresh herbs for an appealing presentation.
• Pair with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Additional Tips

1. Sausage Choices: Opt for high-quality sausages with herbs for the best flavor. Feel free to mix different types (like chicken or pork) for a unique twist.
2. Cider Selection: A dry Breton cider enhances the stew’s flavor profile. However, any good-quality cider will work.
3. Mushroom Varieties: While chestnut mushrooms are delicious, feel free to substitute with other mushrooms like cremini or shiitake for added flavor.
4. Vegetable Variations: Add other vegetables such as carrots or parsnips for extra texture and nutrition.
5. Thickening the Stew: If you prefer a thicker stew, let it simmer longer to reduce further or add more flour to the roux.

Recipe Variations

• Herby Variation: Experiment with different herbs such as rosemary or thyme instead of tarragon or parsley.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce to bring some heat to the dish.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the sausages with vegetarian sausages and use vegetable stock instead of cider for a lighter version.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a light green salad.
• Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
• Consider a glass of cider or a light white wine to complement the flavors of the stew.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Leftover stew can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This stew freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use other types of meat in this stew?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different meats such as chicken or beef.

2. What can I use instead of cider?
If cider is not available, white wine or chicken stock can be used as substitutes.

3. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free sausages and replace plain flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

4. Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
Yes, brown the sausages and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours.

5. What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?
You can use yellow mustard or omit it entirely if you prefer a milder flavor.

6. Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It stores and reheats well, making it great for meal prep.

7. Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Adding vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or peas can enhance the dish.

8. How spicy is this stew?
This stew is not spicy. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding chili flakes if you want more heat.

9. How do I know when the sausages are cooked?
Sausages should be browned on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F).

10. Can I serve this dish cold?
This stew is best served hot, but you can enjoy it at room temperature if preferred.

Conclusion

This Sausage, Mushroom, and Breton Cider Stew is a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire. With its comforting flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or served at a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress. The combination of herby sausages, earthy mushrooms, and the unique touch of Breton cider makes it a standout recipe that’s simple to prepare yet full of flavor. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and indulge in this delightful stew that warms the heart and satisfies the soul. Enjoy!

Print