Rustic Sausage and Tomato Stew
What Started it all:
Here’s what I see in your pantry and fridge from the photos you uploaded: ⸻ Proteins & Refrigerated Items: • Italian sausage • Parmesan cheese (grated) • Eggs • Butter (Kerrygold) • Milk • Heavy whipping cream (at least one carton visible) ⸻ Fresh Produce: • Onion • Garlic • Fresh spinach • Tomatoes (Roma-style) • Bell peppers (orange and red) • Lemons • Jalapeño peppers ⸻ Dry Goods & Pantry Items: • Canned tomatoes • Tomato paste • Chicken broth (boxed) • Olive oil • Balsamic vinegar • Apple cider vinegar • Dijon mustard • Pasta (multiple types visible including penne, spaghetti) • Arborio rice (ideal for risotto) • Polenta or cornmeal • Panko breadcrumbs • Various hot sauces ⸻ Spices & Seasonings (partial list from visible containers): • Basil • Oregano • Thyme • Rosemary • Bay leaves • Paprika (likely smoked) • Chili powder • Crushed red pepper • Cumin • Garlic powder • Onion powder • Black pepper • Salt (likely kosher or sea) • Nutmeg • Cayenne ⸻ With this setup, you’ve got the makings for: • Risotto • Stuffed peppers or mushrooms • Baked polenta with sausage ragu • Shakshuka with Italian sausage twist • Creamy soups • Elegant frittata or quiche-style dishes • Rustic sausage and tomato stew
This hearty Rustic Sausage and Tomato Stew is a delightful blend of Italian flavors, packed with protein and fresh vegetables. Perfect for a family dinner, this dish is not only comforting but also easy to prepare. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) canned tomatoes, diced
- 2 Roma tomatoes, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 orange bell pepper, chopped
- 1-2 jalapeño peppers, diced (adjust for spice preference)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the red and orange bell peppers, jalapeño peppers, canned tomatoes, and fresh Roma tomatoes to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Return the browned sausage to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and add the dried basil, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Stir in the fresh spinach and cook for an additional 5 minutes until wilted. Adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste.
- Ladle the stew into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese for a delicious finish.
This Rustic Sausage and Tomato Stew is a satisfying and flavorful meal that showcases the best of your pantry and fridge ingredients. Enjoy it with a slice of crusty bread or over a bed of polenta for an extra touch. Happy cooking!