Fabada Asturiana (Asturian Bean Stew) Recipe

If you’re craving a warm, hearty meal, Fabada Asturiana might be just what you need. This traditional Asturian bean stew combines fabes, chorizo, and morcilla, creating a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible. Trust me, the smell wafting through your kitchen will have everyone asking, “What’s cooking?” You’ll want to soak your beans overnight, but don’t worry—it’s the little things that make this dish special. Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of crafting this comforting stew!

Ingredients Needed for Fabada Asturiana

When you think of comfort food, Fabada Asturiana shines like a warm beacon on a chilly day.

You’ll need 1 pound of fabes (Asturian beans), 6 ounces of chorizo, 6 ounces of morcilla (blood sausage), 1 onion, and 2 cloves of garlic.

Don’t worry if you can’t find fabes; any white bean works! Just remember, it’s all about that cozy flavor!

Preparing the Beans

Preparing the beans for Fabada Asturiana is a delightful step that sets the tone for the entire dish.

Start by soaking 500 grams of fabes (Asturian beans) overnight. This softens them and enhances their flavor.

Here’s what you’ll want to do:

• Rinse the beans thoroughly.
• Check for any debris or damaged beans.
• Enjoy the anticipation of the delicious meal ahead!

Sautéing the Aromatics

Now that those fabes are soaking and ready to go, let’s get those flavors rolling by sautéing the aromatics.

Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in one chopped onion, two minced garlic cloves, and a diced green pepper.

Sauté until they’re soft and fragrant—about five minutes. Trust me, the aroma will make your mouth water!

Cooking the Meats

To create the heart of our fabada, let’s plunge into cooking the meats!

Start by browning:

• 200g of chorizo, sliced thick
• 200g of morcilla (blood sausage), cut into chunks
• 150g of pancetta or bacon for that smoky flavor

Cook them in a pot until golden and fragrant.

Trust me, the aroma will make your kitchen feel like a warm hug!

Combining All Ingredients

Once you’ve got those meats sizzling and fragrant, it’s time to bring everything together for the ultimate fabada experience!

Toss in your soaked beans, rich broth, and a sprinkle of paprika. Stir gently, letting those flavors mingle.

Don’t forget to add a pinch of salt—just enough to enhance, not overpower! Trust me, the aroma alone will have you dreaming of Asturias.

Simmering the Stew

As you settle in for the simmering process, you’ll want to let your fabada stew work its magic on low heat.

This is where the flavors meld beautifully, so be patient!

• Keep an eye on the pot, stirring occasionally.
• If it’s too thick, add a splash of broth.
• Don’t forget to enjoy the aroma filling your kitchen!

Adjusting Seasoning

While your fabada is simmering, it’s the perfect time to taste and adjust the seasoning.

Start with a pinch of salt—add more if needed. A dash of smoked paprika can elevate the flavors, too.

If it’s too salty, toss in a few extra beans. Remember, it’s your stew, so trust your instincts!

Enjoy the process; cozy moments like these are what cooking’s all about!

Serving Suggestions

Now that your fabada is perfectly seasoned, it’s time to think about how you’ll serve this hearty dish.

Pair it with crusty bread to soak up that rich broth, or serve it alongside a simple green salad for a fresh crunch.

Don’t forget to add:

• A drizzle of olive oil
• Some crusty bread
• A glass of cider

Enjoy every delicious bite!

Storing Leftovers

When you find yourself with leftover fabada, don’t fret—it’s a treasure for future meals!

Cool it completely before transferring to airtight containers. It’ll last about three to four days in the fridge.

Want to keep it longer? Freeze it in portions!

Just remember, when reheating, add a splash of broth if it seems a bit dry. Enjoy that cozy goodness again!

Tips for Perfecting Your Fabada Asturiana

To truly nail your fabada asturiana, you’ll want to pay attention to a few key details that elevate the dish from good to unforgettable.

Here are my top tips:

• Use high-quality chorizo for that deep flavor.
• Soak your beans overnight to enhance their creaminess.
• Don’t rush the cooking; let it simmer gently for that rich taste.

Trust me, it’s worth the wait!