Cassoulet

This is a comforting French peasant stew simmered with small beans, plant-based sausages, garlic, tomatoes, thyme, and greens.

It’s the kind of dinner you curl up with on the couch after an emotionally exhausting day. Like a warm hug from your safe person, if you have one.

The best part is you can start it a couple hours ahead, and then just sit back and relax while it gently fills your home with the smells of a country cottage in France.

If you need some grounding today, here is your dinner.

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Ingredients

• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• 2 tsp garlic granules, or chopped garlic, or garlic powder
• 2 tsp thyme
• 2 Tbsp nutritional yeast
• 1 cup of your favorite tomato sauce
• 2-3 cups dried chili beans or cannellini beans, soaked overnight, drained and rinsed
• 3-4 cups of water or vegetable broth to cover the beans
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper
• 2 plant-based sausages, cut into small pieces (I used Field Roast Smoked Apple and Sage sausages)
• 1 bunch of your favorite greens, chopped into small pieces (I used local broccoli greens)

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Directions

Soak the beans overnight, or for at least 4 hours.

Put everything in a large pot except the greens. Bring to a boil, then reduce to medium heat for a bubbling simmer. Let it bubble for about 2 hours, stirring it every 20 minutes or so.

Add the greens in the last 5 minutes. Taste for salt and pepper. It should be rich, flavorful, and delicious. So simple!

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Inspiration

“Letting go gives us freedom, and freedom is the only condition for happiness. If, in our heart, we still cling to anything—anger, anxiety, or possessions—we cannot be free.” – Thich Nhat Hanh

May you find something to let go of today and feel greater freedom and peace.