Ingredients

5 cups tarbais beans or 5 cups white beans
2 lbs fresh pork belly
1 onion , cut into 4 pieces
1 lb pork rind
1 bouquet garni ( see Glossary )
salt and pepper , to taste
1/4 cup duck fat
6 pork sausages
3 onions , thinly sliced
1 garlic clove , thinly sliced
4 confit duck legs
Originating in the south of France, Cassoulet is a traditional rustic dish made with white beans and various meats. Tony's version includes pork belly, pork rind, sausages, and confit duck legs, all cooked together with the beans for several hours to develop a rich, complex flavor. The dish is hearty, warming, and perfect for those cold winter nights when you need something to stick to your ribs. Despite the lengthy cooking time, the ingredient list is relatively simple, relying on a few key ingredients to create something truly special. While it may not be the most health-conscious meal out there, it's certainly worth indulging in every once in a while.

Instructions

1.Soak the beans in plenty of cold water overnight. Drain and rinse.
2.In a large pot, cover the beans with fresh water, add onion and bouquet garni. Cook over high heat for 10 minutes, then reduce the heat and let it simmer, covered, for about an hour.
3.Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 325°F (170°C).
4.In a large oven-proof casserole, layer the pork belly, pork rind, duck fat, and sausages, starting and ending with the pork belly.
5.Add the thinly sliced onions and garlic. Pour in enough hot bean water to come about two-thirds of the way up the pot.
6.Arrange the confit duck legs on top, then cover with a lid or parchment paper and aluminum foil.
7.Bake in the oven for 3-4 hours.
8.Remove the lid and bake for an additional 30 minutes until the meat is brown and crispy on top.

PROS

Tony’s Cassoulet is a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a cold winter night.
With its mix of meaty goodness and hearty beans, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.

CONS

This dish can be time-consuming to make, taking several hours to cook.
Additionally, with all the meat included, it’s not the healthiest option out there.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

While Tony’s Cassoulet is not exactly a health food, it does have some nutritional benefits. The beans provide a good source of fiber and protein, while the duck fat and pork belly are rich in healthy fats. This dish may not be the best for everyday consumption, but it can certainly be enjoyed as an indulgent treat every once in a while.

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