Ingredients

1 cup dried red kidney beans , picked over and rinsed
2 tablespoons finely chopped ham fat
1/2 lb smoked bacon , sliced
1 1 lb smoked Polish kielbasa or 1 lb any german style smoked hunter 's sausage , cut into 1/2 inch pieces
1 lb carrot , cut into 1/4 inch thick rounds
4 medium size onions , sliced 1/4 inch thick ( about1 3/4 pounds total )
2 granny smith apples , peeled , cored , and cut into wedges
2 lbs boiling potatoes , peeled and sliced 1/4 inch thick
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon cornstarch , dissolved in
2 tablespoons water
1/4 cup unsalted butter
Dutch Brown Bean Stew, also known as Vijfschaft, is a traditional Dutch dish that has been popular for centuries. It is said to have originated in the northern province of Groningen, where farmers would prepare it using ingredients that were readily available. The stew is made with red kidney beans, bacon, sausage, and a variety of vegetables including carrots, onions, and apples. It is rich and flavorful, with a slightly sweet taste from the apple and carrot. Vijfschaft is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own, or served with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It is perfect for cold winter days and is guaranteed to warm you up from the inside out.

Instructions

1.Rinse and soak the beans overnight to soften them.
2.In a large pot, heat the ham fat over medium-high heat.
3.Add the bacon and cook until it begins to brown and crisp.
4.Add the sausage and cook until browned on all sides.
5.Add the carrots, onions, and apples to the pot and sauté for 10 minutes until they begin to soften.
6.Drain the beans and add them to the pot along with 6 cups of water, followed by the potatoes and salt.
7.Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 hours until the beans are tender.
8.In a small bowl, dissolve cornstarch in water and add to the stew, stirring gently to thicken.
9.Finish by stirring in unsalted butter and serving hot.

PROS

Dutch Brown Bean Stew is a hearty and filling dish that is perfect for cold winter days.
The combination of kidney beans, bacon, sausage, and vegetables provides a balanced meal in one pot.

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge and reheated easily.

CONS

The dish is quite high in fat due to the use of bacon and sausage, and is not recommended as part of a diet that is meant to lose weight.
However, it can still be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Dutch Brown Bean Stew is a great source of protein, fiber, and potassium, and provides a range of nutrients including vitamin C, vitamin A, and iron.
The stew is also low in cholesterol and can help maintain healthy blood sugar levels.

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