Vegetarian Cassoulet

Ingredients for Vegetarian Cassoulet

• 3 medium leeks (white and pale green parts only)

• 4 medium carrots, halved lengthwise and cut into 1-inch-wide pieces

• 3 celery ribs, cut into 1-inch-wide pieces

• 4 garlic cloves, chopped

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• 4 thyme sprigs

• 2 parsley sprigs

• 1 Turkish or 1/2 California bay leaf

• 1/8 teaspoons ground cloves

• 3 (550g) cans cannellini or Great Northern beans, rinsed and drained

• 0.9L water

• 950ml coarse fresh bread crumbs from a baguette

• 80ml olive oil

• 1 tablespoon chopped garlic

• 1/4 cup chopped parsley

How to make Vegetarian Cassoulet

Halve leeks lengthwise and cut crosswise into 1/2-inch pieces, then wash well and pat dry.

Cook leeks, carrots, celery, and garlic in oil with herb sprigs, bay leaf, cloves, and 1/2 teaspoons each of salt and pepper in a large heavy pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until softened and golden, about 15 minutes. Stir in beans, then water, and simmer, partially covered, stirring occasionally, until carrots are tender but not falling apart, about 30 minutes.

Preheat oven to 177°C with rack in middle.

Toss bread crumbs with oil, garlic, and 1/4 teaspoons each of salt and pepper in a bowl until well coated. Spread in a baking pan and toast in oven, stirring once halfway through, until crisp and golden, 12 to 15 minutes.

Cool crumbs in pan, then return to bowl and stir in parsley.

Discard herb sprigs and bay leaf. Mash some of beans in pot with a potato masher or back of a spoon to thicken broth. Season with salt and pepper. Just before serving, sprinkle with garlic crumbs.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.