Authentic Fabada Asturiana: Traditional Spanish Stew Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 lb dried fabes (Asturian beans), soaked overnight
  • 1 lb Spanish chorizo sausage
  • 1/4 lb Spanish morcilla (blood sausage), optional
  • 1/4 lb Spanish jamon (ham)
  • 1 large onion, peeled and chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, peeled and chopped
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Steps and instructions

  1. Place the beans in a large pot and cover with water. Let them soak overnight.
  2. Drain the beans and place them in a large pot. Add the chorizo, morcilla, jamon, onion, and garlic to the pot.
  3. Add the smoked paprika, broth, bay leaves, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
  4. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 2 hours, or until the beans are tender and the flavors are well combined.
  5. Remove the bay leaves from the pot before serving.
  6. Serve the fabada hot, garnished with chopped parsley.

Tools for making

  • Large pot - Needed to cook the beans and other ingredients.
  • Knife - Used for chopping the onion, garlic, and parsley.
  • Cutting board - Provides a surface for chopping ingredients.
  • Measuring cups - Used to measure the broth and other liquids.
  • Wooden spoon - Essential for stirring the beans and other ingredients.
  • Skimmer - Used to skim any foam or impurities that rise to the surface while cooking.
  • Serving bowls - Needed to serve the fabada.

Recipe variations

  • Vegetarian Variation: Omit the chorizo, morcilla, and jamon to make a vegetarian version of Fabada Asturiana. Increase the amount of smoked paprika and add additional vegetables such as carrots, celery, and bell peppers for added flavor.
  • Seafood Variation: Add seafood such as clams, mussels, or shrimp to the recipe for a delicious seafood twist on Fabada Asturiana.
  • Spicy Variation: Add some spicy elements like chopped jalapenos or red pepper flakes to give the dish a kick of heat.
  • Bean Variations: Experiment with different types of beans such as white beans or kidney beans to create your own unique version of Fabada Asturiana.
  • Herb Variations: Incorporate different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves to enhance the flavor profile of the dish.

Recipe overview

Fabada Asturiana is a hearty and flavorful stew hailing from the Asturias region of Spain. This dish is characterized by its rich combination of beans, chorizo sausage, morcilla (Spanish blood sausage), and jamon (Spanish ham), all cooked together until the flavors meld perfectly. Traditionally, it's cooked slowly over low heat, allowing the smokiness of the paprika and the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine through. The result is a deeply satisfying meal that's perfect for cold winter nights or as a special treat for family gatherings. While the recipe requires some time for the beans to soak and the stew to simmer, the actual preparation is simple and straightforward. So, get ready to enjoy a taste of Spanish comfort food right in your own home with this Fabada Asturiana recipe!

Common questions

  1. Can I use canned beans instead of dried? No, it is recommended to use dried fabes for the authentic flavor and texture of Fabada Asturiana.
  2. Can I substitute the Spanish chorizo sausage with another type of sausage? While it may alter the taste, you can substitute it with a different type of spicy cured sausage if necessary.
  3. Is the morcilla (blood sausage) necessary? No, it is optional. If you prefer, you can omit the morcilla or substitute it with another type of sausage.
  4. Can I use regular paprika instead of smoked paprika? Smoked paprika adds a distinct flavor to the dish, but if you don't have it, you can use regular paprika as a substitute.
  5. Can I use beef or vegetable broth instead of chicken broth? Yes, you can use beef or vegetable broth as an alternative to chicken broth based on your preference or dietary restrictions.
  6. How can I serve Fabada Asturiana? Traditionally, Fabada Asturiana is served as a main course, accompanied by crusty bread. It can also be enjoyed with a side salad.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Large Pot - A large pot is needed to cook the beans and other ingredients.
  • Knife and Cutting Board - These tools are necessary for chopping the onion, garlic, and parsley.
  • Stirring Spoon - A stirring spoon will be useful for stirring the ingredients while cooking.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons - Measuring cups and spoons are needed to accurately measure the broth, smoked paprika, and other ingredients.
  • Strainer - A strainer will be helpful for draining the soaked beans before cooking.
  • Potato Masher - A potato masher can be used to slightly mash some of the beans and thicken the fabada, if desired.
  • Soup Bowls - Serve the fabada in soup bowls for a comforting and hearty presentation.
  • Soup Spoons - Soup spoons are ideal for enjoying this delicious dish.

Origin stories

Fabada Asturiana is a hearty and traditional bean stew from the region of Asturias in Northern Spain. It's a dish that's synonymous with the rugged, mountainous landscape, the chilly weather, and the hardy people of this region. The story goes that it was conceived by the Asturian miners who needed a robust and nourishing meal to sustain them through their grueling workdays. The rich flavors of the fabada reflected the very soil they toiled in, with each ingredient representing a different aspect of their homeland. From the locally grown fabes beans to the smoky chorizo and morcilla sausages, every bowl of fabada tells a tale of Asturian resilience and resourcefulness. It's a dish that's deeply embedded in the cultural fabric of this region, a culinary heritage that's passed down through generations, and a delicious testament to the Asturian spirit of survival and celebration of life.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.