Delicious Kale White Bean Sausage Stew

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Are you looking for a fast and delicious weeknight dinner? I’ve got you. I created this recipe on the fly one chilly autumn evening, and it was so fast and easy, I decided to share it with you! This hearty kale, white bean, sausage stew features amazing flavors and nourishing bone broth, and it’s chock full of healthy ingredients.

This recipe can easily be made into a soup or a stew. Stew lovers can use less broth, or you can add more broth to make it a soup. It’s a great source of protein, minerals, collagen- and gelatin-rich broth, antioxidants and fiber. AND I add curry powder so you get the amazing benefits of turmeric.You can leave out the curry and add some dried thyme and oregano if you prefer.

This recipe is very customizable. Leave out the sausage and use vegetable broth if you’re vegetarian; the beans provide protein. You can use whatever spices you like. If I get Italian crumbly sausage I leave out the curry in favor of thyme & oregano. Get creative if you wish.

This recipe comes together quickly: just brown the sausage, soften the leek (or use onion and garlic if you have that on hand), then add veggies, broth, and beans and let it simmer together. I also add a parmesan rind, a bay leaf, and a dash of tamari for a deeper flavor.

Kale White Bean Sausage Stew

A delicious and nourishing weeknight soup or stew chock full of healthy yummies.

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Servings: 4

Course: Soup

Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

• 12 ounces crumbly Italian sausage OR use 3 chicken or sweet pork sausages, sliced 1-inch thick (NOTE: you can leave the sausage out for a vegetarian option; just increase the beans or add different types of beans for variety).
• 1 leek halved lengthwise, cleaned well and thinly sliced (a yellow onion works fine too)
• 2 large carrots, sliced into thin half moons or discs
• 3 cups bone broth or vegetable broth use 4 cups for soup and 3 or less for stew
• 1 bunch dino kale, stemmed, washed and chopped can also use Swiss chard or spinach, but these greens will cook much faster so be aware
• 1 can (14oz) cannellini or navy beans, drained and rinsed (white beans, your choice)
• 1 tsp curry powder omit in favor of italian spices
• 2 tsp garlic powder can also use a few cloves diced garlic
• sea salt & freshly ground pepper to taste
• pinch cayenne, for a kick. I prefer a few shakes Aleppo pepper.
• top with cilantro if desired

Equipment

• Dutch oven

Method

 

1. Coat bottom of a Dutch oven in thin layer olive oil and heat over medium-high flame.
2. Add the sausage and brown well on all sides, about 5 minutes. Don’t worry if the sausage isn’t cooked through in the center. After browning the sausage, remove it from the pot with a slotted spoon and set aside. (skip this step for veg)
3. Add the leek to the pot and reduce heat to medium. Sauté until leek starts to caramelize, about 10 minutes, then add the carrot. Cook together an additional 3 or so minutes, then add the broth to the pot.
4. Cover and bring to a boil. Once carrots have softened a bit, stir in the kale and add the beans and sausage.
5. You can add parmesan rind (don't eat it), dash tamari, bay leaf for more flavor
6. Add seasonings. Return to a simmer and cook until the flavors meld together, about 15 minutes. Taste to correct seasonings and add more broth if you want it more soup-like.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can this kale white bean sausage stew be made as a soup instead?

Yes, this recipe easily adapts to a soup or stew. Use about 3 cups of broth for a thicker, hearty texture. For a lighter soup consistency, add 4 cups or more broth. Adjusting the liquid allows you to control richness while keeping flavor balanced and nourishing.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make this dish vegetarian, remove the sausage and replace bone broth with vegetable broth. White beans provide plant based protein and fiber. You can increase the bean quantity or add varieties like cannellini or navy beans for texture and added nutrients.

What greens can I use if I do not have kale?

Swiss chard or spinach are excellent substitutes for kale. Because they cook more quickly, add them toward the end of simmering to avoid overcooking. This keeps their color vibrant and texture tender while maintaining nutrients and fresh flavor.

What does adding curry powder do to the stew?

Curry powder adds warmth and depth while introducing turmeric, which is valued for antioxidant and anti inflammatory support. It shifts the flavor profile slightly. For a traditional Italian style, skip curry and use thyme, oregano, or rosemary instead.

Why use bone broth in this recipe?

Bone broth enhances flavor while providing collagen, gelatin, and trace minerals that support gut and joint health. It creates a richer mouthfeel than regular broth. If unavailable, vegetable broth still produces a comforting, balanced stew.

How long does this stew need to simmer?

After browning the sausage and softening vegetables, simmer the combined ingredients for about 15 minutes. This allows flavors to develop fully and ensures the beans and greens are heated through without becoming overly soft.

Can I customize the spices and ingredients?

Yes, this recipe is flexible and easy to personalize. Change the sausage type, adjust broth levels, swap greens, or experiment with herbs and spices. Adding a parmesan rind, bay leaf, or small splash of tamari can deepen flavor naturally.