Butternut Squash Stew with Sausage, Beans and Rice

 

It was a picture-perfect summer day to enjoy a bowl of 

Butternut Squash Stew with Sausage, Beans, and Rice 

It's hearty and packed with health benefits. Butternut squash is high in nutrients, low in calories, and an excellent source of vitamin A and a rich source of antioxidants.  Black and kidney beans are good sources of fiber and protein. Make the stew a day ahead, and it will taste even better because all the flavors will have time to meld. Pair the meal with artisan bread and a fresh fruit compote. All so deeeeelicios! 

Recipe adapted from cuisineathome.com (October 2017) and serves 4-6, depending on bowl size. 

Ingredients:

• 3 cups cooked and crumbled Italian sausage
• 1 cup each diced red or green peppers and sweet onions
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 cups diced butternut squash (look for precut butternut squash in produce as a timesaver) 
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon each chili powder, Saigon cinnamon, ground cumin and oregano
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 box 32 oz. low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes (garlic and oregano)
• 1 can of red kidney beans light or dark, rinsed and drained
• 1 can of black beans, rinsed and drained
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 3/4 cup dry Arborio (Italian) rice or any other short-grain white rice
• Optional: garnish with fresh cilantro

Directions:

• Preheat the oven to 425 degrees.
• Line a baking pan with parchment paper or a silicone liner.
• In a large bowl, add peppers, onion, minced garlic, squash cubes, and spices.
• Toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil and spread out evenly on the baking sheet.
• Roast for 15 minutes just until squash is al dente.
• In a large soup pot, add roasted mixture, cooked sausage, chicken broth, rinsed beans, tomato paste, and sugar. On low, bring to a boil and simmer for an hour uncovered.
• Add in rice last 10 minutes of cooking time, cover, and cook for 10 minutes more.
• Since rice absorbs the liquid, to reheat the next day, you may need to add more chicken broth.