Classic French Cassoulet

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Classic French Cassoulet.

1. Step 1

   To create a delicious cassoulet with Great Northern beans, start by soaking the beans in a large bowl of water overnight.

2. Step 2

   This step is crucial for achieving that perfect texture.

3. Step 3

   The next day, drain the beans and transfer them to a spacious soup pot.

4. Step 4

   For a burst of flavor, take a whole clove and insert it into half an onion, then add this aromatic duo to the pot along with the beans.

5. Step 5

   Toss in some smashed garlic, a bay leaf, thyme, rosemary, and pour in 10 cups of water.

6. Step 6

   Bring this delightful mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook over medium-low heat for about an hour, or until the beans start to soften.

7. Step 7

   Once they’re ready, drain the beans, reserving the flavorful cooking liquid, and discard the onion, clove, and bay leaf.

8. Step 8

   Now, transfer the beans to a large mixing bowl and set them aside.

9. Step 9

   While the beans are cooking, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for the final bake.

10. Step 10

    In a heavy Dutch oven, cook some bacon over medium heat until it’s lightly browned but still a bit soft, which should take around five minutes.

11. Step 11

    Next, add diced celery, carrots, and half of the diced onion, seasoning everything with a pinch of salt.

12. Step 12

    Stir the vegetables in the bacon fat until they become tender, which will take about ten minutes.

13. Step 13

    In a separate skillet, heat a teaspoon of olive oil over medium heat.

14. Step 14

    Add the sausage link halves and duck confit, cooking them for about five minutes on each side until they’re beautifully browned.

15. Step 15

    Once they’re ready, return to the vegetable-bacon mixture and season it with 1 ½ teaspoons of salt, cracked black pepper, and herbes de Provence.

16. Step 16

    Pour in some diced tomatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, until the tomato juice has nearly evaporated and any tasty browned bits from the bottom of the pot have dissolved, which should take about five minutes.

17. Step 17

    Stir this flavorful mixture into the beans, creating a hearty blend.

18. Step 18

    Now, it’s time to assemble your cassoulet.

19. Step 19

    Spread half of the bean mixture into the bottom of the Dutch oven, then layer the duck and sausage mixture on top.

20. Step 20

    Finish by topping it with the remaining beans.

21. Step 21

    Pour just enough of the reserved bean liquid over the beans to barely cover them, saving any extra for later.

22. Step 22

    Bring the cassoulet to a gentle simmer on the stovetop, then cover the Dutch oven with a lid and place it in the preheated oven to bake for 30 minutes.

23. Step 23

    While the cassoulet is baking, melt some butter in a large skillet over medium heat.

24. Step 24

    Add crushed garlic cloves, panko crumbs, and fresh parsley to the melted butter, seasoning with salt and black pepper.

25. Step 25

    Drizzle in a tablespoon of olive oil and stir everything together until well combined.

26. Step 26

    After 30 minutes, uncover the cassoulet and check the liquid level; there should still be a few inches of liquid.

27. Step 27

    If it looks a bit dry, don’t hesitate to add more of that reserved bean liquid.

28. Step 28

    Spread half of the crumb mixture evenly over the beans and return the pot to the oven.

29. Step 29

    Bake uncovered for another 20 minutes, ensuring there’s still about 2 to 3 inches of liquid at the bottom.

30. Step 30

    If it seems dry, add more reserved liquid as needed.

31. Step 31

    Once that’s done, sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the top.

32. Step 32

    Finally, increase the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake the cassoulet uncovered until the crumb topping is golden and crisp, and the edges are bubbling with excitement, which should take about 20 to 25 more minutes.

33. Step 33

    When it’s ready, serve the beans on individual plates, generously topped with pieces of duck and several slices of sausage.

34. Step 34

    Enjoy this comforting dish that’s sure to warm your heart and delight your taste buds!.