Québécois Pork and Bean Casserole
Cassole de Porc et Fèves
A hearty and comforting casserole featuring slow-cooked pork, beans, and a rich, savory sauce, often seasoned with molasses and mustard. This dish is a testament to Quebec's culinary heritage, emphasizing simple, wholesome ingredients.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Pork shoulder(cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 150 g Salt pork(diced)
- 2 medium Onions(chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic cloves(minced)
- 500 g Dried navy beans(soaked overnight and drained)
- 1/4 cup Molasses
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp Brown sugar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 4 cups Chicken broth
- 2 Bay leaves
- to taste Salt and black pepper
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
💡 Tip: Low and slow cooking is key for tender pork. - 2
In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, sauté the diced salt pork over medium heat until crispy. Remove salt pork with a slotted spoon, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
⏱️ 5-7 minutes - 3
Add the cubed pork shoulder to the pot and brown on all sides in the rendered fat. Remove pork and set aside.
⏱️ 8-10 minutes - 4
Add the chopped onions to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
⏱️ 6 minutes - 5
Return the pork to the pot. Add the drained navy beans, molasses, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, chicken broth, and bay leaves. Stir to combine.
💡 Tip: Ensure beans are fully submerged in liquid. - 6
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer on the stovetop.
💡 Tip: Taste and adjust seasoning before baking. - 7
Cover the pot tightly and transfer to the preheated oven. Bake for 3 hours, or until the pork is tender and the beans are cooked through.
⏱️ 3 hours - 8
Stir in the reserved crispy salt pork before serving. Remove bay leaves.
💡 Tip: Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Soaking beans overnight is crucial for even cooking.
- ✓Adjust molasses and mustard to your preference.
- ✓This dish benefits from being made a day in advance, as flavors meld overnight.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a diced carrot or celery for extra flavor.
- A splash of apple cider vinegar can add a touch of acidity.