Spicy Black Bean Stew with Lamb Sausage


In a large enameled cast-iron Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat oil over moderately high heat. Add sausage and cook, stirring and breaking up any lumps, until browned, 6 to 8 minutes. Transfer sausage to a paper towel–lined plate to drain. Add the onion, carrot, celery, jalapeño, and 1/2 teaspoon salt to pot, and cook over moderate heat, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 8 minutes. Add garlic and cumin, and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in beans, chipotle, and sausage. Add 6 cups water and bring to a simmer. Cook, covered, over moderately low heat until beans are tender, 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours.


Mash some beans with the back of a fork to make the stew creamy, then stir in lime juice and season with salt. Serve stew over steamed rice with cilantro and orange wedges.