Linguica is a Portuguese smoked sausage traditionally used in many dishes along coastal New England. It is spiced with garlic, cumin and red pepper. Chorizo or another smoked sausage can be substituted.

Nantucket Baked Beans

8 ounces smoked sausage or linguica, diced
4 ounces ground beef round
1 cup chopped onion
2 teaspoons chopped garlic
2 (15-ounce) cans kidney or navy beans, rinsed, drained
1 cup tomato sauce
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano leaves
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper
2/3 cup fresh white bread crumbs

1. Sauté sausage, ground beef, onion and garlic in large skillet until meat is browned and onion is tender, about 10 minutes. Drain well.
2. Combine meat mixture and remaining ingredients, except bread crumbs, in 2 1/2-quart casserole.
3. Bake at 350º (175ºC), uncovered for 1 hour. Sprinkle top of casserole with bread crumbs and bake until crumbs are lightly browned, 20 to 25 minutes.

Makes 6 servings (about 1 1/4 cups each).

Recipe provided courtesy of The Bean Education & Awareness Network.