1. Preparing the Ingredients:
- Slice the potatoes into ¼-inch rounds and set them aside.
- Thinly slice the onion and mince the garlic.
- Chop the bacon, if using, and cut the sausages into 2-inch pieces.
2. Cooking the Bacon (if using):
- In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 5 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
3. Browning the Sausages:
- In the same pot with the bacon fat, add the sausage pieces. Brown them on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausages and set them aside with the bacon.
4. Sautéing the Vegetables:
- Add the sliced onions to the pot. Cook over medium heat until they become translucent and slightly caramelized, about 8 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, or until fragrant.
5. Layering the Ingredients:
- Return the browned sausages and bacon to the pot.
- Begin layering the potato slices on top of the sausage and onion mixture, slightly overlapping them if necessary.
6. Adding the Broth and Seasonings:
- Pour the beef or chicken broth and water over the layered ingredients.
- Add the fresh parsley, dried thyme, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper.
- If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mix the flour with a small amount of water to create a slurry and stir it into the broth at this stage.
7. Cooking the Coddle:
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 45-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded together.
8. Finishing Touches:
- Check the seasoning and adjust salt and pepper if necessary.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving.
9. Serving:
- Ladle the coddle into bowls and garnish with additional chopped parsley if desired.
- Serve with crusty bread for dipping or alongside a fresh green salad.
Tips and Variations:
- Vegetable Additions: You can add other vegetables like carrots or parsnips to the pot for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you like a bit of heat.
- Slow Cooker Option: This dish can be made in a slow cooker. Brown the sausages and bacon first, then add all the ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Rustic Dublin Coddle is a comforting and filling dish that brings together simple ingredients to create something truly special. It’s a great way to enjoy a taste of Ireland, even if you’re miles away from Dublin. Enjoy this hearty stew with family and friends for a truly satisfying meal.