LAMB RAGOUT

Steps:

• Combine 1 lb beans and enough water to cover in heavy large Dutch oven.
• Bring to boil.
• Remove from heat, cover and let stand 1 hour.
• Drain beans and return to Dutch oven.
• Shake dried mushrooms in strainer to remove any sand.
• Add mushrooms and chicken broth to beans and bring to boil.
• Reduce heat to medium-low, cover partially and simmer 30 minutes.
• Meanwhile, heat oil in large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Season lamb generously with salt and pepper.
• Working in batches, add lamb to skillet; saute until brown on all sides, about 5 minutes.
• Using slotted spoon, transfer lamb to large bowl.
• Add wine to skillet and bring to boil, scraping up and browned bits.
• Add wine and lamb to beans in Dutch oven.
• Mix in garlic.
• Cover partially; simmer 30 minutes.
• Uncover, add carrots and cook 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Add leeks and cream.
• Simmer until beans and lamb are tender, stirring occasionally, about 20 minutes.
• Add sausage.
• Using slotted spoon, transfer solids to a large bowl.
• Boil liquid until reduced to sauce consistency, about 10 minutes.
• Return solids to Dutch oven; simmer until heated through.
• Season to taste.
• Stir in basil.