CP Beans with Smoked Sausage

CP Beans with Smoked Sausage

2 pounds smoked turkey sausage, cut into 1 1/2 inch pieces
1 T. vegetable oil
1/3 cup minced shallots
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups dried small white beans, about 1 pound
2 cups water
1/4 cup minced fresh or 1 T. dried thyme
1 t. celery seeds
1/4 t. freshly ground black pepper
2 cans fat free less sodium chicken broth (14 oz. each)
Thyme sprigs for garnish, optional

Heat large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add sausage, and sauté 5 minutes or until browned. Remove from pan; place in electric slow cooker. Heat oil in pan over medium heat. Add shallots and garlic; cook 1 minute, stirring constantly. Sort and wash beans. Add beans, shallot mixture, water and next 4 ingredients, through broth, to slow cooker. Cover with lid; cook on hi for 8 hours or until beans are tender. Garnish with thyme. Makes 8 servings Source: Cooking Light