Red beans with smoked meat and roasted peppers

Red beans with smoked meat and roasted peppers: A traditional recipe full of flavor

If you are looking for a dish that brings a touch of nostalgia and warmth to your soul, red beans with smoked meat and roasted peppers is the perfect answer. This dish is a symbol of traditional cuisine, often served in restaurants but easily replicated at home. I invite you to discover the simple steps to create a delicious stew that will impress family and friends.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Oven time: 20 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 40 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Essential ingredients:
- 1 kg red beans (large)
- 300 g smoked ribs
- 2 carrots
- ½ celery root
- Fresh celery leaves
- 2 onions
- 2 red bell peppers
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 3-4 bay leaves
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Smoked hot paprika (for an extra flavor)

Preparing the ingredients:
1. Red beans are the base of this dish, so the first step is to wash them well in several waters. This removes impurities and aids digestion. Soak them in cold water overnight. This step is essential as it allows the beans to rehydrate and cook evenly.
2. The next day, drain the beans and put them to boil in clean water. Let them come to a boil, then discard the water. This process helps remove substances that cause bloating.
3. Transfer the beans to a pressure cooker, add the smoked ribs cut into suitable pieces, the whole carrots, and celery along with the bay leaves. Boil for about 30 minutes from the moment it starts boiling. If you don't have a pressure cooker, you can use a regular pot. In this case, add a large tomato, cut in half, which will help the beans cook easier and add a touch of acidity to the dish.

Preparing the sauté:
1. While the beans are boiling, prepare the sauté. Heat a large pan and add the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion until it turns golden, then add the 2 diced bell peppers. They bring a sweet and aromatic flavor to the dish.
2. Continue with the smoked paprika, thyme, salt, pepper, and tomato paste. Mix well, then add a ladle of the liquid in which the beans boiled. This will intensify the flavors and make the sauce richer.

Finalizing the dish:
1. When the beans are al dente, transfer them to a large pot that can be used in the oven. Mix well with the sauce from the pan, then sprinkle the finely chopped celery leaves on top.
2. Place in a preheated oven at 180°C for 20 minutes, so the flavors blend perfectly. If you wish, you can remove the carrots and celery from the dish, but I prefer to keep them for added texture.

Serving:
Once the dish is ready, serve the red beans with smoked meat alongside roasted red bell peppers. The peppers can be served with a simple sauce made of honey, vinegar, salt, and water, which will give them a sweet and sour note. This contrast of flavors will make your dish a true delight.

Nutritional benefits:
Red beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and antioxidants. They contribute to heart health and help maintain healthy digestion. The smoked ribs add an unmistakable flavor, but, of course, they can be replaced with plant-based alternatives for a vegetarian version.

Variations:
If you want to experiment, you can add other vegetables, such as zucchini or eggplant, or you can replace the ribs with a few slices of smoked sausage. You can also use hot peppers for a spicy taste.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use canned beans? While I prefer to use dried beans, you can opt for canned beans for a quick version. Just make sure to rinse them well before use.
2. How can I store the beans after cooking? The dish can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop.
3. What wine pairs well with this dish? A dry white wine or a light rosé would be the ideal choice, enhancing the flavors of the food.

This dish of red beans with smoked meat and roasted peppers is not only delicious but also full of memories and stories. So gather your family and friends, enjoy the cooking process, and savor every bite of this delicacy! Enjoy your meal!