Bean Soup with Bacon

Bean soup with kaizer is a traditional recipe that evokes familiar tastes and the comfort of home. This soup is perfect for chilly days, offering not only a delicious flavor but also important nutritional benefits. Beans, rich in protein and fiber, make this soup an excellent choice for a nourishing meal. Additionally, combined with smoked kaizer, the soup acquires an unmistakable flavor that will delight any food lover.

The total preparation time is about 2 hours, and this recipe will provide you with approximately 6 generous servings. Let's get started!

Necessary ingredients:

- 250 g white beans
- 2.5 l water
- 2 carrots
- 2 onions
- 1/2 celery
- 1 bell pepper
- 2 tomatoes
- 2-3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2-3 tablespoons oil
- 175 g kaizer
- A few sprigs of parsley
- A few sprigs of lovage
- Tarragon (optional)
- Salt, to taste

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the beans: The night before, soak the beans in cold water. This step is crucial as it helps reduce cooking time and improves the digestibility of the beans.

2. Boiling the beans: The next day, drain the beans and rinse them under cold running water. In a large pot, add the beans and 2.5 liters of warm water. Bring to a boil, changing the water 2-3 times to eliminate any substances that may cause gastric discomfort. In the last water, add a little salt.

3. Preparing the vegetables: While the beans are boiling, wash and peel the carrots, onion, celery, and bell pepper. Cut the carrots and celery into small cubes, and the onion and bell pepper into scales. These will add a rich flavor and pleasant aroma to the soup.

4. Adding the vegetables: After the beans have boiled for about 1 hour, add the chopped vegetables to the pot. Let them boil together for 15-20 minutes until they become tender. Add the sliced tomatoes and a few chopped sprigs of parsley and lovage.

5. Preparing the kaizer: In a separate pan, add 2-3 tablespoons of oil and sauté the kaizer cut into cubes until it becomes golden and crispy. Add the finely chopped onion and continue to sauté until the onion becomes translucent. This step will intensify the soup's aroma.

6. Combining the ingredients: Add the mixture of kaizer and onion to the soup, along with the tomato paste. Let everything simmer on low heat, blending the flavors for 10-15 minutes. Check the taste and adjust with salt as desired.

7. Finishing the soup: Once the soup is cooked, remove it from the heat and, if desired, add the tarragon and lovage for extra flavor. You can sour the soup with vinegar or borscht, depending on your preferences, but many prefer it sweet.

8. Serving: The bean soup with kaizer is served hot, ideally alongside a red onion. This adds a pleasant contrast and a fresh touch. You can accompany the soup with a slice of fresh bread or polenta, which will perfectly complete the meal.

Practical tips:

- Beans: Choose high-quality white beans, free of impurities. If you don't have time to soak them, you can use canned beans, but the taste will be different.
- Kaizer: You can replace kaizer with bacon or ham, depending on your preferences. These will add a distinctive flavor.
- Vegetables: You can also add other vegetables, such as zucchini or potatoes, to make an even more nourishing soup.
- Vegetarian option: If you want a vegetarian version, you can omit the kaizer and add a tablespoon of olive oil for extra flavor.

Nutritional benefits:

This soup is an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and vitamins. White beans contribute to maintaining digestive health, while vegetables add essential antioxidants. The kaizer provides a good dose of healthy fats, and fresh herbs bring aroma and additional nutrients.

Frequently asked questions:

Can I use canned beans?
Yes, but make sure to rinse them well before use to remove salt and preservatives.

How can I tell if the beans are cooked?
The beans are cooked when they become soft and can be easily pressed between your fingers.

Is the soup good for freezing?
Yes, the soup can be frozen, but it is recommended to leave it without souring and to add lemon juice or vinegar when serving.

Personal stories:

Every winter, when the weather turns cold, my family prepares bean soup with kaizer to bring us warmth and comfort. It is a dish that gathers us at the table, where stories and laughter intertwine with the delicious aromas of the steaming soup. I remember my grandmother teaching us to make the soup step by step, and now I have taken on this tradition as well. It is important to keep these recipes alive, passing them on to future generations.

Enjoy your meal and happy cooking! This bean soup with kaizer will surely become a favorite in your kitchen!