Bean soup with crackling and smoked meat

Bean soup with smoked bacon and smoked meats

Bean soup with smoked bacon and smoked meats is a savory dish that brings not only an explosion of flavors to the plate but also a story full of tradition. This recipe is a staple at festive meals, as well as on ordinary days when the desire for a comforting dish calls us to a warm meal. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this soup quickly becomes a family favorite.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 500 g white beans
- 2 large carrots
- 1-2 pieces of parsnip
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- 1/2 bunch of fresh parsley
- 1 onion
- 500 g tomato sauce or purée
- 6-8 pieces of smoked bacon
- 2-3 slices of smoked ham / bacon / smoked bones (depending on preference)
- Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. Preparing the beans: Carefully select the beans, removing any damaged or spoiled ones. Rinse them well under cold running water. It is essential to soak them in cold water the night before, as this step will reduce cooking time and contribute to achieving a soft and pleasant texture. Soaked beans will cook faster and absorb the flavors from the soup better.

2. Cooking the beans: The next day, drain the beans and place them in a large pot, covering them with cold water. Add the peeled parsnip and the whole peeled onion. Boil over medium heat until the beans start to burst, indicating they are on their way to becoming soft and flavorful.

3. Adding the smoked meats: Once the beans have started to soften, add the chosen smoked meat (bacon, ham, or smoked bones), chopped dill, and parsley. Don't forget to slice the carrots into rounds and add them to the pot. Continue to boil the soup over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

4. Finishing the soup: When the beans are cooked, add the tomato purée or sauce. Stir well and let everything simmer for 10-15 minutes for the flavors to meld. At this point, adjust the taste with salt and pepper. It is important to add salt at the end, as it can prevent the beans from cooking properly if added too early.

5. Serving: Serve the soup hot, sprinkled with a little fresh dill or parsley for a touch of freshness. You can accompany the soup with a slice of homemade bread or polenta, and for those who appreciate bolder flavors, a sprinkle of well-dried hot pepper will add a kick.

Practical tips:
- If you want to reduce cooking time, you can use canned beans, but the taste will be slightly different. Make sure to rinse them well before adding them to the soup.
- This recipe allows for variations, so feel free to experiment with other vegetables like celery or potatoes to give it a personal touch.
- The bean soup with smoked bacon and smoked meats tastes even better the next day when the flavors have had time to combine.

Nutritional benefits:
Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and antioxidants. They contribute to digestive health and help maintain a healthy weight. While delicious, smoked meats should be consumed in moderation due to their higher sodium content.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use canned beans? Yes, but the taste will be different. Rinse the canned beans well and add them closer to the end of cooking.
- How can I make the soup spicier? Add fresh hot peppers or chili powder during cooking for an extra kick.
- Is the soup suitable for vegans? You can adapt the recipe using vegetables and spices to achieve a rich flavor without meat.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to get cooking. The bean soup with smoked bacon and smoked meats will pamper you with its warm and comforting flavors. Prepare it with love and enjoy every spoonful! Enjoy your meal!