Bean soup with dried green beans and chicken pastrama

Bean soup with dry bean paste and smoked chicken pastrama - a traditional dish that combines rich flavors and comforting texture, perfect for cool days. This recipe is not just a delicacy, but also a story that connects us to the culinary traditions of those who have cooked with passion and dedication over time. Let's dive into the universe of this delicious soup!

Total preparation time: 2 hours
Cooking time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients

- 200 g of beans
- 250 g of dry bean paste
- 1 large onion
- 1 carrot
- ½ red bell pepper
- 1 yellow bell pepper
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 4-5 cloves of garlic
- salt, pepper, and paprika to taste
- 200 g of smoked chicken pastrama
- Fresh herbs (parsley or dill)

Recipe history

Bean soup is a symbol of traditional cooking, prepared by generations. Legumes, such as beans, are excellent sources of protein and nutrients, included in the diet of many cultures. This recipe combines two types of beans, adding extra texture and flavor, while the chicken pastrama provides a smoky taste that perfectly complements the soup.

Step by Step

Step 1: Preparing the beans
The night before you start cooking, soak the beans. This will reduce cooking time and aid digestion. Additionally, the dry bean paste can be soaked for about 2 hours to rehydrate.

Step 2: Cleaning and chopping the vegetables
Peel the onion, carrot, and bell peppers. Chop the onion finely, cut the carrot into small cubes, and slice the bell peppers into strips. These vegetables will provide a flavorful base for the soup, so make sure to cut them evenly.

Step 3: Sautéing the vegetables
In a large pot, add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and sauté the onion over medium heat until it becomes translucent. Then, add the carrot and bell peppers and continue to sauté for another 5-7 minutes. This step will intensify the flavors and provide a delicious base for the soup.

Step 4: Cooking the beans
Once the vegetables are sautéed, drain the beans and add them to the pot. Then, add the dry bean paste along with 1.5 liters of water. Let it boil over medium heat for about 40 minutes or until the beans become soft. You can add water occasionally if necessary.

Step 5: Adding the pastrama
When the beans are nearly cooked, add the chicken pastrama cut into cubes. Continue to boil the soup for another 10-15 minutes. Add salt and pepper to taste, and paprika can be added at the end for an extra touch of color and flavor.

Step 6: Finalizing the soup
Finally, mince 4-5 cloves of garlic and add them to the soup along with the fresh herbs. This will give an intense and fresh flavor to the dish.

Serving
Serve the soup hot, with a slice of fresh bread on the side. You can add a spoonful of sour cream if you like a creamier taste. A summer salad with tomatoes and cucumbers is an ideal accompaniment.

Tips and useful advice
- Beans: Make sure the beans are well-soaked to reduce cooking time. You can use canned beans for a quick version, but the taste won't be as intense.
- Pastrama: If you don't have chicken pastrama, you can also use smoked sausages or even bacon for a different flavor.
- Vegetarian option: You can omit the pastrama and add tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version. You can also add more vegetables, such as zucchini or celery.
- Flavor building: If you like a spicier taste, add a bit of dried or fresh chili pepper.

Nutritional benefits
This soup is rich in protein due to the beans, also having a high fiber content, which aids digestion. The vegetables provide essential vitamins and antioxidants, while the chicken pastrama offers quality protein.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use canned beans?
Yes, but add them towards the end of cooking so they don't fall apart.

2. How long can I keep the soup?
The soup can be kept in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can freeze it for later use.

3. Can I add other vegetables?
Of course! Zucchini, potatoes, or celery are excellent options to vary the recipe.

This bean soup with dry bean paste and smoked chicken pastrama is a dish that brings back memories of family meals and the comfort of home. Enjoy every serving and share the joy of cooking with your loved ones! Bon appétit!