Bean soup with ham hock

Bean soup with smoked knuckle: a warm indulgence on chilly days

Bean soup with smoked knuckle is one of those recipes that reminds us of moments spent with family, hearty meals, and the enticing aromas from grandma's kitchen. Every time we prepare this soup, we travel back in time to when we gathered around the table, sharing stories and laughter. It is a simple recipe, yet full of flavor, perfect for chilly days, warming our souls and nourishing our bodies.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients:
- 1 bowl of beans (approximately 400g)
- 1 smoked pork knuckle (approximately 600-800g)
- 2 large carrots
- 1 large onion
- 2 bell peppers (preferably one red and one green for color contrast)
- 1 cup of sauerkraut juice (approximately 250ml)
- 5 tablespoons of tomato paste
- salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 bunch of fresh tarragon
- 1 bunch of fresh thyme

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by thoroughly washing the smoked knuckle. It is important to remove any impurities, as the knuckle is an excellent source of flavor for the soup. If using dried beans, make sure they are well washed. If the beans are older, soak them in cold water for 4-6 hours or overnight. Fortunately, fresh beans do not require this step.

2. Boiling the knuckle and beans:
Place the knuckle in a large pot with water. Add the washed beans and let everything boil. After the water starts boiling, change it for fresh water. This step helps eliminate impurities and excess salt from the knuckle. Let it boil on medium heat until the beans are half cooked (about 1 hour).

3. Preparing the vegetables:
Meanwhile, peel the onion and chop it finely. Peel and dice the carrots, and cut the bell peppers into small pieces. These vegetables will add sweetness and flavor to your soup.

4. Adding the vegetables:
Once the beans are half cooked, add the onion, carrots, and bell peppers to the pot. Continue to boil everything together, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. After about 20 minutes, add the tomato paste, mixing well.

5. Seasoning the soup:
After the vegetables are cooked, add the sauerkraut juice, chopped thyme, and tarragon. These herbs will bring an extra freshness and flavor to your soup. Adjust the salt and pepper to taste. Let it boil for another 2-3 minutes so that the flavors blend perfectly.

6. Serving:
Bean soup with smoked knuckle is served hot, garnished with finely chopped green onion or, for those who prefer a spicy taste, with hot peppers. It is delicious alongside a slice of fresh, baked, or toasted bread.

Practical tip: If you want to add a touch of acidity, you can drizzle the soup with a few drops of apple cider vinegar or add lemon when serving.

Possible variations:
- If you want a vegetarian version, you can replace the knuckle with smoked soy or a piece of shiitake mushrooms, which add a unique umami flavor.
- You can experiment with adding other vegetables, such as peas or potatoes, to diversify the soup.

Nutritional benefits:
Bean soup is rich in plant-based proteins and fiber, making it an excellent choice for a healthy diet. Beans are also a good source of B vitamins, which help maintain energy levels. The smoked knuckle provides a rich dose of iron and essential vitamins.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use canned beans?
Yes, you can use canned beans, but make sure to rinse them well before adding them to the soup. In this case, the cooking time will be significantly reduced.

2. How can I enhance the flavor of the soup?
Adding spices like paprika or garlic can intensify the flavor of the soup. Also, a drizzle of olive oil when serving can improve the texture and taste.

3. What is the best way to store bean soup?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for later consumption. In this case, it is recommended to portion it before freezing.

Bean soup with smoked knuckle is not just a meal, but a culinary experience that brings warmth and comfort. It is a dish that combines tradition with innovation, making it suitable for any occasion. So, don’t hesitate to try this recipe, enjoy its aroma, and share it with your loved ones. I look forward to hearing how it turned out!