Bean soup with kaiser

Bean soup with kaiser - A traditional recipe full of flavor

Bean soup with kaiser is an emblematic dish that brings together the rich flavors of fresh vegetables and the savory taste of kaiser. This comforting soup has been a popular choice across many cultures due to the nutritional richness of beans and the ease of preparation. It is a recipe that combines tradition with comfort, perfect for cold winter evenings or a hearty lunch on weekends.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 250 g white beans
- 2.5 l water
- 2 medium carrots
- 2 onions (one for the soup, another for sautéing)
- 1/2 celery (or 100 g root celery)
- 1 bell pepper (any color you prefer)
- 2 ripe tomatoes
- 2-3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2-3 tablespoons sunflower or olive oil
- 175 g kaiser
- a few sprigs of fresh parsley
- a few sprigs of fresh lovage
- tarragon (optional)
- salt, to taste

Preparation:

1. Preparing the beans: Start by soaking the white beans in a bowl of cold water overnight. This step is essential as it helps reduce cooking time and avoid digestive discomfort. The next day, drain the beans and rinse them well under cold water. Then, place them in a large pot with warm water, changing the water 2-3 times to remove any impurities and reduce anti-nutritional substances.

2. Boiling the beans: After changing the water, add a little salt to the last water. Boil the beans over medium heat, covering the pot. This process will take about 30-40 minutes, depending on the type of beans used. Make sure the beans are well cooked but not too soft, so they retain their shape.

3. Preparing the vegetables: While the beans are boiling, peel and chop the vegetables. Slice the carrots, finely chop the onion and bell pepper, and grate or cube the celery. Cut the tomatoes into slices, preparing them to add to the soup at the end.

4. Sautéing the ingredients: In a frying pan, add the oil and sauté the finely chopped onion until it becomes translucent. Add the diced kaiser and let it fry until it becomes crispy. This will add a delicious flavor to your soup.

5. Adding the vegetables: Once the beans are boiled, add the sautéed vegetables, carrots, celery, and bell pepper to the pot with the beans. Let everything simmer together for 15-20 minutes, until the vegetables become tender. Then, add the sliced tomatoes and tomato paste. These will enrich the flavor of the soup and add vibrant color.

6. Finalizing the soup: After all the ingredients have simmered together, taste the soup and add salt to your liking. Finally, you can add a few chopped sprigs of parsley and lovage for an extra touch of freshness. If you prefer a sour soup, you can add a bit of vinegar or borscht, but the basic recipe is delicious even without souring.

7. Serving: Bean soup with kaiser is served hot, along with finely chopped red onion for a contrast of textures and flavors. It is an excellent choice to be accompanied by a slice of fresh bread or polenta.

Useful tips:
- You can experiment with different types of smoked meat, such as bacon or ham, to vary the flavor of the soup.
- Add other vegetables, such as zucchini or potatoes, for a richer variant.
- If there is leftover soup, you can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and the flavor will intensify.

Nutritional benefits: Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and vitamins (especially B vitamins). They are low in fat and rich in antioxidants, helping to maintain heart and digestive health.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use canned beans? Yes, but it is recommended to rinse them well before use and reduce the cooking time.
- How long can I keep the soup? The soup can be kept in the refrigerator in airtight containers for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Ideal pairings: This soup pairs perfectly with a dry white wine or a light beer, which will complement the smoky flavors of the kaiser.

This bean soup with kaiser recipe is not only a nourishing dish but also a way to bring family and friends together at the table, offering a warm, comforting meal full of goodness. Enjoy your meal!