Bean soup with smoked bacon and pasta

Bean soup with smoked bacon and pasta is a traditional dish that combines the rich flavors of vegetables with the taste of smoked meat. It is an excellent choice for cool days when you need a comforting meal to warm your soul. Additionally, it is a perfect recipe to prepare alongside loved ones, turning cooking into a joyful and sharing activity.

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

Ingredients:
- 500 g of tarra bean (or white bean)
- 4-5 carrots
- 1/2 parsley root (if large)
- 1 slice of celery root (use less if very large)
- 1 onion
- 1/2 red bell pepper
- 1 can (400 g) of tomato paste
- Salt, to taste
- 2 cups of homemade borscht
- Tarragon from a jar, pickled with vinegar (about 2 fingers)
- 300-400 g of smoked bacon
- 1 handful of pasta (shells, spirals, or any preferred type)
- 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil

History of bean soup
Bean soup is a traditional dish in many cultures, with deep roots in rural kitchens. It was an efficient way to use available ingredients in households, and bacon added extra flavor and consistency. With each family having its own recipe, it is a dish that brings together memories and stories, turning meals into special moments.

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Before you start cooking, make sure you have all the ingredients prepared. Wash the beans and soak them in cold water the night before, to rehydrate and cook faster. Clean the vegetables: carrot, parsley, celery, and onion. Cut them into equal-sized cubes to ensure even cooking.

2. Sautéing the vegetables:
In a large pot, add the 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes transparent. Then add the carrots, parsley, and celery. Sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes or until they become slightly soft. This step will bring the flavors to life and prepare the base for the soup.

3. Adding the bell pepper and water:
After the vegetables are sautéed, add the diced bell pepper. Mix well and let it sauté for 2-3 minutes. Then pour water (about 2 liters) over the sautéed vegetables, so they are covered. Let it boil over medium heat.

4. Preparing the beans and bacon:
Remove the beans from the water (remember to rinse them) and add them to the pot. Cut the bacon into appropriately sized pieces and add it as well. Add salt to taste. Cover the pot with a lid and let it boil for about 30-40 minutes, or until the beans are well cooked.

5. Adding the pasta:
Once the beans are cooked, add the pasta to the soup and let it boil for 7-10 minutes until softened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

6. Finalizing the soup:
Finally, add the homemade borscht, tomato paste, and tarragon. These ingredients not only provide a wonderful taste but also a vibrant appearance to the soup. Let it boil for another 5 minutes, then taste and adjust the salt if necessary.

7. Serving:
Bean soup with bacon is served hot, garnished with a little chopped fresh parsley. It can be accompanied by a slice of fresh bread or polenta, which will perfectly complement the rich flavors of the dish.

Useful tips:
- If you want a vegetarian version, you can omit the bacon and add more vegetables for a delicious taste.
- It is ideal to use homemade borscht, but if you don’t have it, you can add the juice of a lemon or vinegar for a pleasant acidity.
- You can experiment with various types of pasta, from classic to whole grain, to add extra nutrients.
- If you like a spicier soup, add a little hot pepper while sautéing the vegetables.

Nutritional benefits:
Bean soup is rich in proteins, fibers, and vitamins, providing excellent nutritional value. Beans are a good source of iron and magnesium, while the vegetables add essential vitamins such as vitamins A and C. This soup is not only delicious but also healthy, making it an excellent choice for a balanced meal.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use canned beans?
Yes, you can use canned beans, but make sure to rinse them well before adding them to the soup. Cooking time will be significantly reduced.

- Can bean soup be frozen?
Yes, this soup can be frozen. Make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in airtight containers.

- What can I serve with bean soup?
The soup pairs perfectly with fresh bread, polenta, or a summer salad. Additionally, a glass of white wine or herbal tea can complement the meal.

Bean soup with smoked bacon and pasta is not just a delicious recipe, but also an opportunity to spend quality time with loved ones. So gather your family or friends around the table, prepare this delicacy, and enjoy every bite!