Bean soup with smoked meat

Name: Bean soup with smoked meat - Miruna C.
Ingredients: 400 g beans; 1 large onion; 2 carrots; 1 bell pepper; smoked meat (ham hock; rib; etc.); 2 bay leaves; peppercorns; thyme; 1 tablespoon sweet paprika; tarragon; tomato paste; salt; 2; 3 tablespoons oil; dill and/or fresh parsley

Soups - Bean soup with smoked meat by Miruna C. - Recipia

Bean soup with smoked meat: a traditional, hearty recipe full of flavors Total time: 2 hours Preparation time: 30 minutes Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes Number of servings: 6-8 Bean soup is a dish that has gathered numerous stories around it over time. This recipe is a perfect combination of the flavor of beans, smoked meat, and fresh vegetables, making it an ideal dish for a family meal or to warm the hearts of friends. Moreover, it is filling and full of nutrients, an excellent choice for colder days. Necessary ingredients: - 400 g of beans - 1 large onion - 2 carrots - 1 bell pepper - 200 g of smoked meat (bacon, ribs, etc.) - 2 bay leaves - 5-6 peppercorns - 1 teaspoon of dried thyme - 1 tablespoon of sweet paprika - 1 teaspoon of dried tarragon - 2-3 tablespoons of oil - 2-3 tablespoons of tomato paste - Salt, to taste - Fresh dill and/or parsley for garnish Useful tips about ingredients: 1. Beans: It is ideal to use dried beans, which should be soaked overnight. This step not only reduces cooking time but also aids in the digestion of beans. 2. Smoked meat: Choose quality smoked meat that will give a rich flavor to the soup. If you prefer a leaner option, you can opt for smoked poultry. 3. Vegetables: Choose fresh, seasonal vegetables. Carrots add sweetness, while bell peppers provide a note of freshness. 4. Spices: Thyme, tarragon, sweet paprika, and pepper are the ones that transform this soup from a simple dish into a memorable culinary experience. Step-by-step preparation technique: 1. Preparing the beans: On the same day, after soaking the beans, change the water and put them to boil in a large pot with cold water. When it starts to boil, discard the water and rinse the beans under a stream of cold water, then repeat this process twice. This helps remove substances that can cause digestive discomfort. 2. Boiling the beans: After the three boils, add the beans to hot water, along with the bay leaves, peppercorns, and well-washed smoked meat. Cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat. 3. Preparing the vegetables: In a pan, heat the oil and add the chopped onion. Sauté until it becomes translucent, then add the grated carrots and diced bell pepper. Sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes. 4. Adding vegetables to the soup: When the beans are half-cooked, add the vegetable mixture to the pot with the beans. Then add thyme, tarragon, and sweet paprika. Stir gently. 5. Finalizing the soup: Once the beans and smoked meat are fully cooked, adjust the soup with salt and add the tomato paste. Let it boil for another 2-3 boils to blend the flavors. 6. Serving: Turn off the heat and sprinkle chopped dill or parsley on top. Bean soup is served hot, alongside a slice of homemade bread and, if desired, a splash of hot pepper. Personal note: Bean soup is often better the next day, when the flavors have had time to develop. I encourage you to prepare a larger quantity and keep it in the fridge for a quick meal on busy days. Nutritional benefits: Beans are an excellent source of plant-based proteins, fiber, and minerals, making them a staple ingredient in healthy eating. The smoked meat adds flavor, but make sure not to overdo it to keep the dish lighter. Frequently asked questions: 1. Can I use canned beans? - Yes, but you should rinse them well before adding them to the soup. This will reduce cooking time. 2. How can I make the soup spicier? - Add a bit of hot pepper or spicy seasoning to the vegetable mixture. 3. What other recipes go well with bean soup? - A summer salad with fresh vegetables or warm polenta are excellent accompaniments to this soup. Possible variations: You can experiment with different types of smoked meat, even adding a few slices of sausage or even smoked fish for a different flavor. You can also replace tomato paste with fresh tomatoes, and the result will be just as delicious. Bean soup with smoked meat is more than just a simple meal; it is an experience that brings family and friends together, a dish that combines tradition with innovation, offering each meal a note of warmth and goodness. So, do not hesitate to prepare this delight and enjoy the moments spent around the table!