Bean soup with smoked meat

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!