Bean soup with smoked meat

Bean soup with smoked meat is a traditional dish that has gathered countless recipes and variations over the years, each with a distinct taste but the same comforting essence. This soup has the power to remind us of family meals, of chilly days when we seek warmth from a steaming, aromatic bowl. I invite you to discover with me how to prepare a delicious bean soup with smoked meat, step by step.

Preparation Time
- Soaking Time: 24 hours
- Cooking Time: 1 hour and 25 minutes
- Total: 1 hour and 49 minutes
- Servings: 6

Ingredients
- 400 g white beans (ideal for soup)
- 2 medium carrots
- 1 parsnip
- 2 medium onions
- 1 bell pepper
- 1 white bell pepper
- 1/2 small celery
- 1 potato
- 500 g smoked pork belly
- 1/2 can tomatoes in juice
- Fresh dill (to taste)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)

Useful Ingredients
- Cold water (for soaking and boiling)
- Oil (optional, for sautéing the onion)

Step by Step: Preparing Bean Soup with Smoked Meat

Step 1: Soaking the Beans
Start by washing the beans under cold running water. Then, place the beans in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Let them soak for 24 hours, changing the water a few times. This step is essential as it helps reduce cooking time and improves the digestibility of the beans.

Step 2: Boiling the Beans
After the beans have soaked, drain the water and place the beans in a large pot. Add fresh water, enough to cover the beans by 5 cm. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat. Change the boiling water twice during the process (to eliminate any substances that may cause digestive discomfort) before adding the peeled and diced potato in the last water.

Step 3: Adding the Smoked Meat
After about an hour of boiling the beans (the time may vary depending on the type of beans), add the pork belly cut into smaller pieces. Let it boil together with the beans for another 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine and the meat to become tender.

Step 4: Preparing the Vegetables
In the meantime, peel and finely chop the carrots, parsnip, onion, bell peppers, and celery. When the beans and meat are almost cooked, remove the potato (you can mash it and add it back to the soup for a creamier texture) and add the chopped vegetables. Let it boil for about 15-20 minutes until the vegetables become soft.

Step 5: Completing the Soup
Finally, add the tomatoes in juice and let it boil for another 10 minutes. This ingredient will provide a pleasant acidity to the soup, balancing the flavors. Taste and add salt and pepper to your liking. At the end, sprinkle with chopped fresh dill, which will add a note of freshness.

Serving
Serve the bean soup with smoked meat hot, alongside red onion, which will add a crunchy contrast and a subtle flavor. You can accompany it with a slice of homemade bread or polenta for an extra flavor.

Practical Tips
- Beans: Make sure to use quality beans. White beans are ideal for this recipe, but you can also experiment with other types, such as red or black beans.
- Smoked Meat: Pork belly provides a distinct flavor, but you can substitute it with smoked sausages or even vegetarian smoked meat if you want a lighter version.
- Vegetables: Be creative! You can also add other vegetables, such as zucchini or pumpkin, to vary the taste and texture.
- Tomatoes: Instead of canned tomatoes, you can use fresh tomatoes in season for an even more vibrant flavor.

Nutritional Benefits
Bean soup is not only delicious but also very nutritious. Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients such as iron and magnesium. The smoked meat adds healthy fats, while the vegetables contribute to a high intake of vitamins and minerals.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make the soup without smoked meat? Absolutely! You can make a delicious vegetarian version by omitting the smoked meat and adding other spices for extra flavor.
- How long can the soup be stored? Bean soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, and the flavors become even richer the next day.
- Can I freeze the soup? Yes, bean soup can be frozen. Make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in airtight containers.

Variations and Combinations
This soup pairs perfectly with a pickled salad or a slice of garlic toast. A recommended drink would be a dry white wine, which will complement the rich flavors of the soup, or an herbal tea for a comforting effect.

Personal Note
Personally, I like to add a bit of hot pepper to the soup to give it a touch of spice. Also, feel free to try different types of smoked meat or even add a splash of lemon juice when serving for a note of freshness.

I hope this bean soup with smoked meat recipe inspires you to cook and enjoy warm moments around the table with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!