Bean soup with tarragon

Bean soup with tarragon: A comforting delight that will warm your heart

Total time: 2 hours
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Servings: 6

Bean soup is a traditional recipe, full of flavor and nostalgia, that reminds us of Sunday meals surrounded by family. This recipe is not only a symbol of comfort but also an excellent source of plant-based proteins, fiber, and vitamins, making it a healthy choice for those looking to adopt a balanced lifestyle.

Ingredients

- 300 g dried beans (preferably white or yellow)
- 400 g smoked ribs (for a rich taste)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 parsnip, peeled and diced
- 1 parsley root, peeled and diced
- 1 small celery, peeled and diced
- 1 bell pepper (can be red or green), finely chopped
- 2 bunches of fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon of tarragon in vinegar (or 1 tablespoon of dried tarragon to enhance flavor)
- Oil for sautéing
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- Salt, to taste
- Optional: vinegar, to adjust acidity

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the beans: The first essential step is to soak the beans in cold water the night before. This step not only helps reduce cooking time but also makes the beans easier to digest. Make sure the beans are completely covered with water.

2. Preparing the ingredients: On the cooking day, clean and chop all the vegetables. The onion, carrots, parsnip, parsley root, celery, and bell pepper should be finely chopped to cook evenly. These vegetables will add a rich flavor and a sweet taste to the soup.

3. Boiling the beans: Wash the soaked beans and place them in a pressure cooker along with the smoked ribs and a little salt. Boil over medium heat for about an hour. The pressure cooker will speed up the cooking process and make the beans soft and delicious.

4. Preparing the vegetables: In a separate pot, heat a few tablespoons of oil and add the chopped onion. Sauté the onion until it becomes transparent, then add the carrots, parsnip, parsley root, celery, and bell pepper. Sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes to enhance their flavors, then add water and let them simmer on low heat.

5. Combining the ingredients: Once the beans are cooked, transfer them to a larger pot and add the separately cooked vegetables. Remove the smoked ribs, debone them, and add the meat to the pot with beans and vegetables. Add extra water if necessary and adjust the salt.

6. Finalizing the soup: Let the soup come to a boil, then add the tomato paste, tarragon, and if you want a tangier taste, you can add a little vinegar. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to combine. Finally, add the finely chopped dill for an extra touch of freshness.

7. Serving: The bean soup is served hot, ideally accompanied by chopped red onion and, for an authentic experience, in crusty bread. This will add a pleasant contrast and make the soup even more flavorful.

Practical Tips

- Types of beans: Although white beans are the most commonly used, you can experiment with red or yellow beans for a different note.
- Vegetarian version: If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can omit the ribs and add more vegetables, or use a vegetarian smoker to add a smoky flavor.
- For a more intense flavor: You can add a few black peppercorns during boiling or even a few bay leaves for a complex aroma.
- Sour soup: If you like sour soup, add more vinegar or use tarragon in vinegar. You can experiment with different types of vinegar to discover your favorite combination.

Nutritional Benefits

Bean soup is rich in plant-based proteins, fiber, and vitamins A, C, K. Beans contribute to digestive health, helping to maintain a strong immune system. Additionally, smoked ribs provide a good source of iron and zinc, essential for energy and overall health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can bean soup be made without ribs?
Yes, the soup can be prepared vegetarian by adding more vegetables or using a vegetarian smoker.

How long can the soup be stored?
Bean soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it to enjoy later.

What other dishes can bean soup be paired with?
This soup pairs perfectly with polenta or fresh bread. Also, a spicy pepper sauce will add a bit of heat.

Final Note

Whether you prepare it for a family dinner or to impress guests, bean soup with tarragon is a simple yet flavorful dish that will bring a touch of warmth and comfort to every home. Enjoy!