Dried bean soup

Bean soup with tarragon - A traditional recipe full of flavors

Bean soup is a classic dish, rich in flavor, that reminds us of hearty meals from childhood, when the intense aroma of boiled beans intertwined with those of fresh vegetables and smoked meat. This variant of the soup, with white beans and a pronounced tarragon accent, is not only delicious but also nutritious. Perfect for cool days, bean soup is often served with fresh bread and onions, creating a savory and comforting combination.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 6 - 8

Essential ingredients:

- 500 g dried beans (preferably white, with small grains)
- 300 g smoked bacon
- 250 g Debretin sausages (or other types of smoked sausages)
- 1 medium carrot
- 1 medium onion
- 1 parsley root (optional)
- 1 piece of celery (about 50 g)
- 2-3 tablespoons of oil (sunflower or olive)
- 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- 1 tablespoon of chopped tarragon (ideally preserved in salt)
- 1 teaspoon of dried marjoram
- 2-3 tablespoons of vinegar (to taste)
- 3 liters of water
- Salt, to taste

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the beans: Start by washing the beans under a cold water stream. Then, soak them in cold water for at least 8 hours or, ideally, overnight. This step will help reduce cooking time and achieve a finer texture.

2. Boiling the beans: The next day, drain the beans and change the water. Place them in a large pot with 3 liters of fresh water and bring to a boil. Once it starts boiling, let it simmer for a few minutes, then drain the water again. This step is essential to eliminate any substances that may cause gastric discomfort.

3. Preparing the soup base: In another pot, add the diced smoked bacon and 1.5 liters of water. Let it boil over medium heat for about 15-20 minutes, until the meat becomes tender.

4. Adding the vegetables: Peel and chop the vegetables (carrot, onion, parsley root, celery) into small pieces. When the bacon is almost cooked, add the beans and the prepared vegetables to the pot with bacon. Add water if necessary, and let everything simmer over low heat for about 2 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. Preparing the roux: In a separate pan, heat the oil and add the flour, stirring constantly to obtain a golden roux. When ready, extinguish with the tomato paste and a few tablespoons of soup, mixing well to avoid lumps.

6. Thickening the soup: Add the roux obtained to the pot with the soup and mix well. This step will give the soup a creamy texture and rich flavor. If you prefer a more liquid soup, you can skip this step.

7. Adding the sausages and seasoning: Slice the sausages and add them to the pot. Season with salt, vinegar, tarragon, and marjoram. Let the soup boil for another 10-15 minutes, so the flavors blend perfectly.

8. Serving: Bean soup with tarragon is served hot, alongside fresh bread, and can be garnished with finely chopped red onion for added flavor.

Tips and useful advice:

- Substitutions: If you don't have tarragon, you can use dill or oregano, but they won't provide the same distinct taste. Additionally, for extra flavor, you can add a few bay leaves during boiling.
- Calories and nutritional benefits: Bean soup is an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, making it a healthy choice for a nourishing meal. One serving (about 300 ml) contains approximately 200-250 calories, depending on the amount of meat used.
- Frequently asked questions: Can you use canned beans? Although not recommended, if you choose this option, make sure to wash them well to remove salt and preservatives.
- Variations: You can add potatoes or cabbage for extra volume and texture. You can also experiment with different types of sausages or chicken meat for a lighter version.

Bean soup is more than just a simple meal; it is a culinary experience that combines tradition and innovation. Enjoy every bite, relishing the unmistakable aroma of tarragon and the velvety texture of the beans. So, prepare your ingredients and let’s enjoy this culinary wonder together!