Smoked bean soup

Bean soup with smoked meat is a traditional dish that brings not only an explosion of flavors to the table but also a rich and nostalgic story. This recipe combines the taste of beans with the intense flavor of smoked meat, resulting in a hearty soup, perfect for cool days or family meals. Get ready to transform simple ingredients into something truly special!

General Information
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Cooking time: 1 hour
- Total time: approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Servings: 4-6

Ingredients
- 500 g beans (preferably white beans or kidney beans)
- 300 g smoked pork (shoulder or bacon)
- 1 medium onion
- 1 large carrot
- 2 large tomatoes (or 400 g canned tomatoes)
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried tarragon (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons sunflower oil or olive oil

Some tips about ingredients
1. Beans: Make sure the beans are of good quality. Old beans will require more cooking time. Soak the beans for 12 hours to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility.
2. Smoked pork: Choose meat with a moderate fat content, which will add flavor to the soup. Smoked bacon is an excellent choice.
3. Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes are ideal for a vibrant flavor. If using canned tomatoes, choose those without additives.
4. Spices: Tarragon adds a distinctive note to the soup. If you don’t have it on hand, thyme will work just fine.

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Soak the beans
Start by draining and rinsing the beans. Place them in a large bowl and cover with cold water. Let the beans soak for 12 hours or overnight. This step is essential to reduce cooking time and improve texture.

Step 2: Boil the beans
After the beans have soaked, drain and rinse them again. Place them in a large pot, add enough water to cover them, and add a teaspoon of salt. Boil the beans for 10 minutes, then drain the water and replace it with fresh water. This process helps make the beans more digestible.

Step 3: Cook the beans
Return the beans to the pot, add fresh water, and simmer on low heat. Cover the pot and let the beans cook for about 30-40 minutes, or until the beans are tender.

Step 4: Prepare the meat
In another pot, add the smoked meat, cover it with water, and add a teaspoon of salt. Boil the meat over medium heat for 20-30 minutes, or until it is easily shredded with a fork. Once the meat is ready, remove it from the water and let it cool slightly. Then, cut it into cubes or strips.

Step 5: Prepare the vegetables
In a skillet, heat the oil and add the finely chopped onion and grated carrot. Sauté the vegetables over medium heat until they become translucent, then add the tomato paste. Mix well and let it simmer for a few minutes until the flavors meld.

Step 6: Combine the ingredients
Add the vegetable mixture to the pot with the beans and stir well. Then, add the peeled and crushed tomatoes, bay leaf, thyme, and tarragon. Let the soup simmer on low heat for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to blend. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning, adding salt as needed.

Step 7: Finish and serve
When the soup is ready, remove the bay leaf. Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh or green onions, and, if desired, with a slice of fresh bread or polenta.

Variations and serving suggestions
1. A vegetarian version: You can replace the smoked meat with a vegetarian smoked product or smoked spices to maintain the soup's aromatic character.
2. Adding potatoes: You can add cubed potatoes during the boiling of the beans to make the soup even heartier.
3. Serving with drinks: Bean soup pairs perfectly with a dry white wine or a cold blonde beer, which will complement the rich flavors of the dish.

Nutritional benefits
Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. This soup is not only delicious but also nutritious, low in fat, and rich in antioxidants, contributing to a healthy diet.

Frequently asked questions
- How long can the soup be stored? Bean soup can be kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. It can also be frozen, but it is recommended to consume it fresh for the best flavors.
- Can I use canned beans? Yes, but the cooking time will be reduced. Make sure to drain and rinse them well before adding them to the soup.

Bean soup with smoked meat is not just a dish; it’s a culinary experience that brings family and friends together. Whether you enjoy it at a festive meal or simply on an ordinary day, this recipe will surely become a favorite for everyone. Bon appétit!