SMOKED BEAN SOUP

Smoked bean soup is a traditional recipe, full of flavors and comfort, perfect for cool days or for moments when you want to indulge in a tasty dish. This soup is not just a meal, but a story of simple yet flavorful ingredients that come together to create an unforgettable culinary experience. Additionally, tarragon, an essential ingredient in this recipe, adds a distinct note that gives the soup an unmistakable flavor.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 20 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients:
- 1 kilogram of smoked beans
- 800 g of smoked meat (pork belly or pork belly)
- 4-5 carrots
- 1 white onion
- 2 parsley roots
- 2 tablespoons of bell pepper (frozen)
- 4 cherry tomatoes (frozen)
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons of vinegar
- 1 tablespoon of tarragon

Step 1: Preparing the beans
Wash the smoked beans well under a stream of cold water. Then, place the beans in a large pot with 5 liters of cold water. Bring the water to a boil and let the beans cook for 10 minutes. This first step helps to eliminate substances that can cause gastric discomfort. After boiling for a few minutes, discard the colored water and wash the beans again. Repeat this step to ensure the beans are clean and healthy.

Step 2: Cooking the meat
In another pot, boil the smoked meat (pork belly or pork belly) with enough water to completely cover it. Boil the meat until it becomes tender, about 1 hour. This method adds a deep flavor to the soup and enriches the aroma of the ingredients.

Step 3: Adding the vegetables
When the beans are almost cooked, add the chopped vegetables: onion, carrots, and parsley roots. These will bring extra flavor and color to the soup. Finally, when almost all the ingredients are cooked, add the crushed garlic to intensify the aroma.

Step 4: Combining the ingredients
Once the beans and meat are cooked, combine them in one pot. Adjust the salt to taste and add the 2 tablespoons of vinegar, which will add a note of acidity and balance the dish's flavor. Finally, add the frozen tomatoes and let it boil for a few more minutes to blend the flavors.

Step 5: Finishing the soup
Sprinkle the fresh parsley and finely chopped tarragon over the soup, adding them at the end to preserve their fresh aromas.

Serving
The soup is served hot, in deep plates, with a cherry tomato and a sprig of curly parsley for an attractive look. You can accompany this dish with a slice of homemade bread or polenta, which is always a great choice.

Useful tips:
- Make sure to use quality beans, preferably from organic sources.
- Tarragon can be preserved in vinegar, which will make it even more aromatic; it is important to use it throughout the year.
- If you want a vegetarian version, you can replace the smoked meat with a mixture of mushrooms and smoked spices to achieve a similar taste.

Nutritional information:
Smoked bean soup is an excellent source of plant protein, fiber, and vitamins. It is ideal for a healthy diet, having a low-calorie content, making it a perfect choice for those looking to maintain or lose weight.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use canned beans?
- It is recommended to use dried beans, but you can also use canned beans. In this case, reduce the cooking time and add the beans at the end to avoid a mushy texture.

2. How can I store the soup?
- The soup keeps well in the refrigerator, in an airtight container, for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the soup for later consumption.

3. What other spices can I add?
- You can experiment with spices like sweet or hot paprika, black pepper, or even herbs like thyme or oregano.

Smoked bean soup is not just a dish, but a true culinary tradition, full of flavor and warmth. By preparing it, you will enjoy a delicious dish that will remind you of family meals and special moments spent with loved ones. Savor every bite and enjoy the flavors it offers!