Transylvanian bean soup

Transylvanian Bean Soup: A Comforting Delight

Transylvanian bean soup is not just a delicious recipe, but also a symbol of culinary tradition, bringing together rich flavors and simple ingredients. This dish, known for its comforting taste, is perfect for cool days. In this recipe, I will guide you step by step in making a bean soup with smoked ham hock, enriched with sour cream for an unparalleled flavor.

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

Necessary ingredients
- 500 g small white beans
- 2 carrots
- 2 potatoes
- 1 white onion
- 1 red onion
- 1 parsnip
- 1 smoked ham hock
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 chicken Maggi cube
- Maggi borscht with sour cream (or other preferred borscht)
- 1 sprig of fresh lovage
- 1 sprig of fresh tarragon
- Olive oil
- White pepper, sweet paprika, vegeta
- Vinegar
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley

Step 1: Preparing the beans
Start by soaking the beans overnight in cold water. This will help speed up the cooking process and make the beans easier to digest. The next day, drain the beans and put them to boil in warm water. It is important to use warm water, as cold water can cause the beans to harden and cook slowly. Change the water 2-3 times during cooking to remove any impurities and improve the flavor.

Step 2: Cooking the ham hock and vegetables
Once the beans start to boil, add the smoked ham hock and let it boil together with the beans to infuse its flavors. Peel and slice the carrots thinly, and dice the potatoes. Add them to the pot along with the finely chopped white onion. These vegetables will add sweetness and texture to the soup.

Step 3: Flavoring the soup
In a pan, add a little olive oil and sauté the finely chopped red onion until it becomes translucent. Add the sautéed onion to the pot with the soup and mix well. Now it’s time to add the spices: the Maggi cube, vegeta, white pepper, sweet paprika, and lovage. Let the soup simmer on low heat, covered, until the beans and vegetables are tender.

Step 4: Finishing the soup
When the ham hock is cooked and the meat easily separates from the bone, remove it from the pot and let it cool slightly. Cut it into cubes and add it back to the soup. In a separate bowl, mix two tablespoons of flour with two tablespoons of sour cream and a few tablespoons of soup broth to eliminate lumps. Then, pour the mixture into the soup, along with the sliced parsnip. Let it boil for another 5 minutes.

Step 5: Serving the soup
When the soup is ready, you can season it with chopped parsley and fresh tarragon, adding vinegar and borscht to taste for an extra tang. Serve the soup hot, alongside a salad of red onions, which will perfectly complement the rich flavors.

Useful tips
- If you want a vegan version, you can replace the smoked ham hock with a plant-based smoked product or mushrooms to maintain the flavor.
- Bean soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of freshly baked homemade bread.
- You can also add other vegetables, such as celery or bell peppers, to experiment with flavors.
- This recipe is perfect for freezing - you can make a larger quantity and save it for days when you don’t have time to cook.

Nutritional benefits
Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and antioxidants. They contribute to maintaining digestive health and help control blood sugar levels. The smoked ham hock adds a dose of protein and rich flavor, but make sure to choose a quality option.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use canned beans?
A: We recommend dried beans for a more authentic taste, but you can use canned beans to save time. Just make sure to rinse them well before use.
2. How can I make the soup spicier?
A: Add a little chili pepper or a few drops of hot sauce, depending on your preferences.

Transylvanian bean soup is more than just a dish; it is a family story, a tradition, and a way to bring people together around the table. Try it and let yourself be carried away by its warm and comforting flavors!