Beans with ham hock and roasted peppers
Beans with Smoked Ham Hock and Roasted Peppers – A Traditional Recipe Full of Flavor
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 6
Beans with smoked ham hock and roasted peppers is a recipe that evokes pleasant memories and moments of conviviality, often found on festive tables or during cool autumn and winter days. This dish is a perfect combination of the fine texture of the beans, the unmistakable aroma of smoked ham, and the sweetness of roasted peppers, providing you with a warm and comforting meal. I invite you to discover step by step how to recreate this delight!
Necessary ingredients
- 1 kg white beans (preferably "Pârscov beans" or "Cernica beans")
- 1 deboned smoked ham hock (approximately 600-800g)
- 3 large carrots
- 2 large onions
- 2 green peppers (or yellow)
- 5 roasted red bell peppers
- 1 tablespoon homemade tomato paste
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh green lovage, for garnish
Preparing the beans
1. Bean preparation: Start by sorting the beans. Remove any impurities or damaged beans. Once cleaned, rinse the beans well under cold running water. This will help remove any additional impurities.
2. Soaking the beans: Place the beans in a large pot, cover with cold water, and let them soak on the balcony or at room temperature, preferably overnight. This step is essential, as it helps the beans absorb water and cook more evenly.
Cooking the beans
3. Boiling the beans: The next day, drain the beans and rinse them again. Place them in a large pot, add cold water and a teaspoon of salt. Let them boil over medium heat. It is important to change the water several times until it no longer foams. This will reduce the flatulence effects caused by beans.
Preparing the ham and vegetables
4. Ham and vegetables: Meanwhile, cut the smoked ham into large cubes. In a deep skillet, add a little oil and sauté the ham over medium heat until lightly browned. Add the finely chopped onion, sliced carrots, and diced green peppers. Sauté everything together for about 10-15 minutes, until the vegetables become soft and fragrant.
Combining the ingredients
5. Combine the ingredients: Once the beans are boiled, add the ham and vegetable mixture to the pot with the beans. Add the homemade tomato paste and mix everything well. Let it simmer together on low heat for about 30 minutes.
6. Adding roasted peppers: 15 minutes before finishing cooking, add the roasted red bell peppers, cut into strips, and the chopped lovage. These ingredients will add a touch of freshness and flavor to the dish.
Serving
7. Final dish: After cooking is complete, check the taste and adjust the salt if necessary. Beans with smoked ham hock and roasted peppers are served hot, alongside assorted pickles or uncrushed garlic, for an extra flavor boost.
Tips and tricks
- Types of beans: If you want a quicker version, you can use canned beans, but the taste will be different. Dried beans have a deeper flavor and better texture.
- Ham: If desired, you can replace the smoked ham with fresh pork, but you'll need to add more spices to compensate for the lack of smoky flavor.
- Variations: You can also add other vegetables, such as celery or potatoes, to diversify the dish.
- Suitable drinks: This dish pairs wonderfully with a dry white wine or craft beer, which complements the rich flavors of the meal.
Nutritional benefits
Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, B vitamins, and minerals such as iron and magnesium. They contribute to cardiovascular health and help maintain healthy digestion. The smoked ham adds protein and a distinctive flavor, but remember to consume in moderation due to its salt content.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use canned beans?
Yes, but make sure to rinse them well before adding them to the dish to remove excess salt.
2. How can I make the recipe spicier?
You can add fresh chili peppers or chili flakes to the vegetable mixture for an extra kick.
3. What side dishes pair well?
This dish pairs perfectly with assorted pickles or a fresh summer salad.
Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to get cooking! This recipe for beans with smoked ham hock and roasted peppers will not only fill the table but also bring joy to the hearts of your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: 1 kg white beans, a deboned smoked ham hock, 3 large carrots, 2 onions, 2 green or yellow peppers, 5 roasted red bell peppers, a tablespoon of homemade tomato paste, salt, fresh lovage.
