Bean soup

Bean borscht with smoked meat and rosemary: A recipe full of flavor

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Welcome to my pantry full of aromas! Today we will indulge in a delicious recipe for bean borscht, a comforting dish that takes us back to warm autumn days. Even if beans are not your favorite, I encourage you to try it, as with the right ingredients and technique, it will become a true delicacy. This recipe surprises with the addition of rosemary, an ingredient that will transform the borscht into a unique culinary experience.

The history of bean borscht

Over time, borscht has been a staple food in many cultures, often associated with traditions and celebrations. Beans, an accessible and nutritious ingredient, have been used in making borscht since ancient times. This recipe for bean borscht with smoked meat and rosemary brings a fresh twist to a classic recipe, combining simple ingredients with sophisticated flavors.

Necessary ingredients

- 300 g colored beans (preferably choose those that are easily found in stores: white, red, or a mix)
- 2 carrots
- 1 onion
- 1 small piece of leek
- 1 slice of parsnip
- 1 piece of parsley
- 2 potatoes
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil or sunflower oil
- 300 ml broth (preferably homemade for a more authentic taste)
- 2 teaspoons of MAGGI Vegetable Borscht with Wheat Bran
- 250 g smoked meat (pork or turkey, depending on preferences)
- 4 liters of water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground rosemary Kotanyi

Step by step for a perfect borscht

1. Preparing the beans: Start by soaking the beans in cold water for at least 4-6 hours or ideally overnight. This step is essential to reduce cooking time and achieve softer beans. If you're short on time, a quick option is to use canned beans, but the taste will change.

2. Boiling the beans: After the beans have soaked, drain the water and rinse the beans under cold running water. Place the beans in a large pot with one liter of water and add a little salt. Bring the water to a boil and let it simmer, changing the water two or three times to remove any last impurities and achieve a fine texture.

3. Adding the vegetables: Once the beans are cooked, add the finely chopped onion, carrot, leek, parsnip, and parsley, all diced. These vegetables will not only add fantastic flavor but also vibrant color to your borscht.

4. Boiling the smoked meat: In another pot, boil the smoked meat in separate water. This step will allow the flavors to develop without negatively affecting the borscht.

5. The final combination: When the beans and vegetables are almost cooked, add the smoked meat cut into pieces, the broth, and MAGGI Borscht. Add the ground rosemary, which will add a subtle and sophisticated aroma. Let it simmer on low heat for 15 minutes.

6. Seasoning: Taste the borscht and adjust the salt if necessary. It is important not to overdo the salt, as the smoked meat may already add a salty taste.

7. Serving: The borscht is served hot, accompanied by finely chopped red onion seasoned with salt, pepper, vinegar, and a drizzle of olive oil. This combination will add a delicious contrast between the rich flavors of the borscht and the freshness of the onion.

Practical tips

- Ingredient variations: You can experiment with different types of beans, such as black beans or mung beans, to add a touch of originality. You can also replace the smoked meat with a vegetarian option, such as smoked tofu or mushrooms, for a lighter choice.

- An unusual flavor: Adding rosemary is a trick I recently discovered, and it completely transformed the borscht, bringing a hint of freshness. I doubt you will return to traditional recipes after trying this!

- Suitable drinks: Bean borscht pairs perfectly with plum brandy or a dry white wine, which will complement the rich flavors of the dish. If you prefer something non-alcoholic, freshly squeezed lemonade would be an excellent choice.

Nutritional benefits

Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, making them ideal for a healthy diet. They are rich in B vitamins, iron, and antioxidants, thus contributing to maintaining cardiovascular health and supporting healthy digestion.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use canned beans?
Yes, but make sure to rinse them well to remove excess sodium.

2. Is bean borscht good for a diet?
Absolutely! It is nutritious, filling, and low in calories, making it ideal for a light meal.

3. How can I store leftovers?
Borscht keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days and can be frozen for later use.

4. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Sure! Replace the smoked meat with smoked tofu or mushrooms and use vegetable broth.

I encourage you to try this recipe for bean borscht with smoked meat and rosemary, which will surely bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. I look forward to your impressions and suggestions for improvement! Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 2 carrots, 1 onion, 1 small piece of leek, 1 slice of parsnip, 1 bunch of parsley, 2 potatoes, 2 tablespoons of oil, 300 g of mixed beans, 300 ml of broth, 2 teaspoons of MAGGI Vegetable and Wheat Bran Borscht, 250 g of smoked meat, 4 liters of water, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of ground rosemary Kotanyi.

 Tags:  bean soup bors beans vegetable borscht borscht soups maggi smoked flavor broth