Beans with smoked meat

Bean stew with smoked meat – a delicious and comforting recipe

In a world full of elaborate and sophisticated recipes, sometimes the simplest dishes bring us the greatest satisfaction. Bean stew with smoked meat is a perfect example of traditional food, full of flavor and aromas, that revives cherished memories and joy in every bite. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it an ideal choice for family meals as well as special occasions.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 15 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

- 500 g of beans (preferably white or yellow)
- 1 large carrot
- 1 medium celery
- 1 medium potato
- 1 medium onion
- 1 large onion
- 700 g of bacon (or pork belly, depending on preference)
- 400 ml of tomato juice
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- Salt, to taste
- Delikat (optional)
- Hot paprika, to taste
- Sunflower or olive oil, for sautéing

Preparing the beans:

1. We start by preparing the beans: It is essential to soak the beans overnight in cold water. This will not only reduce the cooking time but will also help the beans become more digestible. The next day, we drain and rinse the beans well. This step is important to remove any impurities and prevent a bitter taste.

2. Boiling the beans: In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the beans. Change the water 3 times to ensure we eliminate substances that can cause gastric discomfort. In the last water, add the chopped vegetables: carrot, potato, celery, and the small onion. These will provide extra flavor and nutrients to our dish.

Preparing the sauce:

3. Sautéing the large onion: In a separate pot, add a little oil and sauté the chopped large onion until it becomes translucent. This step is essential for developing flavors. Once the onion has softened, add the hot paprika, which will give the dish a spicy taste and vibrant color.

4. Adding the smoked meat: Next, we add the pieces of bacon to the pot with the onion. We let them fry a little so they release their aroma and become crispy.

Combining the ingredients:

5. Beans and sauce: Once the beans are boiled and the vegetables are soft, we add the drained beans to the pot with the onion and bacon. We add enough water to cover the ingredients, then let it simmer on low heat for about 15 minutes. This step allows the flavors to blend.

6. Finalizing the dish: At the end, we add the tomato juice and adjust the taste with salt and Delikat if desired. We let it simmer for another 10 minutes, then add the finely chopped fresh dill. This will add a fresh and vibrant note to our dish.

Serving:

The bean stew is served hot, accompanied by a crispy homemade bread or intermediate bread, which is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce. A side of pickled cauliflower will pleasantly contrast with the rich taste of the dish.

Practical tips:

- Choosing the beans: Opt for quality beans, preferably organic, which will bring better taste and more nutritional benefits.
- Vegetarian option: If you want a vegetarian version, you can skip the smoked meat and add more vegetables, such as zucchini or bell pepper.
- Storing the dish: The bean stew keeps very well in the fridge, and the flavor intensifies after a day in the fridge.
- Drink pairings: A craft beer or a dry red wine pairs perfectly with this dish.

Nutritional benefits:

Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and B vitamins, benefiting digestion and cardiovascular health. Bacon, on the other hand, is a source of healthy fats, but should be consumed in moderation.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use canned beans?: Yes, but make sure to drain and rinse them well before adding them to the recipe. Cooking time will be considerably reduced.
- What vegetables can I add?: Experiment with seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini or carrot, to vary the taste and texture of the dish.
- How can I make the dish spicy?: Add fresh or dried chili peppers during cooking for an extra kick.

Bean stew with smoked meat is more than just a dish; it is a story of taste and tradition, combining comfort with health. Try this recipe and make it a family favorite! Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 500 g beans, 1 large carrot, suitable celery, 1 suitable potato, 1 medium onion, 1 large onion, 700 g pork ribs, tomato juice, marjoram, salt, hot paprika