Bean soup with meat

Bean Soup with Meat – A Heartfelt Recipe

Bean soup with meat is one of those dishes that evokes pleasant memories and moments spent with loved ones. It is a traditional recipe, deeply rooted in our cuisine, that combines the simple flavors of basic ingredients with the richness of meat. This soup is not just a nourishing meal, but also a symbol of hospitality and good taste.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 1 bowl of dried beans (approximately 300g)
- 2 medium carrots
- 2 large onions
- 400g meat (smoked ribs, beef or pork, bones, or sausages)
- 4 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 3-4 tablespoons of oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh or dried lovage, finely chopped
- Pickles for serving

Before you begin, it’s important to ensure that you have all the ingredients prepared. The dried beans should be soaked in warm water the night before. This step is essential to reduce cooking time and achieve tender, flavorful beans.

Step 1: Preparing the Beans
The night before, place the beans in a bowl and cover them with warm water. Let them soak overnight. In the morning, drain the beans and put them in a pot with fresh water. Once it comes to a boil, change the water and let it boil again. This step helps eliminate substances that can cause digestive discomfort.

Step 2: Boiling the Meat
If you are using fresh or frozen meat, it is advisable to boil it separately. Add the meat to a pot of water and boil until it is semi-cooked. If you choose smoked ribs, you can add them directly to the pot with the beans.

Step 3: Adding the Vegetables
When the beans are nearly cooked, add one finely chopped onion and one grated carrot. These vegetables will not only enhance the flavor of the soup but also add extra nutrients. Let everything simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Preparing the Sauté
In a skillet, heat the oil and add the other finely chopped onion. Sauté until golden, then add the tomato paste, diluted slightly in water. Let it simmer on low heat for 5 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Combining the Ingredients
Once the beans and meat are well cooked, add the sauté to the pot with the soup. Mix well and let it simmer together for another 10 minutes. Finally, taste and season with salt and pepper to your liking.

Serving:
Bean soup with meat is served hot, sprinkled with freshly chopped lovage. Personally, I enjoy adding pickles on the side, which provide a pleasant contrast to the rich flavor of the soup. It’s perfect for a family meal or to impress guests.

Nutritional Benefits:
Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, rich in fiber, making them ideal for a balanced diet. Additionally, they contain B vitamins, iron, and magnesium. The meat adds extra protein and essential minerals, while the vegetables contribute antioxidants and vitamins.

Calories:
A serving of bean soup with meat contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the type of meat used and the amount of oil added.

Variations:
You can experiment with different types of meat or add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or celery, to give a personalized touch to the recipe. For a more intense flavor, add spices like paprika or thyme.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use canned beans?
Yes, but the cooking time will be significantly reduced. Make sure to rinse them well before use.

2. What other types of meat can I use?
You can use chicken or turkey, as well as smoked pork for a deeper flavor.

3. How can I make the soup spicier?
Add hot peppers or spicy seasonings during preparation to intensify the flavor.

This bean soup with meat is not just a traditional dish, but also a symbol of warmth and hospitality. Once you try it, you’ll want to include it in your menu as often as possible! Enjoy every spoonful and the moments spent with your loved ones!

 Ingredients: a bowl of beans (that's how I measure) 1 carrot 2 large onions meat to taste (ribs, bones, sausages) tomato paste oil salt pepper lovage

 Tags:  soup dried beans meat