Bean Soup

 Ingredients: a box of smoked pancetta (we can also use smoked ham) onion bell pepper carrot celery tomato juice salt spices (I added thyme, sweet paprika, delikat, and a little pepper) parsley large beans

To prepare a delicious vegetable soup with beans and pancetta, we will start by preparing our ingredients. It is essential to choose fresh, quality vegetables to achieve a perfect taste. We carefully wash the vegetables under a stream of cold water, ensuring that we remove any impurities. Then, we chop the onion, carrots, bell pepper, and celery into small cubes to allow for even and quick cooking.

In a large pot, we add a splash of olive oil, preferably extra virgin, for an extra flavor boost. We heat the oil over medium heat, then add the chopped onion. We sauté the onion for a few minutes until it becomes translucent and releases its aromas. Once the onion has taken on a golden hue, we add the pancetta cut into small cubes. The pancetta will add a special flavor to our dish, so we let everything sauté together, stirring occasionally.

The next step is to add the other chopped vegetables, letting them sauté together with the pancetta and onion for a few minutes. This will help all the flavors blend and intensify. Once the vegetables are lightly sautéed, we add enough water to cover them completely. We let it boil over medium heat until the vegetables are almost cooked but still firm to the touch.

After the vegetables are nearly ready, we add the already cooked beans, along with the liquid they were cooked in. This liquid will enrich the soup with a deep, nutrient-filled flavor. We fill the pot with the remaining bean liquid to achieve a rich consistency. Then, we add the tomato juice, which will provide a fresh taste and vibrant color to our soups. We let everything boil well, stirring occasionally, so the flavors combine and the soup becomes more concentrated.

When the soup is ready, we can taste and adjust the salt and pepper to our liking. We serve the soup hot, garnished with freshly chopped green parsley and onion, which will add a final touch of freshness and flavor. This soup is perfect for a light dinner or as an appetizer in a more elaborate meal, being not only tasty but also nourishing. Enjoy every spoonful of this delicious combination that will warm your soul and bring a smile to your face!

 Tags:  onion greenery carrots tomatoes bean soup pepper gluten-free recipes lactose-free recipes