Bean soup with smoked meat
Smoked Ham Bean Soup: a classic recipe full of flavor and tradition
Smoked ham bean soup is a soul-warming dish that brings together the rich and comforting flavors of simple ingredients. This soup is a perfect example of family food, cherished by generations, with an intense taste and a hearty texture that can bring a smile to anyone's face. Although it can be enjoyed in any season, it is an excellent choice for chilly days or for those moments when we want to indulge in a hearty dish.
Total preparation time: 2 hours
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 1 smoked ham (approximately 400 g)
- 300 g dry beans
- 200 ml bell pepper paste
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Thyme, to taste
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 large onion
- 2 carrots
- A little oil (for sautéing the onion)
- A handful of fresh or frozen lovage
Before you start, here are some tips about the ingredients:
Dry Beans: Choose quality beans, preferably from an organic source. The dish will taste better if the beans are fresh. Also, don’t forget to soak them, as this step is crucial for achieving a more digestible soup.
Smoked Ham: It is essential to use quality ham that will provide a rich flavor to the soup. The smoke adds an extra layer of aroma and a deep taste that will transform the dish into a true delicacy.
Carrots: They not only enhance the taste of the soup but also provide a vibrant color, making the dish more appetizing.
Lovage: An ingredient that should not be omitted, lovage adds a fresh aroma and a hint of bitterness that perfectly complements the soup.
Step-by-step preparation:
1. Preparing the beans: Start by soaking the beans in cold water, enough to cover them completely, from evening until morning. This step will reduce the cooking time and make the beans easier to digest.
2. Boiling the beans: After soaking, discard the water and rinse the beans under cold running water. In a large pot, add about 1.5 liters of clean water and bring the beans to a boil. Once the water starts boiling, let it boil for 20 minutes. It is important to change the water, so prepare another pot with water to boil to replace the water you will discard.
3. Adding the vegetables: Change the water twice, and in the third water, add half of the finely chopped onion and the two diced carrots. Cover the pot, but not completely, to allow steam to escape. Let it boil for 20 minutes.
4. Preparing the ham: While the beans and vegetables are boiling, cut the smoked ham into suitable pieces. When the 20 minutes have passed, add the ham over the vegetables and stir.
5. Adding the pastes: After adding the ham, it’s time to add the bell pepper paste and the tomato paste. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme, then let it boil for another 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Sautéing the onion: In a pan, heat a little oil and add the remaining chopped onion. Sauté the onion until it becomes translucent, then add it to the soup. This step will intensify the soup's aroma and provide a more complex flavor.
7. Finalizing the dish: Check if the beans are cooked. If they are soft, turn off the heat and add the chopped fresh or frozen lovage. Mix well and let the soup cool slightly before serving.
8. Serving: Smoked ham bean soup is delicious when served hot, alongside crushed or quartered red onion. You can also add a slice of fresh bread or polenta to complete the meal.
Final notes and variations:
This soup can be customized according to your preferences. You can add other vegetables, such as celery or bell peppers, to give it an even richer taste. Additionally, if you prefer a vegetarian version, you can replace the smoked ham with smoked tofu or a mix of mushrooms.
Smoked ham bean soup pairs perfectly with a dry red wine or freshly squeezed tomato juice to complement the rich flavors of the dish.
Nutritional benefits:
Dry beans are an excellent source of plant protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, being beneficial for digestion and heart health. The smoked ham, on the other hand, adds protein and a rich flavor, but it is important to consume it in moderation due to its salt and fat content.
Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use canned beans?: While it is possible, dried beans offer a better texture and flavor. If using canned beans, reduce the cooking time.
2. How can I store the soup?: The soup can be kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. It can be frozen for longer preservation, but the texture of the beans may be affected.
3. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?: No, as it includes smoked ham, but you can adapt the recipe with plant-based ingredients.
I hope this smoked ham bean soup recipe becomes a favorite in your family, just as it is in mine! Prepare it with love, add a dash of affection, and enjoy every spoonful full of tradition and good taste!
Ingredients: a smoked brisket (approximately 400 g); 300 g of beans; 200 ml of bell pepper paste; 2 tablespoons of tomato paste/broth; salt; pepper; thyme; 2 bay leaves; one large onion; 2 carrots; a little oil (for frying the onion); a handful of fresh or frozen lovage.
