Bean cream with smoked pork ham

White Bean Cream with Smoked Pork Ham

If you are looking for a recipe that not only combines culinary tradition with rich flavor but also offers the comfort of a hearty meal, then white bean cream with smoked pork ham is the ideal choice. This recipe is not just a delight but also a story about simple yet flavorful ingredients transformed into a refined and comforting dish. Let's explore this culinary journey together!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients for the bean cream:

- 1 kg dried white beans
- 2 carrots
- 2 parsnips
- 2 parsley roots
- 1 piece of celery
- 2 green onions
- 1 kg smoked pork ham (homemade)
- Salt
- Pepper

Ingredients for the garnish:

- 4 large red onions
- 60 ml oil
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- Pickled hot peppers (optional)
- Pickled green tomatoes (optional)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by cleaning and washing all the vegetables. This is a crucial step as fresh ingredients will contribute to the final aroma of the dish. Cut the carrots, parsnips, parsley roots, and celery into small cubes for even cooking.

2. Preparing the ham:
Wash the smoked pork ham and soak it in cold water for a few hours (ideally overnight). This process helps to remove excess salt and smoke, bringing a more balanced flavor.

3. Boiling the ingredients:
Place the chopped vegetables in a pressure cooker, add the drained ham, and fill with water up to the level of the ingredients. Close the pot and put it on the heat. Meanwhile, in another pot, bring the well-washed beans to a boil, letting them simmer for about 15 minutes. Then, drain the beans and add them to the pressure cooker with the vegetables.

4. Cooking under pressure:
Season with salt and pepper, put the lid on the pressure cooker, and let it boil for 2 hours. This will allow the ingredients to combine and transform into a delicious cream.

5. Preparing the fried onions:
While the cream is boiling, clean and chop the red onions. Heat the oil in a pan and add the onions, frying them until they become golden and soft, but not burnt. A few minutes before removing them from the heat, add the sweet paprika and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor.

6. Transforming into cream:
After the beans and vegetables are cooked, let them cool slightly. Remove the ham and slice it. Using a blender, puree the bean and vegetable mixture, thinning the cream with a little of the cooking liquid until you reach the desired consistency.

7. Serving:
Serve the bean cream in deep bowls, garnished with fried onions, a slice of smoked ham, and pickles – hot peppers or pickled green tomatoes for a contrast of flavors. This combination not only looks good but also perfectly complements the bean cream, bringing a note of freshness and acidity.

Useful tips and tricks for a perfect result:

- Beans: Make sure the beans are well washed. High-quality beans will make a difference in the texture and flavor of the dish.
- Ham: You can replace the pork ham with a vegetarian version or other types of sausages, but the flavor will be different.
- Alternative versions: Try adding other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for a burst of color and nutrients.
- Garnishes: Besides the fried onions, you can also add some fresh parsley leaves for a cooler appearance.

Nutritional benefits:
Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, contributing to digestive health. They are also rich in essential minerals such as iron and magnesium. Smoked ham, while delicious, should be consumed in moderation due to its sodium content.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use canned beans?
Yes, but you should avoid salting and reduce the cooking time.

2. How can I make the cream spicier?
Add a few slices of hot pepper during cooking or use spicy paprika instead of sweet paprika.

3. Can I freeze the bean cream?
Absolutely! Let it cool completely and then pour it into containers for freezing.

Serving suggestions:
This bean cream pairs perfectly with a refreshing craft beer or a dry white wine, which will balance the intense flavors of the dish. Serve it alongside a slice of fresh bread or croutons for a complete meal.

In conclusion, white bean cream with smoked pork ham is not just a recipe, but a culinary experience that combines tradition with flavor. Whether you prepare it for a family dinner or a festive meal, it will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: I invite you to a delicious and very filling meal! I hope you like beans with ham and sautéed red onion! 1kg of dried white beans, 2 carrots, 2 parsnips, 2 parsley roots, 1 celery root, 2 green onions, 1 kg of smoked pork ham (homemade), salt, pepper. Garnish: 4 large red onions, 60ml oil, 1 teaspoon sweet paprika, pickled hot peppers, pickled green tomatoes.