Bean stew with smoked meat

Bean stew with smoked meat - A classic recipe, full of flavor and nostalgia

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

The history of this bean stew with smoked meat recipe is deeply rooted in culinary traditions, with roots that stretch across the centuries. This dish is associated with family meals, bringing people together around a rich and warm table. Its inviting aromas and rich texture make bean stew a beloved dish, especially on cold winter days.

Ingredients:

- 500 g red beans
- 300 g smoked pork (shoulder or ribs are ideal)
- 2 white onions
- 1 carrot
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red for a splash of color)
- 1-2 tablespoons of vegeta (or spices to taste)
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 3 bay leaves
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley leaves
- 400 g tomato paste
- Sunflower oil (or another vegetable oil) – 3-4 tablespoons
- 1-2 tablespoons of white flour (for thickening)
- Water (as needed)

Preparation:

1. Start with the beans: The night before preparing the stew, soak the beans in cold water. This step is essential as it helps reduce cooking time and improves the texture of the beans. The next day, drain the beans and rinse them well to remove any impurities.

2. Boiling the beans: In a large pot, add the drained beans and fill with cold water just enough to cover them. Add the smoked meat cut into larger pieces. Boil everything over medium heat. After a few boils, discard the first water to reduce any gases. Bring to a boil again, covering with fresh water. Let it simmer until the beans are soft, about 1-1.5 hours. Test the beans; they should be tender but not disintegrate.

3. Preparing the vegetables: In a deep pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes transparent. Then, add the grated carrot and diced bell pepper. Sauté everything together for 5-7 minutes, stirring periodically to avoid sticking.

4. Adding the meat: Once the vegetables are cooked, add the boiled smoked meat (from the bean pot) to the pot. Sauté everything for a few minutes so the flavors can combine.

5. Creating the base for the stew: Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients. Let it simmer over low heat for about 15 minutes. Then, add the boiled beans (without water) to the pot. Gently stir to avoid crushing the beans.

6. Thickening the stew: Prepare a thickening mixture of white flour and water (1-2 tablespoons of flour mixed with cold water). Add this mixture to the pot while continuously stirring to avoid lumps. Continue to simmer for 5 minutes.

7. Seasoning: Add vegeta, ground pepper, tomato paste, and bay leaves. Let all the ingredients simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes so that the flavors develop and blend harmoniously.

8. Finalizing the dish: Finally, add fresh thyme and chopped parsley leaves. Let it come to a final boil, and the stew is ready to serve.

Serving:

Bean stew with smoked meat is usually served alongside pickles or a seasonal salad. I opted for pickled cucumbers and beetroot, and the combination is simply delicious! Additionally, freshly baked homemade bread will perfectly complement this dish.

Useful tips:

- Beans: If you want to save time, you can use canned beans, but the taste will be different. Dried beans have a more intense flavor.
- Meat: You can experiment with different types of smoked meat, such as smoked sausages or even ham for a different taste.
- Vegetables: Add other vegetables to your liking, such as zucchini or potatoes to vary the texture and flavor.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use white or yellow beans? Yes, the recipe can be adapted, but the cooking time may vary.
2. How can I reduce cooking time? Boil the beans in a pressure cooker to significantly reduce cooking time.
3. Is this a vegetarian recipe? You can make a vegetarian version by eliminating the meat and adding extra vegetables and spices.
4. How can I store the stew? It can be stored in the refrigerator in airtight containers for up to 3 days, and the taste will be even better the next day.

Nutritional benefits:

Bean stew is an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Beans are known for their benefits to digestion and heart health, making them a healthy choice for a balanced diet.

In conclusion, preparing bean stew with smoked meat is a simple and satisfying process that combines accessible ingredients with traditional cooking techniques. With every bite, you will feel the warmth and love that has been invested in this dish, transforming an ordinary meal into a true feast of flavor!

 Ingredients: 500 g red kidney beans, smoked pork meat, 2 white onions, 1 carrot, 1 bell pepper, vegeta, pepper, thyme, 3 bay leaves, parsley leaves, tomato paste, oil, white flour

 Tags:  stew bean vegetables