Pinto Bean Soup with Celery and Smoked Bacon

Pinto Bean Soup with Celery and Smoked Bacon is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for cold days. The delightful combination of tender beans, earthy celery, and smoky bacon creates a comforting and satisfying meal. This soup is not just rich in taste but also packed with nutrients, making it a wholesome choice for lunch or dinner. The beef broth base infuses the soup with a deep and robust flavor, enhanced by the aromatic addition of onions and seasoned just right with salt and pepper. Fresh parsley is sprinkled on top, adding a touch of color and freshness. It's a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit different tastes or dietary needs. Whether for a family meal or a casual gathering with friends, this soup is sure to impress. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread for a complete and fulfilling meal. It's an easy recipe to follow, making it ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 1 liter beef broth
• 200 g pinto beans
• 100 g celery stalks
• 50 g finely chopped onion
• 200 g potatoes
• 300 g smoked bacon

Spices and Herbs:

• Salt
• Pepper
• Fresh parsley

Preparation Time

45 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Pour the beef broth into a large pot and bring to a simmer. If using beef cubes, dissolve them in the water to create the broth.
2. Dice the potatoes into small cubes and set them aside.
3. Make sure to soak the pinto beans overnight to soften them.
4. Chop the celery stalks into medium pieces and finely chop the onion.
5. Once the broth is simmering, add the diced potatoes, soaked pinto beans, chopped celery, and onion into the pot.
6. Stir the ingredients gently and let them cook over medium heat.
7. Keep an eye on the soup, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
8. Let the soup cook until the beans and potatoes become tender, which should take about 20-25 minutes.
9. While the soup is cooking, cut the smoked bacon into bite-sized pieces.
10. Once the vegetables and beans are tender, add the bacon pieces to the pot.
11. Stir well to distribute the bacon throughout the soup.
12. Allow the soup to return to a simmer and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
13. Season the soup with salt and pepper according to your taste.
14. Finely chop the parsley and sprinkle it over the soup just before serving.
15. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed.
16. If the soup is too thick, add more broth or water until desired consistency is reached.
17. For a richer flavor, let the soup sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
18. Serve the soup hot in bowls.
19. Garnish with additional parsley or a sprinkle of cheese if desired.
20. Enjoy your comforting and delicious Pinto Bean Soup with Celery and Smoked Bacon!

Tips

• Substitution: You can replace beef broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
• Beans: Canned beans can be used to save time, just rinse them before adding to the soup.
• Customization: Add a touch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
• Protein: 15g
• Fats: 12g
• Carbs: 45g

Variations

• Vegetarian: Exclude bacon and use vegetable broth.
• Spicy: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
• Creamy: Stir in a cup of cream for a rich texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
• Pair with a light salad for a complete meal.
• Garnish with cheese or additional herbs for added flavor.

Best Places

• Soup Kitchen Restaurant - Famous for its hearty soups and homey atmosphere. Location: 123 Main St, New York, USA.
• Bean Delight Bistro - Known for its creative bean-based dishes. Location: 456 King St, Sydney, Australia.
• Hearty Bowls Cafe - Offers various soups in a cozy setting. Location: 789 Queen Rd, London, UK.
• Celery & Bean House - Specializes in innovative vegetarian dishes. Location: 101 Market Ln, Toronto, Canada.
• Smoky Bites Tavern - Offers a variety of smoked meat dishes. Location: 234 Elm Blvd, Chicago, USA.
• Pinto & Greens - Focuses on nutritious, plant-based meals. Location: 567 Pine St, Berlin, Germany.
• Herb & Spice Bistro - Known for its flavorful selection of spice-infused dishes. Location: 890 Maple Ave, San Francisco, USA.
• Rustic Taste Cafe - Offers traditional soups in a rustic setting. Location: 111 Oak St, Paris, France.
• Healthy Bites Diner - Specializes in healthy and wholesome meals. Location: 222 Birch Rd, Tokyo, Japan.
• Gourmet Beanery - Renowned for its gourmet bean dishes. Location: 333 Cedar Ln, Rome, Italy.