Tomato and Bean Soup with Smoked Meat

This delicious tomato and bean soup combines savory smoked meat with rich, tangy tomatoes and hearty beans. Its robust flavors make it a comforting dish perfect for a cozy dinner or family gathering. With the addition of potatoes, onions, and a bit of garlic, this soup is both nourishing and satisfying. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the flavors to meld beautifully together, creating a harmonious taste in every spoonful. It's a flexible recipe that can be customized with various herbs and spices to suit your palate. The creamy option of adding sour cream at the end provides a delightful contrast to the robust flavors. Ideal for cold days, this soup is a nourishing meal that brings warmth to any occasion. Whether you're serving it as a main course or alongside crusty bread, this soup is sure to delight. Pair it with fresh greens for a balanced, wholesome meal.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 500 g smoked meat
• 1 large can of tomatoes in their own juice
• 2 cans of canned beans
• 4 potatoes
• 0.75 l tomato juice
• 1 large onion
• 2 cloves of garlic

Spices and Extras:

• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• Greens for garnish
• Sour cream (optional)

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 50 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Begin by cutting the smoked meat into small cubes.
2. Chop the onion finely.
3. Heat a pan over medium heat and sauté the cubed meat with chopped onions until the onions are translucent and the meat is slightly browned.
4. Peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes.
5. Place the potatoes in a pot with just enough water to cover them and bring to a boil.
6. Cook the potatoes until they become tender but not overly soft.
7. Once the potatoes are done, add the sautéed meat and onions to the pot.
8. Drain the beans and add them to the pot.
9. Chop the tomatoes from the can if they are whole, and add them with their juice to the soup.
10. Pour in the tomato juice and stir the mixture well.
11. Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for a few minutes to combine the flavors.
12. Mince the garlic cloves.
13. Add the minced garlic to the pot and stir.
14. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
15. Let the soup simmer for a further 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
16. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
17. For a creamy finish, serve the soup with a dollop of sour cream if desired.
18. Garnish with fresh greens for added flavor and color.
19. Turn off the heat and let it sit for a minute before serving.
20. Enjoy your comforting bowl of soup!

Tips

• For a vegetarian option, skip the smoked meat and use vegetable broth instead.
• Use fresh herbs like dill or parsley for added freshness.
• Add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
• If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the beans before adding them to the pot.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
• Protein: 20g
• Fats: 15g
• Carbs: 40g

Variations

• Add corn for extra sweetness and color.
• Switch out potatoes with sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile.
• Use different beans, such as chickpeas or kidney beans, for variety.
• Incorporate different herbs like rosemary or thyme for a more aromatic dish.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with crusty bread or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Serve with a side salad of mixed greens and vinaigrette.
• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or dill for a burst of flavor.
• Add a sprinkle of cheese if desired for a richer taste.

Best Places

• The Soup Kitchen - A cozy spot offering a wide variety of soul-warming soups. Location: 123 Flavor Street, New York, USA.
• Tomato Fiesta - Specializes in tomato-based dishes that are both savory and delicious. Location: 456 Spice Lane, Barcelona, Spain.
• Bean & Thyme - Known for its hearty, herb-infused bean soups. Location: 789 Hearty Blvd, London, UK.
• Rustic Bowls - Offers wholesome, rustic soups with fresh ingredients. Location: 101 Coziness Ave, Paris, France.
• Savory Sensations - Features an array of flavorful soup creations. Location: 202 Comfort Rd, Tokyo, Japan.
• Warm Spoon - Perfect for discovering diverse soup flavors from around the world. Location: 303 Aroma St, Sydney, Australia.
• The Stew Shack - Delight in robust stews and soups with a homely vibe. Location: 404 Savor Ln, Cape Town, South Africa.
• Soup Symphony - Enjoy a melodic blend of flavors in every bowl. Location: 505 Harmony Ct, Rome, Italy.
• Herb & Broth - Offers healthy and nutritious broths with herbal goodness. Location: 606 Wellness Way, Toronto, Canada.
• Soulful Soups - Experience the comforting essence of soul-enriching soups. Location: 707 Bliss Blvd, Bangkok, Thailand.