Atra Pupinu Zupa

Atra Pupinu Zupa is a savory soup known for its hearty ingredients and comforting taste. This dish is a perfect blend of beans, vegetables, and flavored meats, making it an ideal meal for chilly days. The soup comes together with a flavorful broth, enriched by slow-cooked ribs and a mix of aromatic spices. Brown beans provide a rich, creamy texture, and carrots add a touch of sweetness. Garlic lends a subtle yet essential flavor, while potatoes make it more filling. The dish is made healthier with the addition of grains, offering a good balance of starchiness and nutrition. Traditionally, this soup is a staple in many households, cherished for its simplicity and depth of flavor. Whether enjoyed as a meal on its own or part of a larger spread, this soup is loved for its versatility and homey charm.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

2 dried ribs
4 medium-sized potatoes
2 large carrots
4 cans of brown Rimi beans
3 cloves of garlic
1 cup of grains

Spices and Extras:

Salt
Bay leaves
Pepper
1 bouillon cube

Preparation Time

Total Time: 40 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the ribs: Cut the dried ribs into smaller pieces, which will enhance their flavor release.
Start the broth: Place the ribs in a pot with grated carrots and chopped garlic, and begin to simmer them in water. This mixture will form the flavorful base of your soup.
Cook the vegetables: As the carrots soften slightly, add the grains, which will absorb the rich broth flavors, and cook them until they are tender.
Incorporate the potatoes: Once the carrots are nearly ready, add the diced potatoes and the canned beans into the pot.
Season the soup: Include salt, pepper, bay leaves, and the bouillon cube for enhanced taste and aroma. Stir the ingredients well.
Simmer to perfection: Continue cooking the mixture until all elements are cooked through and flavors meld together, creating a rich, thick consistency.
Final touches: Once ready, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary for a balanced flavor.
Serve warm: Portion the soup into bowls, ensuring each serving has a bit of everything. It's best enjoyed hot with a side of crusty bread.

Tips

For a smoky taste, try using smoked ribs instead of dried ones.
Substitute white beans if brown beans are not available.
To thicken the soup, add more grains or let it simmer longer.

Nutrition

Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
Protein: 16g
Fats: 8g
Carbohydrates: 50g

Variations

For a vegetarian option, omit the ribs and use vegetable stock.
Add chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Include other veggies like celery or parsnips for more flavor diversity.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Serve with a slice of rye bread or a warm baguette.

Best Places

Riga’s Bean House - Known for its traditional soups and warm atmosphere. Location: 12 Brīvības iela, Riga, Latvia.
The Soup Bar - Offers a wide variety of homemade soups daily. Location: 23 Miera iela, Riga, Latvia.
Cafe de Soupe - A chic spot for enjoying soulful soups and cozy meals. Location: 45 Krišjāņa Valdemāra iela, Riga, Latvia.
Bean & Spoon - Gourmet soups paired with artisan bread. Location: 19 Stabu iela, Riga, Latvia.
Boulangerie & Soup - Famed for its rustic soups and freshly baked goods. Location: 77 Avotu iela, Riga, Latvia.
Soupy - Modern eatery with a focus on sustainable and seasonal ingredients. Location: 28 Alfrēda Kalniņa iela, Riga, Latvia.
Le Bon Soupe - Elegant dining with a menu of authentic Latvian soups. Location: 8 Kalpaka bulvāris, Riga, Latvia.
The Ladle and Leaf - Bright and welcoming, perfect for a warm soup lunch. Location: 94 Tallinas iela, Riga, Latvia.
Bistro Bonjour - Offers delightful soups alongside its French-inspired menu. Location: 52 Ausekļa iela, Riga, Latvia.
Gourmet Soup Kitchen - A trendy spot for soup lovers seeking quality and taste. Location: 81 Dzirciema iela, Riga, Latvia.