Bean and Smoked Bacon Stew

This comforting dish is a hearty and flavorful stew featuring a delightful combination of beans, smoked bacon, and vegetables. Perfect for a cozy evening meal, it's filled with a savory aroma that fills the kitchen as it cooks. This recipe relies on simple yet impactful ingredients that meld together to create a rich and satisfying bite. The beans provide a creamy texture, while the smoked bacon adds a touch of smokiness and depth. With a hint of spices, this stew achieves a perfect balance of flavors. Ideal for families or gatherings, it can be served with crusty bread or cornbread for a complete meal. Whether you're an experienced cook or a beginner, this recipe offers an enjoyable cooking experience. Additionally, its versatility allows for substitutions to suit varied tastes or dietary needs. This stew is sure to become a favorite dish for everyone around your table.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 200 g dried red beans
• 200 g dried white beans
• 100 g smoked bacon
• 750 ml meat broth
• 1 large onion
• 2 cloves garlic
• 3 carrots
• 1 can canned tomatoes (net weight 400 g)
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Spices

• 1 tsp sweet paprika powder
• A pinch of cayenne pepper
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt
• Pepper

Sauces

• Juice of 1/2 lime or lemon

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 115 minutes (including prep and cook time)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Soak the beans: Begin by soaking the red and white beans overnight in plenty of water. The next day, drain the beans, place them in a pot, and add water just enough to cover the beans. Cover the pot and cook for about 45 minutes until tender.
2. Prepare the bacon: Cut off the rind of the smoked bacon and chop the bacon into small cubes.
3. Chop the vegetables: Finely chop the onion and garlic. Slice the carrots into rounds.
4. Cook the bacon: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the bacon cubes and sauté until they are crispy and golden.
5. Sauté the vegetables: Add the chopped onions and garlic to the pot. Sauté until they turn translucent, stirring occasionally. Then, add the sliced carrots and sauté briefly.
6. Add tomatoes: Pour in the canned tomatoes with their juice, using a fork to gently mash the tomatoes. Stir everything together to combine.
7. Season the stew: Add salt, pepper, sweet paprika powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat. Toss in the bay leaves for added flavor.
8. Simmer the mixture: Let the mixture simmer for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to marry.
9. Incorporate the beans: Add the cooked beans (without their cooking water) to the pot. Pour in the meat broth and let the stew cook on low heat for another 15 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld.
10. Finish with citrus: Taste and adjust seasoning. Add the lime or lemon juice to your liking for a fresh note.
11. Serve: Delight in the stew with a side of cornbread or flatbread. Enjoy!

Tips

• Bean Soaking: Ensure you soak beans overnight to reduce cooking time and enhance digestibility.
• Substitutions: Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version and substitute bacon with mushrooms or tofu for added texture.
• Spice Balance: Adjust the cayenne and paprika to suit your heat preference.

Nutritions

• Calories: 400 kcal per serving
• Protein: 20 g
• Fats: 15 g
• Carbohydrates: 50 g

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth and replace bacon with hearty vegetables or plant-based alternatives.
• Spice Variations: Incorporate chili powder or smoked paprika for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with cornbread or crusty bread for a balanced meal.
• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to enhance the dish.

Best Places

• Le Bernardin - Renowned for its seafood dishes with a refined touch. Location: 155 W 51st St, New York, USA.
• Osteria Francescana - An Italian restaurant offering innovative creations. Location: Via Stella, 22, Modena, Italy.
• Noma - Known for its inventive Scandinavian menu. Location: Refshalevej 96, Copenhagen, Denmark.
• The French Laundry - A fine-dining restaurant with exquisite American cuisine. Location: 6640 Washington St, Yountville, USA.
• El Celler de Can Roca - Celebrated for its modern Spanish fare. Location: Can Sunyer, 48, Girona, Spain.
• Gaggan - Delighting with progressive Indian dishes. Location: 68/1 Soi Langsuan, Bangkok, Thailand.
• Mugaritz - A bastion of avant-garde Basque cooking. Location: Aldura Aldea, 20, Errenteria, Spain.
• Central - Showcasing the diversity of Peruvian ingredients. Location: Calle Santa Isabel 376, Lima, Peru.
• Tickets - A vibrant take on Spanish tapas and creativity. Location: Av. Paral·lel, 164, Barcelona, Spain.
• Alinea - Famous for its cutting-edge approach to modern dining. Location: 1723 N Halsted St, Chicago, USA.