Simple Bean Soup

This simple bean soup is a delicious and hearty dish that combines a variety of fresh vegetables and succulent pork ribs. It's a perfect meal for those seeking comfort and warmth, with the beans providing protein and the vegetables offering a rainbow of nutrients. The soup is easy to make, requiring basic ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. You can customize the level of spices to suit your taste, making it either mild or with a bit more kick. The combination of carrots, potatoes, and zucchini provides a balance of flavors and textures. The soup's rustic nature allows for flexibility in preparation, ensuring a big batch can feed a family or be served as a starter at a dinner party. It's an ideal dish for chilly days, offering nourishment and satisfaction. The dish can be paired with crusty bread for a complete meal or served simply as a light lunch. Enjoy the comforting and flavorful essence of this soup, whether you're a seasoned chef or a home cook finding joy in creating meals from scratch.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 270 g carrots
• 300 g potatoes
• 100 g paprika
• 340 g pork ribs
• 140 g beans (speckled)
• 120 g zucchini
• 3 large tomatoes
• 20 g groats
• 1 garlic clove
• 1 onion

Spices

• 1 teaspoon salt
• 10 crushed black peppercorns
• 3 g Vegeta (optional)

Preparation Time

Total Time: 80 minutes

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Begin by filling a large pot with water and bring it to a boil over medium heat.
2. Meanwhile, finely chop the onion and garlic, then add them to the boiling water.
3. Introduce the pork ribs into the pot, allowing their flavors to integrate with the base.
4. After 10 minutes, add the beans and carrots, ensuring the carrots are chopped into small pieces for even cooking.
5. Allow the mixture to simmer for 20 minutes, ensuring the beans start to soften.
6. Introduce the groats to the pot, allowing them to cook for an additional 10 minutes.
7. Meanwhile, dice the potatoes, tomatoes, paprika, and zucchini.
8. Add these vegetables to the soup, stirring gently to combine.
9. Continue cooking for another 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
10. Adjust seasoning as needed. Add the salt, crushed black pepper, and optional Vegeta, giving the soup a thorough stir.
11. Taste the soup to ensure it has enough seasoning and flavor balance.
12. The pork ribs should be tender, and the beans fully cooked by now. If not, cook for a few more minutes.
13. Once done, remove the soup from heat and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
14. Serve hot, garnishing with fresh herbs if desired.
15. Pair with a slice of crusty bread to complement the robust flavors.
16. Enjoy your delicious and nutritious homemade bean soup!

Tips

• Substitutions: If pork ribs aren't available, you can use chicken or beef as an alternative. For a vegetarian version, skip the meat altogether and add more beans or tofu.
• Beans: Make sure to soak the beans overnight if you're using dried ones to reduce cooking time.
• Enhancements: A splash of lemon juice before serving can add a refreshing twist.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 304 kcal per 400 g serving
• Protein: Rich in protein due to beans and pork ribs
• Fats: Contains healthy fats from the pork
• Carbs: High in carbohydrates due to potatoes and groats

Variations

• Vegan Option: Replace pork with soy chunks or additional vegetables.
• Spicy Version: Add a chopped chili or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with crusty whole-grain bread for a wholesome meal.
• Pair with a light side salad for additional nutrients.

Best Places

1. The Soup Spoon Cafe - Known for cozy ambiance and hearty soups. Location: 7 Nassim Rd, Singapore.
2. Brodo NYC - Offers a variety of broths and soups. Location: 200 W 44th St, New York, USA.
3. Zuppa Cafe - Specializes in Mediterranean-style soups. Location: 15 Ave des Gobelins, Paris, France.
4. Deliciously Ella’s Deli - Famous for healthy, fresh soups. Location: 21 Seymour Pl, London, UK.
5. Soupman - Offers classic and modern soup recipes. Location: 259-A Fulham Rd, London, UK.
6. Luke’s Lobster - Known for seafood soups and chowders. Location: 93 E 7th St, New York, USA.
7. Tuscany Soup House - Offers traditional Italian soups. Location: Via dei Servi, 59, Florence, Italy.
8. Cafe Soupe - Known for creative, seasonal soups. Location: 89 Rue Rampe, Nice, France.
9. Haidilao - Famous for its hotpot and brothy soups. Location: 5 Jl. Dr. Sutomo, Jakarta, Indonesia.
10. Soup Kitchen - Known for hearty, filling soups. Location: George St, Sydney, Australia.