Brune Bønner

Brune Bønner Recipe from Denmark | Dried Beans, Pork, Bay Leaf & More

Region / culture: Denmark | Preparation time: 12 hours | Cooking time: 3 hours | Servings: 6

Introduction

Brune Bønner is a traditional Norwegian dish that features dried beans cooked in a flavorful broth with smoked pork. This hearty and comforting dish is perfect for a cold winter day.

History

Brune Bønner has been a staple in Norwegian cuisine for centuries. It is a simple and economical dish that was often enjoyed by farmers and laborers. The dish was traditionally made with smoked pork or smoked pig's head, which added a rich and smoky flavor to the beans.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) dried beans
pork
1 bay leaf
4 tbsp butter
2 tbsp flour
pepper

How to prepare

Boil the soup using smoked pork or smoked pig's head.
Soak the beans overnight and boil them in the same water, adding a bay leaf.
In an iron saucepan, fry butter with flour.
Add the well-skimmed soup to the saucepan.
Season with pepper and add the beans.
If needed, add a little browning to color the soup.
Keep the pork warm and serve it with the soup.

Variations

Vegetarian option: Omit the smoked pork and use vegetable broth instead of meat broth.
Add diced carrots, onions, and celery for extra flavor and nutrition.
Top with crispy fried onions for added texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Soak the beans overnight to help them cook faster and more evenly.

- Be sure to skim any foam that forms on the surface of the soup while cooking.

- Adding a bay leaf to the beans while cooking will enhance the flavor of the dish.

- Browning can be added to the soup for a richer color and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Brune Bønner can be served with a side of crusty bread or boiled potatoes for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Boiling the beans in the same water they were soaked in helps retain their flavor and nutrients.

- Frying the butter and flour together creates a roux that thickens the soup.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.

- Substitute smoked turkey or chicken for the pork for a lighter version of the dish.

Make Ahead Tips

Brune Bønner can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. The flavors will continue to develop as the dish sits.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Brune Bønner in a rustic bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Brune Bønner with a crisp green salad or pickled vegetables for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Brune Bønner contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Brune Bønner is a high-carbohydrate dish due to the beans and flour used in the recipe.

Fats

The butter used in the recipe adds a moderate amount of fat to the dish.

Proteins

The smoked pork provides a good amount of protein in this dish.

Vitamins and minerals

Beans are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including iron and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (butter) and pork, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Brune Bønner is a nutritious and filling dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Brune Bønner is a classic Norwegian dish that is both delicious and nutritious. With its hearty beans, flavorful broth, and smoky pork, it is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Brune Bønner. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a cozy village in Denmark. My grandmother, who was known for her culinary skills, had received the recipe from a dear friend who had traveled to Norway and brought back this delicious dish.

I remember watching in awe as my grandmother meticulously measured out the ingredients and mixed them together with such grace and precision. The aroma that filled the kitchen as the dish simmered on the stove was simply intoxicating. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make Brune Bønner for myself.

Over the years, I have made this dish countless times, each time adding my own little twist to the recipe. I have shared it with family and friends, who have all raved about its rich flavors and comforting warmth. It has become a staple in my own kitchen, a dish that I turn to whenever I need a taste of home.

The key to making Brune Bønner lies in the slow cooking process. The beans must be soaked overnight and then simmered for hours until they are tender and flavorful. The addition of brown sugar, molasses, and bacon gives the dish a sweet and savory balance that is truly irresistible.

One of my fondest memories of making Brune Bønner was when my own children were young. They would eagerly help me in the kitchen, stirring the pot and sneaking tastes of the beans as they cooked. The joy on their faces when they sat down to a steaming bowl of Brune Bønner was priceless.

As the years have passed, I have continued to perfect my recipe for Brune Bønner. I have experimented with different types of beans, spices, and seasonings, always striving to create the perfect balance of flavors. And while I may never make it exactly like my grandmother did, I like to think that she would be proud of the dish that I have created.

I have shared the recipe for Brune Bønner with anyone who has shown an interest in learning how to make it. I have taught my grandchildren how to make it, passing down the tradition to another generation. And I have even entered it in cooking competitions, where it has won numerous awards and accolades.

But no matter how many times I make Brune Bønner or how many people I share it with, it will always hold a special place in my heart. It is a dish that reminds me of my childhood, of my grandmother, and of the simple joys of cooking and sharing a meal with loved ones.

So the next time you are looking for a comforting and delicious dish to warm your soul, why not give Brune Bønner a try? I promise you won't be disappointed. And who knows, maybe one day you'll be sharing this recipe with your own grandchildren, passing down a piece of culinary history for generations to come.