Mexican Pork and Bean Soup
Mexican Pork and Bean Soup Recipe
Introduction
Mexican Pork and Bean Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender pork, savory beans, and a blend of Mexican spices. This soup is perfect for a cozy night in or for serving at a gathering with friends and family.
History
This recipe draws inspiration from traditional Mexican cuisine, which is known for its bold flavors and use of fresh ingredients. Pork and beans have long been staples in Mexican cooking, and this soup is a delicious way to showcase these classic ingredients.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless top loin pork chops, diced
- 0.5 onion, chopped
- 1 x 14.5 oz (411 g) can chicken broth
- 1 x 15 oz (425 g) can Mexican-style chopped tomatoes
- 1 x 15 oz (425 g) can pinto beans, drained
- 2 tsp chili powder
How to prepare
- In a deep saucepan, brown the diced pork with the onion. Stir in the remaining ingredients, bring to a boil, then lower the heat. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes.
Variations
- Add diced bell peppers or corn for extra vegetables.
- Use black beans or kidney beans instead of pinto beans for a different flavor.
- For a spicier soup, add a chopped jalapeno or a dash of hot sauce.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to brown the pork and onion before adding the other ingredients to enhance the flavor of the soup.
- Adjust the amount of chili powder to suit your taste preferences. You can also add other spices such as cumin or paprika for additional flavor.
- For a thicker soup, mash some of the beans before adding them to the pot.
- Serve the soup with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice for a burst of freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this soup with a side of warm tortillas or crusty bread for a complete meal. You can also top it with avocado slices, shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor.
Cooking Techniques
This soup is cooked on the stovetop in a saucepan, making it a quick and easy meal to prepare. The key is to simmer the soup slowly to allow the flavors to meld together.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have pork chops, you can use diced chicken or beef instead. You can also use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version of this soup.
Make Ahead Tips
This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it on the stovetop before serving.
Presentation Ideas
Garnish the soup with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a drizzle of hot sauce for a pop of color and flavor. Serve it in colorful bowls for a festive touch.
Pairing Recommendations
This soup pairs well with a crisp green salad or a side of Mexican rice. A cold beer or a glass of sangria would also complement the flavors of the dish.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the soup on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of this soup contains approximately 300 calories.
Carbohydrates
This soup is a good source of carbohydrates, with each serving containing approximately 25 grams.
Fats
Each serving of Mexican Pork and Bean Soup contains about 10 grams of fat, making it a moderate source of fats.
Proteins
This soup is rich in protein, with each serving providing around 20 grams.
Vitamins and minerals
Mexican Pork and Bean Soup is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, iron, and potassium.
Alergens
This recipe contains pork and chicken broth, which may be allergens for some individuals. Be sure to check for any allergies before serving.
Summary
Overall, Mexican Pork and Bean Soup is a nutritious and balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.
Summary
Mexican Pork and Bean Soup is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for a cozy night in or for serving at a gathering with friends and family. With its bold flavors and hearty ingredients, this soup is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.
How did I get this recipe?
The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, eager to learn the art of cooking from my own grandmother. She was a wonderful cook, always coming up with new and delicious dishes to feed our family. One day, as I was helping her in the kitchen, she handed me a tattered old cookbook and told me to find a recipe that I wanted to try.
I flipped through the pages, my eyes scanning over the various recipes for soups, stews, and casseroles. And then, there it was - Mexican Pork and Bean Soup. The name alone intrigued me, and I knew I had to give it a try. The ingredients were simple - pork, beans, tomatoes, and a variety of spices and seasonings. It seemed like a hearty and flavorful dish, perfect for a chilly day.
With my grandmother's guidance, I set to work preparing the soup. I chopped the onions and garlic, browned the pork in a hot skillet, and added the tomatoes and beans to simmer on the stove. The aroma that filled the kitchen was intoxicating - a blend of spices and seasonings that made my mouth water in anticipation.
As the soup bubbled away, my grandmother shared stories of her own experiences with cooking. She told me about the time she had learned to make tamales from a friend who had immigrated from Mexico, and how she had adapted the recipe to suit our family's tastes. She spoke of the joy she found in creating meals for her loved ones, and the satisfaction that came from seeing them enjoy her cooking.
Finally, the soup was ready. I ladled it into bowls, garnishing each with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of shredded cheese. The first spoonful was like a revelation - the flavors of the pork, beans, and spices melding together in perfect harmony. It was a dish that warmed both body and soul, a taste of Mexico in every bite.
From that day on, Mexican Pork and Bean Soup became a staple in our family's meal rotation. I made it for special occasions and simple weeknight dinners alike, each time tweaking the recipe to suit my own tastes. I added extra chili powder for a bit of heat, or substituted black beans for pinto beans for a different texture. But no matter how I altered the recipe, the essence of the dish remained the same - a comforting and flavorful soup that brought joy to all who tasted it.
Over the years, I shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, passing on the tradition of Mexican Pork and Bean Soup to a new generation. I taught my own children how to make it, watching with pride as they learned to chop vegetables and brown meat with confidence. And now, as I sit here recalling that first time I discovered the recipe, I realize just how much cooking has shaped my life and brought me closer to those I love.
So here's to Mexican Pork and Bean Soup, a dish that has stood the test of time and brought joy to countless hearts. May it continue to warm bellies and spirits for generations to come. And may the memories of cooking and sharing meals with loved ones always be cherished, just as I cherish the memory of finding this beloved recipe all those years ago.
Categories
| Bean Soup Recipes | Chicken Stock And Broth Recipes | Chili Powder Recipes | Mexican Recipes | Mexican Soups | Onion Recipes | Pinto Bean Recipes | Pork Loin Chop Recipes | Tomato Recipes |