Original Bean Soup

Original Bean Soup Recipe with Cajun Seasoning & Ham Hocks

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 3 hours | Servings: 8-10

Introduction

Bean soup is a hearty and comforting dish that has been enjoyed for generations. This original bean soup recipe is packed with a variety of beans, meats, and seasonings to create a flavorful and satisfying meal.

History

Bean soup has been a staple in many cultures for centuries. It is a versatile dish that can be made with a variety of ingredients, making it a popular choice for families looking for a nutritious and filling meal.

Ingredients

1 packet (16 oz (454 g)) of 15 or 10 bean soup mix, including cajun seasoning
2 ham hocks or 0.5 lb (227 g) of ham steak
1 can (12 oz (340 g)) of beer
2 cups of chopped onions
2 cups of chopped celery
2 cloves of garlic, chopped (up to 4)
1 can of stewed Mexican tomatoes
1 can of diced tomatoes and chilies
1 lb (454 g) of hot polish sausage
0.5 lb (227 g) of raw, boneless chicken breast

How to prepare

Sort and rinse the beans.
Combine the beans, 7 cups of water, beer, ham hocks, and the seasoning packet in a large 6-8 qt pan.
Bring to a boil and then reduce to a rapid simmer.
Add the chopped onions, celery, garlic, and tomatoes to the pan.
Simmer, covered, for at least 2 hours.
Remove the ham meat, chop it finely, and add the rest of the meat, cut into small chunks.
Simmer for 1.5 more hours until the beans are soft.

Variations

Add diced carrots and potatoes for added texture and flavor.
Use different types of beans, such as black beans or kidney beans, for a unique twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Soaking the beans overnight can help reduce cooking time and improve digestibility.

- Adding a can of beer to the soup adds depth of flavor and richness.

- Using a variety of meats, such as steak, sausage, and chicken, adds complexity to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this bean soup with a side of crusty bread or cornbread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Simmering the soup slowly allows the flavors to meld together and the beans to soften.

- Chopping the meats into small chunks ensures they cook evenly and are easy to eat.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable broth instead of beer for a non-alcoholic version.

- Substitute turkey sausage for the hot polish sausage for a lighter option.

Make Ahead Tips

This bean soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish this bean soup with fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this bean soup with a crisp green salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this bean soup contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of this bean soup contains approximately 40 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of this bean soup contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of this bean soup contains approximately 25 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This bean soup is rich in vitamins and minerals, including iron, potassium, and vitamin C.

Alergens

This bean soup contains gluten from the beer and may contain allergens from the meats used.

Summary

This bean soup is a nutritious and filling meal that is rich in carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

This original bean soup recipe is a delicious and nutritious meal that is perfect for a cozy night in. Packed with a variety of beans, meats, and seasonings, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory like a beautiful painting that hangs on the walls of my mind. It was a crisp autumn day, the leaves were falling gently from the trees, and the aroma of fresh baked bread filled the air. I was visiting my dear friend, Mrs. Jenkins, who was known far and wide for her culinary skills. She had invited me over for lunch and promised to share with me the secret to her famous Original Bean Soup.

As I entered Mrs. Jenkins' cozy kitchen, I was greeted by the sight of pots simmering on the stove and the sound of laughter filling the room. Mrs. Jenkins, with her apron tied around her waist and a twinkle in her eye, beckoned me over to the table where a steaming bowl of bean soup awaited me.

"Sit, sit, my dear," she said, motioning for me to take a seat. "I have something special to share with you today."

I eagerly took a spoonful of the soup and savored the rich, hearty flavors that danced on my taste buds. It was unlike any bean soup I had ever tasted before - a perfect blend of creamy beans, savory spices, and a touch of sweetness that lingered on my palate.

"I must know your secret, Mrs. Jenkins," I said, unable to contain my curiosity. "How do you make this incredible soup?"

Mrs. Jenkins smiled knowingly and began to recount the story of how she came to learn the recipe for Original Bean Soup. She told me that many years ago, when she was just a young bride, she had traveled to a far-off village in search of a rare herb that was said to have magical healing properties. Along her journey, she stumbled upon a quaint little farmhouse where an elderly woman lived all alone.

The old woman welcomed Mrs. Jenkins into her home and offered her a bowl of bean soup that she had been simmering on the stove. Mrs. Jenkins was hesitant at first, but one taste of the soup had her hooked. It was unlike anything she had ever tasted before - a symphony of flavors that sang on her tongue.

The old woman, sensing Mrs. Jenkins' curiosity, offered to teach her the recipe for the soup. She revealed that the secret ingredient was a pinch of the rare herb that Mrs. Jenkins had been searching for. She showed her how to prepare the beans, simmer them with fragrant spices, and add the herb at just the right moment to bring out its full flavor.

Mrs. Jenkins learned the recipe by heart and carried it with her wherever she went. It became her signature dish, the one that she would serve to friends and family on special occasions, and the one that would earn her a reputation as a master chef.

As Mrs. Jenkins finished her story, I sat in awe of the journey she had taken to discover the recipe for Original Bean Soup. It was a tale of adventure, friendship, and the power of a good meal to bring people together.

"Will you teach me how to make this soup, Mrs. Jenkins?" I asked, my eyes shining with excitement.

Mrs. Jenkins smiled and nodded, passing me a handwritten recipe card that she had kept tucked away in her apron pocket. It was faded and worn, but the words were clear and concise, just like the memories of our time together that day.

And so, I returned home with the recipe for Original Bean Soup in hand, ready to carry on the tradition that Mrs. Jenkins had passed down to me. Every time I make the soup, I am reminded of the bond we share and the joy that comes from sharing a good meal with loved ones.

The recipe for Original Bean Soup is more than just a list of ingredients and instructions - it is a story of friendship, discovery, and the magic of a simple bowl of soup to warm the heart and soul. It is a treasure that I will cherish for years to come, just like the memories of that crisp autumn day when I found the recipe that would become a part of my family's culinary legacy.