Red Bean Soup

Jamaican Red Bean Soup Recipe - Delicious and Hearty Soup

Region / culture: Jamaica | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 2 hours | Servings: 6

Introduction

Red bean soup is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for a cold winter day. This soup is made with red kidney beans, smoked ham, and a variety of vegetables and seasonings. It is a delicious and nutritious meal that is sure to warm you up from the inside out.

History

Red bean soup has been a popular dish in many cultures for centuries. It is believed to have originated in the southern United States, where it was a staple in many households. The combination of red kidney beans and smoked ham creates a rich and flavorful soup that is perfect for feeding a hungry family.

Ingredients

2 cups dried red kidney beans, soaked overnight and drained
2 tbsp butter
1 large onion, peeled and chopped
1 clove garlic, peeled and minced
1 stalk celery and leaves, chopped
1 carrot, peeled and chopped
0.5 lb (227 g) smoked ham, cut into large chunks
1 large ham bone, if available
2 qt (1.89 liters) water
1 tbsp worcestershire sauce
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
0.5 tsp dried thyme
2 bay leaves
2 tbsp lemon juice
0.13 tsp dried hot red pepper flakes
salt and pepper
chopped fresh parsley (to garnish)

How to prepare

Place the beans in a saucepan, cover them with fresh water, and bring to a boil.
Boil the beans for 10 minutes, then drain them and set aside.
In a dutch oven or large saucepan, melt the butter and cook the onion, garlic, celery, and carrot covered, until they are softened.
Add the boiled beans, ham, ham bone, water, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, thyme, bay leaves, lemon juice, pepper flakes, and salt and pepper to taste.
Bring the mixture to a boil and let it simmer for 2 hours or until the beans are very soft.
Remove and discard the ham bone.
Take out the chunks of ham and set them aside.
Pass the soup through a fine sieve and return it to the saucepan.
Discard the solids left in the sieve.
Dice the chunks of ham into small pieces and add them to the soup.
Reheat the soup and taste it to adjust the seasonings if needed.
Serve the soup hot, garnished with a sprinkle of parsley.

Variations

For a vegetarian version of this soup, omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of water.
Add diced tomatoes or bell peppers for extra flavor and color.
Top the soup with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated cheese before serving.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Soaking the beans overnight helps to reduce cooking time and ensures that they cook evenly.

- Adding a ham bone to the soup adds extra flavor and richness to the broth.

- Be sure to taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasonings as needed.

Serving Suggestions

Red bean soup can be served as a main dish with a side of crusty bread or cornbread. It can also be served as a starter before a larger meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to simmer the soup slowly to allow the flavors to develop.

- Stir the soup occasionally to prevent sticking and burning on the bottom of the pot.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have smoked ham, you can use bacon or sausage instead.

- You can use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs if needed.

Make Ahead Tips

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

Presentation Ideas

Serve the red bean soup in individual bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley. You can also drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil on top for added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Red bean soup pairs well with a crisp green salad or a side of steamed vegetables. It also goes well with a glass of red wine or a cold beer.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover red bean soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of red bean soup contains approximately 250 calories. This soup is a satisfying and filling meal that is perfect for lunch or dinner.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of red bean soup contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body and are essential for overall health.

Fats

Each serving of red bean soup contains approximately 8 grams of fat. The fat in this soup comes from the butter and the smoked ham. It is important to consume fats in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Proteins

Each serving of red bean soup contains approximately 15 grams of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body and is an important part of a healthy diet.

Vitamins and minerals

Red bean soup is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and potassium. These nutrients are important for overall health and well-being.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (butter) and pork (ham). It may not be suitable for individuals with dairy or pork allergies.

Summary

Red bean soup is a nutritious and delicious meal that is rich in carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a satisfying and comforting dish that is perfect for a cold winter day.

Summary

Red bean soup is a delicious and nutritious meal that is perfect for a cold winter day. This hearty soup is made with red kidney beans, smoked ham, and a variety of vegetables and seasonings. It is a satisfying and comforting dish that is sure to warm you up from the inside out.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the joy I felt when I first stumbled upon this recipe for Red Bean Soup. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in the countryside. My grandmother, who was a fantastic cook, had passed down many recipes to me over the years. But this one was different. It was a recipe that I had never heard of before, and I was eager to give it a try.

I had always loved cooking, and I spent many hours in the kitchen with my grandmother, watching her work her magic with the pots and pans. She taught me the importance of using fresh ingredients and taking the time to cook things properly. And so, armed with this knowledge, I set out to make the Red Bean Soup.

I remember the day like it was yesterday. The sun was shining, and the birds were singing in the trees. I gathered up all the ingredients I would need – red beans, onions, garlic, tomatoes, and a few secret spices that my grandmother had whispered to me in confidence. I set to work, chopping and slicing and stirring, the delicious aroma of the soup filling the air.

As the soup simmered on the stove, I couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment. I had followed the recipe to the letter, and I knew that it was going to be delicious. When it was finally ready, I ladled myself a bowl and took a tentative sip. The flavors exploded on my tongue – it was perfection.

From that day on, Red Bean Soup became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I made it for friends and family, who all raved about its deliciousness. I even entered it into a local cooking competition, where it won first prize. I was thrilled to see my hard work and dedication pay off in such a tangible way.

Over the years, I have made the Red Bean Soup countless times, tweaking the recipe here and there to make it my own. But the basic ingredients and techniques remain the same. It is a dish that never fails to bring a smile to my face and warmth to my belly.

I often think back to that day in the kitchen, when I first stumbled upon the recipe for Red Bean Soup. It was a turning point for me, a moment when I realized that cooking was not just a practical skill, but a true passion. And I have my grandmother to thank for that, for instilling in me a love of good food and the knowledge of how to create it.

So here's to you, Red Bean Soup. You have been a constant in my life, a dish that brings me joy and comfort in equal measure. And I will continue to make you with love and care, passing on the recipe to future generations so that they too can experience the magic of this delicious soup.