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Serbian Pasulj Bean Soup

Serbian Pasulj Bean Soup
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Serbian Pasulj Bean Soup is a rich and hearty traditional stew featuring slow-simmered white beans combined with smoky meat, aromatic vegetables, and warming spices. This comforting dish is nutritious, flavorful, and adaptable, perfect for any season and dietary preference. It fills your kitchen with inviting aromas and delivers a soul-satisfying meal that embodies Serbian culinary tradition.

Ingredients

Scale

Beans

  • 1 cup dried white beans (cannellini or butter beans)

Meat and Protein

  • 200g smoked meat or sausage (such as smoked pork or kielbasa) – optional for vegetarian variation

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced

Spices and Seasonings

  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tbsp paprika (sweet or smoked)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Liquids

  • 6 cups water or broth (vegetable or meat-based)

Optional Garnishes and Variations

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Sour cream (for serving)
  • Additional smoked paprika or liquid smoke (for vegetarian version)
  • Chili flakes or hot peppers (for spicy variation)
  • Fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley (for herb-infused version)

Instructions

  1. Preparing the Beans: Soak the dried white beans in plenty of water overnight or for at least 8 hours to soften them, reduce cooking time, and improve digestibility.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat a bit of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking until golden and fragrant to build a flavorful base for the soup.
  3. Add Vegetables and Meat: Stir in diced carrots, celery, and your choice of smoked meat or sausage. Let the mixture cook for several minutes to allow the flavors to mingle and the meat to release its fat for added richness.
  4. Incorporate Tomato Paste and Spices: Mix in the tomato paste, paprika, bay leaves, salt, and pepper, coating the ingredients evenly to enhance color and depth of flavor.
  5. Combine Beans and Liquid: Drain the soaked beans and add them to the pot. Pour in enough water or broth to cover the ingredients by about an inch, preparing the soup for slow simmering.
  6. Slow Simmer Until Tender: Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let the soup simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender and flavors have melded beautifully.
  7. Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Remove the bay leaves, taste the soup, and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve the Serbian Pasulj Bean Soup piping hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a dollop of sour cream if desired.

Notes

  • Use high-quality, whole dried beans for the best texture and flavor.
  • Always soak beans before cooking to reduce time and improve digestibility.
  • Simmer the soup gently and stir occasionally to prevent sticking and burning.
  • If smoked meat is unavailable, substitute with smoked paprika or liquid smoke for flavor.
  • The soup can be customized with different beans, spices, and smoked meats according to preference.

Nutrition

Keywords: Serbian Pasulj, Bean Soup, Traditional Serbian Soup, White Bean Stew, Smoky Bean Soup, Comfort Food, Gluten Free Soup, Slow Cooked Soup

Find it online: https://gourmetglazing.com/serbian-pasulj-bean-soup/