Romanian Bean Soup

Experience the comforting flavors of Romanian Bean Soup, a hearty and rustic dish brimming with tradition and rich taste. This soul-warming recipe combines tender white beans, smoky pork or bacon, and a medley of vibrant vegetables like carrots, celery, and red bell pepper, all slowly simmered to perfection in a flavorful paprika-spiced broth. Infused with aromatic bay leaves, garlic, and a touch of tomato paste, this classic soup is finished with a sprinkle of fresh dill for a burst of freshness. Perfect for cozy evenings, this nutritious bean soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or traditional Romanian cornbread. Whether you're exploring Eastern European cuisines or seeking a satisfying, protein-packed meal, this Romanian Bean Soup is sure to delight your taste buds.

Nutriscore Rating: 72/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:90 mins

Total Time:110 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 250 grams dried white beans (cannellini or navy)
• 200 grams smoked pork or bacon
• 1 large onion
• 2 medium carrots
• 2 celery stalks
• 1 red bell pepper
• 3 garlic cloves
• 2 bay leaf
• 1 liter vegetable or chicken stock
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon pepper
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for garnish)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Directions

Step 1

Rinse 250g of dried white beans under cold water and soak them in a bowl of water overnight (8-12 hours). Drain and rinse before cooking.

Step 2

Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 200g of smoked pork or bacon, cut into small pieces, and sauté for 5 minutes until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.

Step 3

In the same pot, add 1 large chopped onion, 2 diced carrots, 2 diced celery stalks, and 1 chopped red bell pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften.

Step 4

Add 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and mix well for 1 minute to release the aroma.

Step 5

Add the soaked and drained beans, 2 bay leaves, and 1 liter of vegetable or chicken stock to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer on low for 60-70 minutes, or until the beans are tender.

Step 6

Once the beans are cooked, stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and the lightly browned smoked pork or bacon. Let the soup simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes for the flavors to meld together.

Step 7

Season the soup with 1 teaspoon of salt and 0.5 teaspoon of pepper, adjusting to taste.

Step 8

Remove the bay leaves and garnish the soup with 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped dill. For optional brightness, drizzle with 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice before serving.

Step 9

Serve hot with crusty bread or traditional Romanian cornbread.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	2079.5 grams (2079.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2460

Total Fat 116.10g	149%
Saturated Fat 33.10g	166%
Polyunsaturated Fat 16.90g
Cholesterol 220mg	73%
Sodium 9746mg	424%
Total Carbohydrate 213.40g	78%
Dietary Fiber 52.20g	186%
Total Sugars 34.60g
Protein 147.10g	294%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 603mg	46%
Iron 22mg	122%
Potassium 7515mg	160%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 42.0%

Protein: 23.7%

Carbs: 34.3%