Hearty Pork Bean Soup is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for cold weather or when you need a satisfying meal. Tender chunks of pork simmer slowly with beans, vegetables, and savory spices, creating a rich, robust soup that’s both nourishing and filling. The beans add creaminess, while the pork provides a savory, meaty depth. This soup is ideal for making in large batches, as the flavors develop even more after a day or two. Serve it with crusty bread or cornbread for a delicious, warming meal that’s perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb pork shoulder or pork loin, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Sear the pork: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the pork from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same pot, add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-6 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
- Season and deglaze: Stir in the smoked paprika, thyme, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute to release the flavors. Pour in the broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Simmer the soup: Return the pork to the pot, add the beans and bay leaf, and bring the soup to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 45-60 minutes, until the pork is tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Serve: Remove the bay leaf, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
This Hearty Pork Bean Soup is rich, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy meal that will keep you warm and satisfied!
