Description
Cuban White Bean Soup is a flavorful and comforting dish made with tender white beans, smoky ham, garlic, and aromatic Cuban spices. This hearty soup combines traditional ingredients to create a warming meal that is perfect for any day needing a touch of soulful cooking.
Ingredients
Beans and Meat
- 2 cups dried white beans, soaked overnight
- 1 cup smoked ham, diced
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Spices and Liquids
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the aromatics.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Add ham and spices: Stir in the diced smoked ham, cumin, and oregano. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to release the flavors.
- Combine beans and broth: Add the soaked white beans, 6 cups of chicken broth, and the bay leaf to the pot. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer the soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer gently for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the beans are tender.
- Season and finish: Remove the bay leaf and season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir well.
- Garnish and serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a bright, fresh finish. Serve hot with rice or crusty bread if desired.
Notes
- Add a splash of lime juice just before serving to brighten the flavors and add a hint of acidity.
- Pair the soup with white rice or crusty bread to create a complete, satisfying meal.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cuban
