Hearty Bean Soup with Pork

This traditional Central European dish, popular in Slovakia and the Czech Republic, is a comforting blend of tender pork, hearty white beans, and flavorful oyster mushrooms, all simmered together in a rich, savory broth.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or simply want to enjoy a bowl of comfort food, this soup is sure to satisfy.

The Heart and Soul of Bean Soup

Bean soup is a staple in many Central European households, especially during the colder months. It’s a dish that combines simple, rustic ingredients to create a meal that is both nourishing and deeply satisfying. The star of the soup is, of course, the beans, which are soaked overnight to ensure they cook to tender perfection. Combined with chunks of pork shoulder, which adds richness and depth of flavor, this soup is a meal in itself.

Choosing the Best Ingredients

For this soup, the choice of beans is crucial. White dry beans are traditional and provide a creamy texture once cooked. Pork shoulder, with its balance of meat and fat, is ideal for slow cooking, ensuring that the soup is rich and flavorful.

Oyster mushrooms add an earthy note to the dish, while dried marjoram and bay leaves enhance the overall flavor. The addition of canned diced tomatoes brings a subtle acidity, balancing the richness of the pork and beans.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Bean Soup with Pork

The first step in making this soup is to sauté finely chopped onion in olive oil until golden brown. This forms the base of the soup, providing sweetness and depth. Garlic, bay leaves, and allspice are added to enhance the flavor profile, followed by cubes of pork shoulder, which are browned to lock in their juices.

Next, the soaked beans are stirred into the pot, followed by a splash of white wine, which helps to deglaze the pan and adds a layer of complexity to the soup. Canned diced tomatoes are then added, contributing a subtle sweetness and a bit of acidity.

The entire mixture is then covered with hot broth or water and left to simmer until the beans and pork are tender and flavorful.

Midway through cooking, sliced oyster mushrooms and dried marjoram are added to the soup. The mushrooms soak up the flavors of the broth, while the marjoram provides a fragrant, herbal note that complements the richness of the pork and beans.

Serving Suggestions

Bean soup with pork is best served hot, straight from the pot. Garnish each bowl with a handful of chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. To complete the meal, toast slices of buttermilk bread in a pan with a bit of olive oil until crispy and golden.

Rub the toasted bread with a garlic clove for an extra layer of flavor, and serve alongside the soup for dipping.

A Tradition Worth Sharing

This bean soup with pork is more than just a meal; it’s a tradition that has been passed down through generations. It’s a dish that brings people together, warming not just the body but the soul as well.

Whether you’re enjoying it with your family on a cold winter’s night or sharing it with friends at a gathering, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household.

So, the next time you’re looking for a hearty, comforting meal, give this bean soup with pork a try. It’s a classic recipe that’s full of flavor, easy to make, and perfect for any occasion.