BEAN SOUP WITH SMOKED MEAT

smoked meat

🥗Healthier: turkey bacon

💰Cheaper: ham hock

Turkey bacon reduces fat while ham hock is a budget-friendly alternative.

dried beans

🥗Healthier: canned beans

💰Cheaper: split peas

Canned beans save time, while split peas are often less expensive.

Soak dried beans overnight in water.

Drain and rinse the soaked beans.

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.

Add chopped onion, carrot, and celery; sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Add soaked beans, smoked meat, bay leaves, thyme, and black pepper to the pot.

Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.

Reduce heat to low; cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours until beans are tender.

Remove smoked meat; shred and return to the pot.

Stir in parsley, red pepper flakes, and lemon juice before serving.

Season with salt to taste.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level: