The herbs are the star of this smokey Romanian bean stew | Fasole cu Ciolan

smoked pork

🥗Healthier: chicken breast

💰Cheaper: pork shoulder

Chicken is leaner and pork shoulder is more affordable.

dried beans

🥗Healthier: canned beans

💰Cheaper: dried lentils

Canned beans save time while lentils are often less expensive.

Soak beans overnight.

Drain beans & rinse.

Dice carrot.

Dice onion.

Grind coriander (if necessary).

Place the ham in a large pot and cover with water.

Bring to a boil.

Simmer until the meat is tender, about 2-3 hours.

Remove the ham and let cool, reserving the cooking liquid.

Drain the beans, rinse, and add to broth.

Add tarragon and coriander (or other herbs).

Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and cook for 2 hours or until the beans are tender.

Add oil to a pan over medium heat.

Add the diced onions and carrots, and saute until soft.

Add paprika and stir to coat.

Add the soffrito to the pot with the beans.

Remove the ham from the bone (if necessary), and chop into bite-sized pieces.

Add to the beans along with the tomato puree.

Season to taste with salt & pepper.

Simmer for 20-30 minutes.

Serve and enjoy.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level: