Pork and Bean Soup

Pork and Bean Soup

Pork and Bean Soup is a hearty, comforting classic packed with protein, fiber, and rich, savory flavors.

This rustic soup combines tender pork, creamy beans, and a flavorful broth simmered to perfection. It’s the kind of soup that warms you up on a cold day and fills the kitchen with incredible aroma.

🥣 Pork and Bean Soup Recipe

Ingredients:

Pork shoulder or pork belly: 500g (1 lb), cut into bite-sized pieces

White beans or navy beans: 1 ½ cups dried (soaked overnight) or 2 cans (drained and rinsed)

Onion: 1 large, diced

Garlic: 3-4 cloves, minced

Carrots: 2, diced

Celery: 2 stalks, chopped

Tomatoes: 2 large, chopped (or 1 can diced tomatoes)

Chicken or vegetable broth: 5-6 cups

Bay leaf: 1

Thyme: 1 teaspoon dried (or a few sprigs fresh)

Paprika: 1 teaspoon (optional, adds smokiness)

Salt and pepper: to taste

Olive oil: 2 tablespoons

Fresh parsley: for garnish

Instructions:

Brown the Pork

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the pork pieces and cook until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot, add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Add Tomatoes and Spices

Stir in the chopped tomatoes, paprika, thyme, and bay leaf. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes break down a bit.

Combine Pork and Beans

Return the pork to the pot. Add the soaked (or canned) beans. Pour in the broth, stirring everything together.

Simmer

Bring the soup to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer gently for 45 minutes to 1 hour (if using dried beans, simmer until the beans are tender—may take a bit longer). Stir occasionally and skim any foam if needed.

Season to Taste

Once the pork is tender and the beans are soft, season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the thickness by adding water or simmering longer.

Serve

Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with crusty bread or rice on the side.

🌿 Optional Add-ins / Variations:

Smoked ham hock or bacon: Adds smoky depth.

Cabbage or kale: Stir in greens during the last 10 minutes for extra nutrients.

Chili flakes: For a bit of heat.

Tomato paste: Adds extra richness and body to the broth.

✅ Health Benefits:

Beans: Packed with fiber, protein, and heart-healthy nutrients.

Pork: Provides essential B vitamins and protein.

Vegetables: Add vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

🍲 Final Thoughts:

This Pork and Bean Soup is a filling, old-school comfort dish that only gets better the next day as the flavors deepen. Perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or cozy weekends. Pair it with a simple green salad or a slice of warm bread, and you’ve got a complete meal.