Cuban White Bean Soup – tastykitchenjoy

Cuban White Bean Soup is a delightful and hearty dish that brings warmth to any occasion. Loaded with nutritious ingredients like white beans, vegetables, and tender meats, this soup is a fantastic choice for family dinners or cozy gatherings. Its unique blend of flavors makes it stand out, ensuring that each spoonful is satisfying and comforting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Wholesome Ingredients: This soup is packed with protein-rich white beans and hearty vegetables, making it both nourishing and filling.
Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, you can create a delicious meal without fussing over complicated techniques.
Versatile Dish: Perfect for chilly evenings or as a meal prep option for the week ahead. Enjoy it alone or paired with crusty bread!
Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of spices and smoked chicken creates a rich flavor profile that will impress your family and friends.
Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins to make this soup your own.

Tools and Preparation

To make Cuban White Bean Soup efficiently, having the right tools can enhance your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large pot or Dutch oven
Cutting board
Sharp knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering the soup evenly, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
Sharp knife: Ensures precise chopping, making ingredient prep quick and easy.
Ladle: Perfect for serving the soup without spills, helping you enjoy every last drop!

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

14 ounce Dry White Beans (rinsed and soaked)
2 tablespoon Olive Oil
1 medium Onion (finely diced)
1 large Carrot (diced)
3 – 4 Garlic Cloves (minced)
1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
½ teaspoon Cumin

For the Proteins

1 pound Top Sirloin Steak (cut into 1 inch pieces)
½ teaspoon Salt (plus more if needed at the end)
3 – 3 ½ ounces Spanish chicken sausage (casings removed and cut into ¼ inch rounds)
1 – 1 ½ pound Smoked chicken ham Shanks or chicken ham Hocks (rinsed)

Broth and Vegetables

6 cups Chicken Broth
8 cups Water
1 Bay Leaf
1 large Potato (peeled and cut into 1-2 inch pieces)
1 bunch Swiss Chard (about 6 leaves thoroughly rinsed, stalks removed and leaves chopped)

How to Make Cuban White Bean Soup

Step 1: Prepare the White Beans

Start by rinsing the dry white beans under cold water. Then soak them in plenty of water for at least 6 hours or overnight. This process helps to soften the beans before cooking.

Step 2: Start Cooking

In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, stir in the finely diced onion and carrot. Cook until they are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, top sirloin steak pieces, Spanish chicken sausage rounds, smoked chicken ham shanks, chicken broth, water, bay leaf, potato pieces, and soaked white beans.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

Bring everything to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about an hour or until the beans are tender. Stir occasionally. Finally, add chopped Swiss chard in the last few minutes of cooking until just wilted.

Enjoy your homemade Cuban White Bean Soup!

How to Serve Cuban White Bean Soup

Cuban White Bean Soup is a comforting dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

Chopped cilantro or parsley adds a burst of freshness and complements the flavors of the soup perfectly.

Pair with Crusty Bread

Serve alongside warm, crusty bread for dipping. A baguette or sourdough works wonderfully to soak up the savory broth.

Add a Squeeze of Lime

A squeeze of lime juice brightens the soup and adds a zesty kick that balances the richness of the beans.

Serve Over Rice

For a heartier meal, ladle the soup over cooked white rice. This adds texture and makes it even more filling.

Accompany with Avocado Slices

Creamy avocado slices on top provide richness and contrast nicely with the soup’s flavors.

How to Perfect Cuban White Bean Soup

Perfecting your Cuban White Bean Soup can make all the difference in flavor and texture. Here are some tips to help you achieve that ideal bowl.

Soak the Beans Properly: Soaking your beans overnight helps them cook evenly and reduces cooking time significantly.
Use Quality Broth: Opt for a high-quality chicken broth for deeper flavor. Homemade broth can elevate this dish even further.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and spices towards the end of cooking for optimal flavor.
Cook Low and Slow: Letting the soup simmer allows all the ingredients to meld together beautifully, enhancing taste.

Best Side Dishes for Cuban White Bean Soup

Cuban White Bean Soup pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its hearty nature. Here are some great options to consider:

Plantain Chips: Crispy plantain chips offer a delightful crunch that contrasts well with the soup’s creaminess.
Cuban Black Beans: These flavorful beans make an excellent pairing, providing a contrasting texture and taste.
Tostones: Twice-fried green plantains are crispy and savory, perfect for dipping into your soup.
Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and vinaigrette adds freshness to your meal.
Cornbread: Sweet cornbread balances the savory notes of the soup beautifully while adding satisfying carbs.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring additional nutrients and a caramelized flavor that complements the dish well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your Cuban White Bean Soup to the next level. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

Skipping the Soaking Process: Not soaking the white beans can lead to longer cooking times and uneven texture. Always soak them for at least a few hours or overnight.
Overcooking the Vegetables: Cooking the vegetables too long can make them mushy. Add delicate greens like Swiss chard towards the end of cooking.
Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Under-seasoning can make your soup bland. Taste and adjust salt and spices before serving to enhance flavors.
Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Poor quality beans or broth can impact the overall taste. Opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results.
Neglecting Storage Tips: Improper storage can affect freshness. Store leftovers in airtight containers and refrigerate promptly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in airtight containers.
Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Cuban White Bean Soup

Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
Will keep well for up to 3 months when frozen.

Reheating Cuban White Bean Soup

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish for about 20 minutes.
Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered, in 1-minute intervals until hot.
Stovetop: Reheat on medium heat; stir occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Cuban White Bean Soup:

Can I use different types of beans in Cuban White Bean Soup?

Yes, you can substitute with other beans like kidney or pinto, but white beans provide a unique flavor and texture.

How spicy is Cuban White Bean Soup?

This recipe is not inherently spicy, but you can add chili flakes or pepper to suit your taste preferences.

Can I make Cuban White Bean Soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit any meat while increasing vegetables for hearty flavor.

What can I serve with Cuban White Bean Soup?

Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and delicious.

How do I customize my Cuban White Bean Soup?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices. Experimenting with herbs like cilantro can also enhance its flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

Cuban White Bean Soup is not only hearty but also versatile, making it perfect for any meal. You can customize it with various proteins or veggies, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences. This soup is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings—give it a try today!