Soup > International Soups > Balkan Soups > Bean Soups

Bean Bob Chorba Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup dried white beans
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 6 cups water
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice

Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Immersion blender (optional)

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Rinse the dried white beans and soak them in water overnight.

2. Drain the soaked beans and add them to a large pot with the chopped onion, minced garlic, tomato paste, red pepper flakes, paprika, cumin, salt, black pepper, and 6 cups of water.

3. Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 1-2 hours, or until the beans are tender.

4. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until it is smooth and creamy. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup to a blender and blend it in batches.

5. Add the chopped parsley, cilantro, and lemon juice to the soup and stir to combine.

6. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.


- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 1-2 hours
Temperature:
- Simmer on low heat
Serving size:
- 4-6 servings

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 12g
- Fiber: 10g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Dried white beans can be substituted with any other type of dried beans.
- Red pepper flakes can be substituted with cayenne pepper or chili powder.
- Parsley and cilantro can be substituted with any other fresh herbs.

Variations:
- Add diced carrots, celery, and potatoes to the soup for a heartier version.
- Use vegetable broth instead of water for a richer flavor.
- Add cooked chicken or beef to the soup for a meatier version.

Tips and tricks:
- Soaking the beans overnight will help them cook faster and more evenly.
- Use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the pot for easier cleanup.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste by adding more or less spices.

Storage instructions:
- Store the leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the soup in a pot over low heat until warmed through.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve the soup in individual bowls and garnish with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt.

Garnishes:
- Sour cream or yogurt
- Croutons
- Chopped fresh herbs

Pairings:
- Crusty bread or crackers
- Salad

Suggested side dishes:
- Grilled cheese sandwich
- Roasted vegetables

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the soup is too thick, add more water or broth to thin it out.
- If the soup is too thin, let it simmer for longer to reduce the liquid.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to soak the beans overnight to reduce cooking time and ensure they are fully cooked.

Food history:
- Bob chorba is a traditional Bulgarian soup made with beans, vegetables, and spices.

Flavor profiles:
- Spicy, savory, and hearty

Serving suggestions:
- Serve the soup as a main dish for lunch or dinner.

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Region: Bulgarian

Taste: Savory, Tangy, Spicy, Earthy, Hearty