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Simple Traditional Pasulj Recipe (Serbian Bean Soup) – Maja’s Recipes

Pasulj, a hearty bean soup, holds a special place in Serbian cuisine. Rich in flavour and comforting in nature, this simple recipe embodies the essence of traditional home-cooked meals. With its robust base of beans and smoked meats, Pasulj is perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. Maja’s Recipes offers an authentic approach to this beloved dish, allowing you to create a warm serving of Serbian culture in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

To prepare Maja’s Pasulj, you will need:

• 500g dried white beans (pinto or cannellini are ideal)
• 200g smoked pork ribs or sausages
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked, if available)
• 2 tablespoons sunflower oil (or other cooking oil)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish
• Optional: chilli flakes for a spicy kick

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beans

1. Rinse the dried beans under cold water to remove any impurities.
2. Soak the beans overnight in a large bowl of water to rehydrate them. This step is crucial as it significantly reduces cooking time and ensures that the beans are tender.

Step 2: Cook the Beans

1. Drain the beans and place them in a large pot. Cover with fresh water (about 1 litre) and bring to a boil.
2. Reduce the heat and let them simmer for approximately 1 hour, or until they are soft but not falling apart. You may need to add more water throughout the cooking process.

Step 3: Add the Meats and Vegetables

1. In a separate pan, heat the sunflower oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent.
2. Stir in the diced carrots and red bell pepper, cooking for another 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic, paprika, and a pinch of salt, cooking for an additional minute to release their flavours.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

1. Once the beans are tender, add the smoked pork ribs or sausages to the pot along with the sautéed vegetables.
2. Toss in the bay leaves and season with more salt and pepper as desired. If you prefer some heat, sprinkle in a few chilli flakes.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup

1. Cover the pot and continue to simmer the soup on low heat for about 30 minutes, allowing the flavours to meld together beautifully.
2. Stir occasionally and check the consistency. If the soup is too thick, you can add a little more water to achieve your desired texture.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Once cooked, remove the bay leaves from the soup.
2. Ladle the Pasulj into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
3. Serve hot, accompanied by crusty bread or cornbread—a perfect pairing for mopping up every drop.

Final Touches

Pasulj is not only delicious; it also represents the heart of Serbian hospitality. Each family may have its unique twist on the recipe, often incorporating local flavours or ingredients. Maja’s traditional recipe allows flexibility, so feel free to adjust the ingredients according to your taste preferences.

This comforting stew embodies warmth, tradition, and community spirit, making it a beloved dish to share with family and friends. So, whether you’re warming up on a cold winter’s evening or hosting a festive gathering, Pasulj is sure to bring a taste of Serbia right into your home.

Bon appétit!

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