Serbian Baked Beans with Smoked Meat and Paprika (Pasulj sa Suvim Mesom i Paprikom)
A hearty and flavorful baked bean dish, distinct from the simpler 'Pasulj na Vojnički način'. This version incorporates generous amounts of smoked meat (like cured pork ribs or bacon) and a rich paprika-infused tomato base, creating a deeply satisfying stew.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Dried white beans (e.g., navy or great northern)(soaked overnight and drained)
- 300 g Smoked pork ribs or thick-cut smoked bacon(cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 2 large Onions(chopped)
- 2 medium Carrots(diced)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 3 tbsp Tomato paste
- 2 tbsp Sweet paprika
- 1 tsp Hot paprika(or to taste)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil or lard
- 1.5 l Water or vegetable broth
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 1 piece Bay leaf
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the oil or lard over medium heat. Add the chopped smoked meat and cook until browned and some fat has rendered, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the meat with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
- 2
Add the chopped onions and diced carrots to the pot. Sauté until the onions are softened and translucent, about 8-10 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3
Stir in the tomato paste, sweet paprika, and hot paprika. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant and the tomato paste has darkened slightly.
- 4
Add the soaked and drained white beans to the pot, along with the browned smoked meat. Pour in the water or broth, ensuring the beans and meat are fully submerged. Add the bay leaf.
- 5
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer gently for at least 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the beans are very tender and the stew has thickened. Stir occasionally, adding more liquid if it becomes too dry.
- 6
Once the beans are tender, season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember that the smoked meat will add saltiness, so taste before adding too much salt. Remove the bay leaf.
- 7
Serve the baked beans hot, often with a dollop of sour cream or a side of crusty bread.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Soaking the beans overnight is crucial for even cooking and digestibility.
- ✓Using a combination of sweet and hot paprika provides a balanced flavor profile.
- ✓The longer the stew simmers, the richer the flavors will become.
🔄 Variations
- Add a diced bell pepper along with the onions and carrots.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the smoked meat and use vegetable broth, adding extra smoked paprika for depth.
- A small amount of dried marjoram can be added for an herbaceous note.