Pasul Kosovar (Kosovar Bean Soup)
A hearty and comforting bean soup, Pasul is a staple in Kosovar cuisine. Made with simple ingredients like dried beans, vegetables, and spices, it's a warming and nutritious dish perfect for any season.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 cups Dried cannellini beans(Soaked overnight)
- 1 large Onion(Finely chopped)
- 1 medium Carrot(Chopped)
- 1 medium Bell pepper(Chopped (red or green))
- 2 cloves Garlic cloves(Minced)
- 3 tbsp Olive oil
- 1.5 tbsp Flour
- 1 tsp Paprika(Sweet or smoked)
- 1 cube Vegetable bouillon cube
- 6 cups Water(Or as needed)
- 1 tsp Salt(Or to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(Or to taste)
- 100 g Smoked meat (optional)(Such as bacon or ham hocks, for added flavor)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Soak the dried beans in plenty of water overnight (at least 8 hours). Drain and rinse them thoroughly.
💡 Tip: Soaking beans helps reduce cooking time and makes them easier to digest. - 2
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 7-10 minutes.
- 3
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 4
Stir in the flour and paprika, cooking for about 1 minute to form a paste.
- 5
Add the soaked and rinsed beans, vegetable bouillon cube, and 6 cups of water to the pot. If using smoked meat, add it now.
- 6
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the beans are tender.
💡 Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. - 7
Remove the smoked meat (if used), shred it, and return it to the pot. Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste.
💡 Tip: Taste and adjust seasoning before serving. - 8
Serve hot, optionally with a dollop of yogurt or a side of crusty bread.
💡 Tip: This soup is even better the next day as the flavors meld.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a creamier texture, you can mash some of the beans against the side of the pot.
- ✓If you don't have cannellini beans, other white beans like Great Northern or navy beans can be used.
- ✓This soup freezes well.
🔄 Variations
- Add other root vegetables like parsnips or celery root.
- For a vegetarian/vegan version, omit the smoked meat and use vegetable broth.