Serbian Baked Beans with Smoked Ribs
Pasulj sa Rebarcima
A hearty and flavorful one-pot dish featuring tender baked beans slow-cooked with smoky pork ribs, aromatic vegetables, and paprika. This is a comforting staple in Serbian cuisine, perfect for a cold day.
๐ง Ingredients
- 500 g Dried white beans (e.g., Great Northern or Navy)(soaked overnight and drained)
- 500 g Smoked pork ribs(cut into individual ribs)
- 2 large Onions(chopped)
- 2 medium Carrots(chopped)
- 1 medium Parsnip(chopped)
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil or lard
- 2 tbsp Sweet paprika
- 1 tsp Hot paprika (optional)
- 2 tbsp Tomato paste
- 2 Bay leaves
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- as needed Water or vegetable broth
๐จโ๐ณ Instructions
- 1
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the oil or lard over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until softened and translucent, about 8-10 minutes.
- 2
Add the chopped carrots and parsnip to the pot and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- 3
Stir in the minced garlic, sweet paprika, and hot paprika (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the paprika.
- 4
Add the tomato paste and cook for another minute, stirring to combine.
- 5
Add the drained soaked beans, smoked pork ribs, and bay leaves to the pot. Stir everything to coat.
- 6
Pour in enough water or vegetable broth to generously cover the ingredients. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer gently for at least 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the beans are very tender and the pork ribs are falling off the bone. Stir occasionally and add more liquid if needed to keep the beans submerged.
- 7
Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaves before serving.
- 8
Serve hot, ensuring each portion gets a good amount of beans and ribs. It's often served with a side of crusty bread.
๐ก Pro Tips
- โSoaking the beans overnight is crucial for even cooking and digestibility.
- โUsing smoked pork ribs adds a deep, smoky flavor that is characteristic of this dish.
- โAdjust the amount of paprika to your spice preference.
- โThis dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
โจ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- For a vegetarian version, omit the pork ribs and use vegetable broth. Consider adding smoked tofu or mushrooms for extra flavor.
- Add a chopped bell pepper along with the other vegetables for added sweetness and color.
- A splash of red wine vinegar or a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar can be added in the last 30 minutes of cooking for a touch of acidity.