Introduction
Portuguese Bean Soup is a warm and hearty dish that’s full of flavor. It’s a traditional soup from Hawaii, but it was inspired by Portuguese immigrants who brought their cooking style to the islands. This soup is rich, thick, and packed with beans, sausage, vegetables, and spices. It’s perfect for cold days or when you just want something comforting and filling.
The best part? You don’t need to be a professional chef to make it! With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can cook this delicious soup at home—even if you’re just starting to learn how to cook. So let’s dive into the recipe and see how you can make your own Portuguese Bean Soup!
Ingredients – Portuguese Bean Soup
Here is a list of ingredients you will need to make Portuguese Bean Soup. You can find most of them in your local grocery store.
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup kidney beans (dried or canned)
- 1/2 pound smoked ham hock or ham bone
- 1/2 pound Portuguese sausage (like linguiça or chorizo), sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
- 1 cup cabbage, chopped
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth (or water)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: macaroni or elbow pasta (about 1 cup, cooked separately)
Step-by-Step Process – Portuguese Bean Soup
Let’s break it down into simple steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Beans
If you’re using dried kidney beans, soak them in water overnight. Then boil them for about 1 hour or until soft. If you’re using canned beans, you can skip this step. Just drain and rinse them before using.
Step 2: Cook the Meat
In a large soup pot, heat the vegetable oil on medium heat. Add the ham hock and sliced Portuguese sausage. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the sausage starts to brown. This gives the soup a rich, smoky flavor.
Step 3: Add the Aromatics
Now add chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onions are soft and smell good.
Step 4: Add the Veggies
Add the chopped carrots, celery, and potatoes into the pot. Stir everything together and cook for another 5 minutes.
Step 5: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and chicken broth. Bring everything to a boil. Then lower the heat to a simmer and cook for 30 minutes. This allows all the flavors to mix well.
Step 6: Add the Beans and Cabbage
Now add your cooked or canned kidney beans and chopped cabbage. Stir well. Continue simmering for another 20-30 minutes until all the veggies are soft.
Step 7: Optional – Add Pasta
If you like, you can add cooked macaroni to the soup. It makes it even more filling. Just stir it in during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Step 8: Season and Serve
Taste your soup. Add salt and pepper as needed. Take out the ham hock, shred any meat off the bone, and put the meat back into the soup. Serve hot in bowls. Enjoy it with a slice of bread or rice!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 – 400 kcal |
| Protein | 18 – 22 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30 – 35 g |
| Fat | 18 – 22 g |
| Fiber | 7 – 9 g |
| Sugar | 6 – 8 g |
| Sodium | 900 – 1100 mg |
| Vitamin A | 45% of daily value |
| Vitamin C | 35% of daily value |
| Iron | 15% of daily value |
| Calcium | 10% of daily value |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! You can skip the meat and use vegetable broth instead. Add extra beans or tofu for protein. The soup will still be tasty and healthy.
Q2: What kind of sausage should I use?
Portuguese sausage (called linguiça) is traditional. If you can’t find it, use chorizo or any smoked sausage. Even turkey sausage works well.
Q3: How long can I store the soup?
You can keep Portuguese Bean Soup in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months.
Q4: Can I use canned beans instead of dried ones?
Absolutely! Canned kidney beans save time. Just rinse and drain them before using.
Q5: Is this soup spicy?
It depends on the sausage you use. Some sausages are spicy, and some are mild. You can control the spice by choosing your sausage wisely.
Final Thoughts
Portuguese Bean Soup is more than just a soup—it’s a bowl full of comfort and culture. With its blend of beans, meats, veggies, and spices, it brings the best of Portuguese and Hawaiian flavors together. It’s great for family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you need something warm and satisfying.
The best part? It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and full of healthy ingredients. Whether you enjoy it with bread, rice, or all by itself, one thing is sure—this soup will make your taste buds happy!
So, next time you’re in the mood for a hearty homemade dish, give Portuguese Bean Soup a try. You might just find a new favorite.
