Ciorbă de fasole cu afumătură – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Country: 
Romania Servings: 4-6
Romania Servings: 4-6Ciorbă de fasole cu afumătură is a traditional Romanian bean soup renowned for its rich flavor and comforting qualities. This hearty dish combines tender beans with smoked meats, creating a symphony of flavors that whisper tales of Romanian culinary heritage. Often enjoyed as a main course, this soup warms the soul and satisfies the appetite with its robust taste and aromatic appeal. Rooted in rural cooking traditions, ciorbă de fasole cu afumătură has become a staple of Romanian households.
Ingredients
- Dried white beans – 2 cups / 400 g
- Smoked pork ribs – 1 lb / 450 g
- Carrots – 2 medium, diced
- Onion – 1 large, chopped
- Celery stalks – 2, sliced
- Garlic cloves – 3, minced
- Bay leaves – 2
- Thyme – 1 tsp / 1 g
- Salt – to taste
- Black pepper – to taste
- Tomato paste – 2 tbsp / 30 g
- Water – 8 cups / 1.9 liters
- Parsley – a handful, chopped
Instructions
- Rinse and soak the dried beans in water overnight, then drain.
- In a large pot, add the smoked pork ribs and cover with 8 cups of water. Bring to a boil and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Add the soaked beans to the pot along with carrots, onion, celery, garlic, bay leaves, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
- Simmer the mixture for about 1 to 1.5 hours until the beans are tender.
- Stir in the tomato paste and let the soup cook for another 15 minutes.
- Adjust the seasoning, then remove from heat and discard the bay leaves.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Substitutions
- Smoked pork ribs -> Smoked turkey legs
- Dried white beans -> Canned white beans (adjust cooking time)
- Thyme -> Rosemary
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Soak beans with a pinch of baking soda to reduce cooking time.
- Use smoked paprika for added depth in place of regular paprika.
- Add a splash of vinegar before serving to enhance flavors.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
