There’s something truly comforting about a bubbling pot of Cuban White Bean Soup filling the kitchen with its warm, rich aroma. On a chilly evening, when the wind howls outside, I find solace in the simple act of simmering dried white beans with smoky ham hocks and savory spices. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a heartfelt embrace, a nostalgic reminder of family gatherings and lively conversations around the table.
When I stumbled upon this recipe while exploring traditional Cuban cuisine, I knew I had found a treasure. With just a handful of ingredients—many of which you might already have stashed away—you can create a dish that impresses friends and family alike. Best of all, this soup is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor and nourishment, making it the perfect antidote to mundane fast food.
So, let’s gather our ingredients and dive into a bowl of Cuba’s soul-warming goodness. Cooking this Cuban White Bean Soup will transform your kitchen into a place of delicious discovery!
Why is Cuban White Bean Soup a Must-Try?
Warmth and Comfort: This Cuban White Bean Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy evenings and family gatherings.
Flavor Explosion: The rich combination of smoky ham hocks, aromatic onions, and garlic creates an unforgettable taste experience.
Easy Preparation: With minimal prep and a simple process, you can whip up a dish that feels gourmet without the stress.
Health Benefits: Packed with protein and fiber, this soup not only fills you up but nourishes you too.
Crowd Pleaser: Whether you’re feeding a family or entertaining friends, this hearty soup will leave everyone craving more!
Cuban White Bean Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- Dried white beans – These are the heart of the dish; Great Northern beans are perfect for soaking up flavors.
- Water – The essential liquid that brings the soup together.
- Bay leaves – Add a subtle depth of flavor while the soup simmers.
- Salt pork – Provides a salty, smoky essence that enhances the overall taste.
- Smoked ham hocks – Not only delicious, but they also infuse the broth with rich, meaty flavors.
For the Aromatics
- Olive oil – The perfect fat for sautéing the onions and garlic to golden perfection.
- White onion – Brings a gentle sweetness and depth to the soup.
- Garlic – Freshly minced, it adds an irresistible aroma and flavor note.
For Seasoning
- Dried oregano – Enhances the soup with a hint of herbaceous goodness.
- Ground cumin – Introduces a warm, earthy flavor that’s essential in Cuban cuisine.
- Kosher salt – Season to taste; allows you to control the saltiness of the dish.
- Black pepper – Freshly ground adds a delightful kick.
This Cuban White Bean Soup is not just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that’s easy to whip up and full of heart!
How to Make Cuban White Bean Soup
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Gather the ingredients. Start with your soaked white beans and the flavorful additions that will soon transform this dish into a comforting bowl of goodness.
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Drain and rinse the soaked white beans. This step helps ensure a cleaner flavor in your soup, removing any residual starch from soaking.
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Combine the beans, water, bay leaves, salt pork, and ham hocks in a large soup pot or Dutch oven. Bring to a boil over medium heat, letting those delightful flavors meld together.
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Reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and allow your soup to simmer for 1 1/2 hours, filling your home with an irresistible aroma.
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Remove the salt pork and discard it. This will ensure your soup isn’t overly salty, letting the other flavors shine.
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Take out the ham hocks, shred the meat, and discard the fat and bones. This step adds a smoky meatiness to your soup that’s simply delicious.
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Return the shredded meat back into the pot. Stir it in, ensuring that every spoonful is rich in flavor.
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Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Sauté the minced onions and garlic until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes, then whisk away a little more of your worries.
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Stir the onion-garlic mixture into the soup. Add the oregano, cumin, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer over low heat for an additional 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to harmonize beautifully.
Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Cuban White Bean Soup
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Soaking Beans: Make sure to soak the dried white beans overnight; this not only softens them but also helps reduce cooking time.
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Smoky Flavor: Don’t skip the salt pork and ham hocks! They add essential richness and depth to your Cuban White Bean Soup, making it truly authentic.
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Sautéing Aromatics: Sauté the onions and garlic until they’re golden and soft. This step is crucial for building the soup’s flavor foundation.
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Time For Simmering: Allow the soup to simmer gently for at least 1 1/2 hours. Rushing this step can result in undercooked beans.
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Taste Test: Always taste your soup before serving. Balance the seasoning with salt and pepper to ensure every bowl is bursting with flavor.
Cuban White Bean Soup Variations
Feel free to make this comforting dish your own with these flavorful twists and swaps!
- Vegetarian: Substitute salt pork and ham hocks with smoked paprika and additional veggies for depth without the meat.
- Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes during the sautéing phase for a zesty heat boost.
- Herby Freshness: Incorporate fresh cilantro or parsley at the end to brighten the flavor and add a delightful pop of color.
- Creamy Texture: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream just before serving for a luxurious, creamy finish.
- Canned Beans: For a quicker option, use two cans of drained white beans, reducing simmering time to 30 minutes.
- Grain Addition: Add cooked quinoa or rice for added texture and to make the soup even more filling and hearty.
- Smoky Flavor Boost: Use smoked sausage slices instead of ham hocks to enhance the smokiness of the dish while adding a different flavor profile.
- Zesty Citrus: A squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving will brighten the whole dish and tantalize your taste buds!
These variations invite you to explore and create your dream bowl of this soul-warming soup. Happy cooking!
Storage Tips for Cuban White Bean Soup
Room Temperature: If you plan to eat your soup quickly, it can sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours before needing refrigeration.
Fridge: Store the Cuban White Bean Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed.
Freezer: You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat the soup on the stove over low heat until warmed through. Stir occasionally to maintain the creamy texture and flavors.
What to Serve with Cuban White Bean Soup?
When you ladle up a bowl of rich, flavorful Cuban White Bean Soup, it’s the perfect opportunity to create a memorable meal experience for family and friends.
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Savory Cornbread: The warm, slightly sweet cornbread complements the soup beautifully by adding a lovely texture contrast. Perfect for soaking up every delicious drop!
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Fresh Avocado Salad: Crisp greens and creamy avocado provide a refreshing contrast, enhancing the soup’s rich flavors. Drizzled with a zesty lime dressing, it brightens up your plate!
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Crispy Plantains: These golden bites deliver a delightful crunch and sweet flavor that pairs wonderfully with the hearty soup. Serve them as a side for an authentic Cuban touch.
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Garlic Butter Rice: The fragrant grains, infused with garlic, are a perfect base for enjoying the soup’s robust flavors. Creamy and comforting, this combo feels like a warm hug.
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Zesty Cucumber Salsa: Chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, and cilantro create a fresh salsa that cuts through the soup’s richness. Add a hint of lime for an extra zing that elevates the meal.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a fruity Pinot Grigio pairs really well, balancing the savory elements of the soup while keeping your taste buds refreshed.
Each of these sides elevates your Cuban White Bean Soup experience, making it a full, satisfying meal that’ll have everyone gathering around the table for seconds!
Make Ahead Options
These Cuban White Bean Soup is ideal for meal prep, allowing you to savor its rich flavors even on the busiest of nights! You can soak and rinse the white beans up to 24 hours in advance, which saves precious time on cooking day. Additionally, you can sauté the onions and garlic ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, simply combine all the prepped ingredients with the water, bay leaves, salt pork, and ham hocks, bring to a boil, and finish cooking just as you normally would. This way, your hearty soup retains all its comforting essence while allowing you to enjoy a homemade meal with minimal effort.
Cuban White Bean Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of beans should I use for Cuban White Bean Soup?
Absolutely! I recommend using dried white beans such as Great Northern or cannellini beans because they have a lovely creamy texture that complements the smoky flavors of the dish beautifully. Always make sure to soak them overnight for optimal results!
How should I store leftover Cuban White Bean Soup?
For quick consumption, you can let your soup sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours before transferring it to an airtight container. In the fridge, your Cuban White Bean Soup will be good for up to 3 days. Just remember to reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it from becoming too thick.
Can I freeze Cuban White Bean Soup?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely. Then, transfer it to freezer-safe containers, leaving about an inch of space at the top to allow for expansion. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it on the stove!
What if my soup turns out too salty?
If your Cuban White Bean Soup ends up too salty, don’t worry! You can add diced potatoes or an extra cup of water to dilute the saltiness. Let it simmer for a few more minutes until the potatoes are tender, and you should find that the flavors balance out better.
Are there any dietary considerations for Cuban White Bean Soup?
Very! If you’re cooking for vegetarians or vegans, you can easily modify this recipe by substituting the salt pork and ham hocks with smoked paprika or liquid smoke for that smoky flavor. Just make sure to check for allergens such as beans, pork, or gluten if you’re catering to different dietary needs!
How do I know when the beans are properly cooked?
To ensure the beans are properly cooked, they should be tender yet hold their shape without being mushy. I often taste a few beans after the 1 ½ hour simmer and if they’re still firm, just give them another 10-15 minutes and check again. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on the beans and your kitchen setup!
Comforting Cuban White Bean Soup for Soul-Warming Meals
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Gather the ingredients.
- Drain and rinse the soaked white beans.
- Combine the beans, water, bay leaves, salt pork, and ham hocks in a large soup pot. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let simmer for 1 1/2 hours.
- Remove the salt pork and discard.
- Take out the ham hocks, shred the meat, and discard the fat.
- Return the shredded meat to the pot.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet and sauté the onions and garlic until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Stir the onion-garlic mixture into the soup with oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Simmer for an additional 15 minutes.
- Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.