Grah Čorba - Bean Soup
Grah Čorba is a traditional Balkan bean soup, beloved across countries such as Serbia, Bosnia, and Croatia. Its roots dive deep into the region's culinary history, showcasing a blend of simple ingredients and rich flavors that envelop the soul with warmth and nostalgia. Historically, Grah Čorba has been a staple food for families, offering nourishment and comfort, especially in colder months.
Ingredients
- Beans - 2 cups, preferably white beans
- Onion - 1 large, finely chopped
- Carrot - 2, sliced
- Celery - 2 stalks, chopped
- Garlic - 4 cloves, minced
- Smoked Ham - 200g, diced
- Bay Leaf - 2
- Paprika - 1 tsp
- Vegetable Broth - 8 cups
- Salt - to taste
- Black Pepper - to taste
- Parsley - for garnish
Preparation Steps
Preparing the Beans
Begin by soaking the beans in cold water overnight. This will ensure that they absorb enough water, reducing cooking time and improving digestibility. Before starting the soup, drain and rinse the beans thoroughly.
Chopping and Dicing
While the beans soak, use this time to chop the vegetables and meats. Finely chop the onion and garlic, and slice the carrots and celery. Dice the smoked ham into small cubes.
Cooking Process
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of oil and sauté the chopped onion until translucent. Add the garlic and stir for another minute, followed by the carrots and celery. Stir the ingredients for about 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften.
Add the Beans and Liquids
Introduce the beans to the pot, integrating them gently with the vegetable mixture. Pour the vegetable broth over the ingredients and stir in the paprika and bay leaves. Bring the soup to a boil before lowering the heat to let it simmer. It should cook for approximately 90 minutes; use a cooking timer to keep track.
Add the Meat and Seasonings
About 30 minutes before completion, add the smoked ham pieces to the mixture. Season the soup with salt and black pepper according to your taste.
Final Touches and Serving
Garnishing
Once the soup is ready, remove the bay leaves and ladle the Grah Čorba into bowls. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley to add a touch of color and fresh aroma.
How to Enjoy
Grah Čorba is best enjoyed hot, accompanied by warm, crusty bread or pogača. This meal is perfect for a family gathering or simple supper, bringing warmth and stories to the table. Pair it with a light salad for a complete meal. Remember, like many traditional soups, Grah Čorba tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together beautifully.