Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that transforms humble ingredients into a mouthwatering masterpiece! This Spam Western Bean Soup is not just another recipe—it's a hearty, flavor-packed journey that combines the iconic American favorite, Spam, with rich beans and aromatic spices. Perfect for those chilly evenings or when you're craving a quick, satisfying meal that will warm your soul and tantalize your palate, this soup is about to become your new comfort food obsession.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can Spam, diced
- 1 can kidney beans, drained
- 1 can pinto beans, drained
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 can of Spam, 1 can of kidney beans, 1 can of pinto beans, 1 onion, 1 bell pepper, 4 cups of beef broth, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Dice the Spam into small cubes, and set aside. Chop the onion and bell pepper into small pieces for even cooking.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced Spam and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until it starts to brown slightly.
- Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the pot with the Spam. Sauté the mixture for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and the onions become translucent.
- Once the vegetables are cooked, add the drained kidney beans and pinto beans to the pot. Stir to combine all the ingredients well.
- Pour in the 4 cups of beef broth, and stir in the cumin. Bring the soup to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 25 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together.
- As the soup simmers, taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to your preference.
- After 25 minutes, remove the pot from heat. Let the soup cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the Spam Western Bean Soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your hearty meal!
Tips
- Spam Searing Secret: For maximum flavor, make sure to sauté your Spam until it gets slightly crispy and golden brown. This caramelization adds depth to your soup's overall taste.
- Bean Preparation: While canned beans are convenient, if you have time, consider using freshly cooked beans for an even more authentic texture.
- Broth Boost: Use a high-quality beef broth or even consider adding a splash of red wine for an extra layer of complexity.
- Spice It Up: Don't be afraid to experiment with additional spices like smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce to personalize your soup.
- Garnish Game: Top your soup with fresh chopped cilantro, green onions, or a dollop of sour cream to elevate the presentation and add fresh flavors.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This soup tastes even better the next day, so consider making a larger batch for delicious leftovers.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 40mg
