By RichardObradovic | Balkan | Apr 30, 2025
🍖 A hearty Balkan classic! This slow-cooked white bean stew with smoked ribs is rich, comforting, and full of deep, smoky flavor — perfect for cozy days.
🫘 400g white beans (pre-soaked overnight)
🧅 1 large onion, chopped
🧄 2 garlic cloves, minced
🥕 1 carrot, chopped
🌶️ 1 tsp sweet paprika
🍖 500g smoked pork ribs (cut into smaller pieces)
🛢️ 2 tbsp sunflower oil or lard
🧂 Salt and pepper, to taste
🌿 1 bay leaf
💧 1.5L water
Optional thickening (roux):
🛢️ 1 tbsp oil
🌾 1 tbsp flour
🌶️ 1 tsp paprika
1. 🫘 Soak beans overnight, rinse and drain before cooking.
2. 🍖 In a large pot, heat oil. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3. 🥕 Add garlic and carrot, stir briefly.
4. 🧂 Add smoked ribs, paprika, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Stir well.
5. 💧 Pour in water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, until beans and ribs are tender.
6. 🌾 For thickening: In a small pan, heat oil, add flour, stir until golden, then add paprika and immediately pour into the stew. Mix well.
7. 🍽️ Let simmer another 5–10 minutes. Serve hot with fresh bread or pickled sides.