Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.):
Calories: 320 kcal
Total Fat: 14 g
Saturated Fat: 4 g
Cholesterol: 35 mg
Sodium: 750 mg
Total Carbohydrates: 30 g
Dietary Fiber: 9 g
Sugars: 4 g
Protein: 18 g
Flavor Profile and Cooking Techniques
The true charm of Portuguese Bean Soup lies in its layering of flavors and textures. The beans offer a creamy, earthy base that absorbs and enhances the tastes of the broth and spices. Smoked sausage—commonly chorizo or linguiça—adds bold, meaty notes with a subtle kick of heat and spice, depending on the variety used. Aromatics like onions and garlic infuse the broth with depth, while carrots and celery provide a gentle sweetness and balance.
The use of smoked paprika—a staple in Iberian cooking—imparts a warm, smoky undertone that distinguishes this soup from other bean-based dishes. The slow simmering process allows all these elements to meld beautifully, resulting in a bowl that’s as comforting as it is complex.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.):
Calories: 320 kcal
Total Fat: 14 g
Saturated Fat: 4 g
Cholesterol: 35 mg
Sodium: 750 mg
Total Carbohydrates: 30 g
Dietary Fiber: 9 g
Sugars: 4 g
Protein: 18 g
Flavor Profile and Cooking Techniques
The true charm of Portuguese Bean Soup lies in its layering of flavors and textures. The beans offer a creamy, earthy base that absorbs and enhances the tastes of the broth and spices. Smoked sausage—commonly chorizo or linguiça—adds bold, meaty notes with a subtle kick of heat and spice, depending on the variety used. Aromatics like onions and garlic infuse the broth with depth, while carrots and celery provide a gentle sweetness and balance.
The use of smoked paprika—a staple in Iberian cooking—imparts a warm, smoky undertone that distinguishes this soup from other bean-based dishes. The slow simmering process allows all these elements to meld beautifully, resulting in a bowl that’s as comforting as it is complex.