Portuguese Bean Soup: Incredible 1 Dish

Name: Portuguese Bean Soup: Incredible 1 Dish
Prep time: PT-491798H33M2S
Cook time: PT-491798H33M2S
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: Portuguese
Ingredients: 1 lb Portuguese sausage (or smoked sausage); 1 lb pork shoulder, cubed; 2 cups mixed dried beans (such as red, black, and white beans), soaked overnight; 1 large onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 stalks celery, chopped; 2 medium potatoes, diced; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

by Fatima Garcia

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22 de January de 2026

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Portuguese Bean Soup Incredible has been a comforting staple in my family for generations, and I’m so excited to share this Portuguese Bean Soup Recipe with you. There’s something magical about the aroma that fills my kitchen as it simmers – a rich, savory perfume of spiced sausage, tender pork, and earthy beans. This isn’t just any soup; it’s a bowl of pure comfort that warms you from the inside out. I remember my grandmother stirring this pot, her hands moving with practiced ease, and the result was always a deep, satisfying flavor. You’ll soon discover why is Portuguese Bean Soup incredible; it’s a dish that truly nourishes the soul. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Incredible Portuguese Bean Soup

The flavor is unbelievably rich and satisfying – a truly Delicious Portuguese Bean Soup.
It’s surprisingly simple to prepare, making it an ideal weeknight meal.
Packed with protein and fiber, it’s a nourishing and healthy choice.
It’s incredibly budget-friendly, using affordable ingredients to create a filling meal.
This Hearty Portuguese Bean Soup is a crowd-pleaser that the whole family will adore.
The aroma as it cooks is simply divine, promising a comforting experience.
It’s a versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite spices.
Leftovers taste even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.

Authentic Portuguese Bean Soup Ingredients

Gathering these ingredients is the first step to making an Authentic Portuguese Bean Soup. The star is the 1 lb Portuguese sausage (or smoked sausage); its distinctive smoky, peppery flavor is key. I also love adding 1 lb pork shoulder, cubed for extra richness. For that unmistakable texture and heartiness, you’ll need 2 cups mixed dried beans (such as red, black, and white beans), which should be soaked overnight. Don’t forget the aromatic base: 1 large onion, chopped, and 2 cloves garlic, minced. The foundation of the broth comes from 4 cups chicken broth and 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes. Fresh vegetables like 2 carrots, sliced, 2 stalks celery, chopped, and 2 medium potatoes, diced add sweetness and body. Finally, pantry staples like 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 bay leaf, and salt and pepper to taste round out the incredible flavor profile. If you’re making a Portuguese Sausage Bean Soup, this list ensures you capture that classic taste.

How to Make Portuguese Bean Soup

Making this Easy Portuguese Bean Soup Recipe is a straightforward process that rewards you with incredible flavor. It all starts with preparing your ingredients and getting your pot ready for a delightful cooking experience. You’ll find that following these steps makes this Traditional Portuguese Bean Soup accessible even for beginners, and some simple Portuguese Bean Soup cooking tips will elevate your final dish.

Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, start by browning the 1 lb Portuguese sausage (or smoked sausage) in a large pot over medium heat. Cook until it’s nicely browned, then remove it and set it aside, leaving those delicious drippings in the pot.
Step 2: Next, add the 1 lb pork shoulder, cubed to the same pot. Sear the pork on all sides until it develops a lovely golden-brown crust. Once browned, remove the pork and place it with the sausage.
Step 3: Now it’s time for the aromatics. Add the 1 large onion, chopped, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 2 carrots, sliced, and 2 stalks celery, chopped to the pot. Sauté these vegetables until they begin to soften and release their fragrant scents, which should take about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Pour in the 4 cups chicken broth and stir in the 2 cups mixed dried beans that you soaked overnight. Make sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot – that’s where a lot of the flavor hides!
Step 5: Add the 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, and the 1 bay leaf. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Return the browned sausage and pork to the pot. Bring the entire mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the beans are wonderfully tender. The aroma filling your kitchen at this stage is truly amazing.
Step 7: Stir in the 2 medium potatoes, diced. Continue to cook, covered, for another 20-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Step 8: Finally, taste your creation. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Remember to remove and discard the bay leaf before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Portuguese Bean Soup

I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that really elevate this soup from good to truly exceptional. These tips will help you achieve the most incredible flavor and texture.

Soaking your dried beans overnight is crucial for even cooking and a smoother texture.
Don’t skip browning the meats; this step creates a deep, savory foundation for the soup.
Taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process, especially before adding the potatoes.
For an even richer flavor, consider using a smoked ham hock along with the sausage and pork.

What’s the secret to perfect Portuguese Bean Soup flavor?

The secret to the incredible Portuguese Bean Soup flavor lies in building layers of taste. Browning the meats well and sautéing the aromatics until fragrant are non-negotiable. Also, simmering slowly allows all those wonderful ingredients to meld beautifully. For more on building flavor in soups, check out this guide on soup making techniques.

Can I make Portuguese Bean Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup is a fantastic candidate for making ahead. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Just cool it completely, store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and reheat gently on the stovetop.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Portuguese Bean Soup?

A common pitfall is not soaking the beans long enough, leading to uneven cooking. Another mistake is overcooking the potatoes, making them mushy. Ensure you add them towards the end of the simmering time for perfect tenderness. Learn more about proper bean preparation.

Best Ways to Serve Portuguese Bean Soup

Serving this hearty soup is all about creating a complete, satisfying meal. I love to ladle generous portions into warm bowls, making sure everyone gets a good mix of beans, sausage, and potatoes. For a truly authentic experience, consider pairing it with a slice of crusty bread – perfect for sopping up every last drop of that flavorful broth. If you’re looking for something a bit more traditional, you could serve it alongside a light salad or even as a starter before a main course. While this soup is robust on its own, you might enjoy it with a side of greens, almost like a heartier version of Caldo Verde Portuguese Bean Soup or a more substantial take on Portuguese Kale and Bean Soup. It’s a versatile dish that truly shines!

Portuguese Bean Soup: Incredible 1 Dish - Portuguese Bean Soup Incredible - additional detail

Portuguese Bean Soup Nutrition Facts

Per serving (recipe makes 6 servings):

Calories: 370 kcal
Fat: [Data Missing]
Saturated Fat: [Data Missing]
Protein: 22g
Carbohydrates: [Data Missing]
Fiber: [Data Missing]
Sugar: [Data Missing]
Sodium: [Data Missing]

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more information on nutritional data, consult a registered dietitian.

How to Store and Reheat Portuguese Bean Soup

This Hearty Portuguese Bean Soup is fantastic for meal prep, as its flavors actually deepen and improve overnight. Once you’ve finished cooking, allow the soup to cool completely before thinking about storage. This is important to prevent bacterial growth. I usually let it sit on the counter for about an hour, stirring occasionally, then transfer it to the refrigerator. For refrigeration, store the cooled soup in airtight containers. It will keep well in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it even longer, this soup freezes beautifully! Transfer cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, making sure to remove as much air as possible. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, the best way to reheat is gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions About Portuguese Bean Soup

What is Portuguese Bean Soup?

Portuguese Bean Soup, often called “Feijoada” in its homeland, is a robust and flavorful stew featuring beans, various meats like sausage and pork, and aromatic vegetables. It’s a dish celebrated for its hearty nature and comforting taste, making it a beloved meal worldwide, especially in places like Hawaii where it’s a local favorite. Many consider it the best Portuguese bean soup due to its deep, satisfying flavor profile. Learn more about traditional Portuguese cuisine.

Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?

While dried beans offer the best texture and flavor for an authentic experience, you can use canned beans in a pinch. If you opt for canned, rinse and drain two 15-ounce cans of mixed beans thoroughly and add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking, along with the potatoes, to prevent them from becoming too mushy.

What makes this Portuguese Bean Soup recipe so good?

This Portuguese Bean Soup recipe is fantastic because it balances savory meats with earthy beans and aromatic spices. The key is the slow simmering process, which allows all the ingredients to meld together beautifully, creating a complex and deeply satisfying flavor. Many people consider this the ultimate Portuguese Bean Soup review because it’s so consistently delicious and comforting. For more recipe reviews, explore our site.

How can I make a vegetarian Portuguese Bean Soup?

To create a vegetarian version, simply omit the Portuguese sausage and pork shoulder. You can replace the chicken broth with a good quality vegetable broth. Adding extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini, and perhaps a smoked paprika for depth, can help maintain that hearty, savory character without the meat. This way, you can still enjoy a wonderful, meat-free Portuguese Bean Soup.

Variations of Portuguese Bean Soup You Can Try

While this classic recipe is amazing, I love experimenting with different twists to keep things exciting! Here are a few ideas to create your own unique versions of this comforting soup.

Simple Portuguese Bean Soup: For a quicker meal, you can use canned beans. Rinse and drain two 15-ounce cans of mixed beans and add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking, along with the potatoes. This offers a similar hearty flavor with less prep time.
Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño along with the onions and garlic. You could also stir in a dash of your favorite hot sauce just before serving for an extra zing.
Vegetarian Delight: To make this a vegetarian or vegan dish, swap the chicken broth for a rich vegetable broth and omit the meats. You can add extra vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms, and a touch of smoked paprika can add depth to replace the savory meat flavor.
Slow Cooker Version: For a hands-off approach, combine all ingredients (except potatoes) in your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Add the potatoes during the last hour of cooking. This makes for an incredibly easy and flavorful meal.

About the Author

Fatima Garcia