Portuguese Bean Soup from Zippy's features tender white beans, savory Portuguese sausage, and fresh vegetables simmered in a flavorful broth, delivering a comforting and hearty meal with a rich, aromatic taste.
Equipments
- Large soup pot
- Cutting board
- Chef's knife
- Wooden spoon or ladle
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Colander (for rinsing beans/veggies)
- Can opener (if using canned beans/tomatoes)
- Mixing bowls
Ingredients
- 1 lb Portuguese sausage
- 1 lb smoked ham hock
- 1 large onion
- 3 cloves garlic
- 2 large carrots
- 3 ribs celery
- 1 green bell pepper
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans
- 1 (15 oz) can white beans
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 2 medium potatoes
- 1 cup macaroni pasta
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Using both Portuguese sausage and smoked ham hock provides a deep, smoky flavor essential for an authentic Portuguese Bean Soup. Fresh vegetables like onion, carrots, celery, and green bell pepper enhance the soup's aromatic profile while canned beans and tomatoes add convenience without sacrificing taste. Make sure to rinse canned beans and vegetables using a colander to reduce excess sodium and improve texture. The combination of tomato paste and soy sauce balances acidity and umami, enriching the broth's savory depth. Your effort in preparing Portuguese Bean Soup from Zippy's copycat menu will result in a comforting, hearty meal rich in layers of flavor.
Instructions
- Dice Portuguese sausage; set aside.
- Remove excess fat from ham hock; set aside.
- Peel and chop onion, carrots, and potatoes.
- Mince garlic cloves.
- Slice celery ribs and green bell pepper.
- Rinse and drain canned beans.
- Heat vegetable oil in large soup pot over medium heat.
- Add sausage and ham hock; brown for several minutes.
- Add onion, garlic, carrot, celery, and bell pepper; sauté until softened.
- Stir in tomato paste; cook for 1 minute.
- Add diced tomatoes (with juice), kidney beans, white beans, chicken broth, and potatoes.
- Bring soup to a boil.
- Reduce heat to a simmer; cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add macaroni pasta and shredded cabbage.
- Continue simmering until pasta and potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
- Stir in soy sauce; season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Remove ham hock; shred any meat and return to pot.
- Discard ham hock bone.
- Taste soup; adjust seasonings if needed.
- Serve hot.
Substitution
Portuguese Bean Soup from Zippy's copycat menu combines Portuguese sausage, smoked ham hock, and a medley of fresh vegetables simmered to perfection. You can substitute the Portuguese sausage with chorizo or kielbasa if unavailable, and canned beans can replace dried ones for convenience, though cooking times will vary. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian-friendly option without compromising flavor. Macaroni pasta adds a comforting texture, but rice or other small pasta shapes work well in this recipe. Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper to suit your taste preferences during the cooking process.
Tips
Ensure to rinse canned beans thoroughly to remove excess sodium and preserve the soup's balanced flavor. Brown the Portuguese sausage and ham hock properly to develop a rich, smoky base that enhances the overall aroma. When adding pasta and cabbage, keep the heat low to prevent overcooking and maintain their texture. Remember to shred the ham hock meat back into the soup after removing the bone to maximize flavor and avoid wasting any tender meat.
Nutritions
Portuguese Bean Soup from Zippy's provides a balanced nutritional profile rich in protein from Portuguese sausage and smoked ham hock, complemented by dietary fiber and essential vitamins from white beans, cabbage, and fresh vegetables. The inclusion of potatoes and macaroni pasta offers complex carbohydrates that supply sustained energy. Your meal also delivers important minerals like iron and potassium, while the chicken broth base contributes to hydration and flavor without excessive calories. This soup is a hearty option that supports both muscle maintenance and digestive health.
Storage
Store leftover Portuguese Bean Soup in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days to maintain its rich flavors and hearty texture. For longer storage, freeze the soup in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months, ensuring to leave space for expansion. When reheating, gently warm the soup on the stove to preserve the tender beans, sausage, and vegetables, enhancing your dining experience.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute smoked ham hock with smoked turkey leg for a leaner, yet still smoky flavor. For a vegetarian twist, replace Portuguese sausage and ham hock with smoked paprika and mushrooms to maintain depth in the broth. Consider using fresh cooked beans instead of canned for a creamier texture and richer bean flavor in your Portuguese Bean Soup. Adding a splash of red wine before simmering enhances the aroma and adds complexity to the overall taste.
Allergies
Portuguese Bean Soup from Zippy's contains common allergens such as soy from the soy sauce and gluten from the macaroni pasta, which may pose risks for individuals with soy or wheat allergies. The use of Portuguese sausage and smoked ham hock introduces potential exposure to pork proteins, which some people may need to avoid. If you have allergies related to any of these ingredients, carefully check labels or consider alternative options to ensure your meal is safe.
Why this recipe?
Zippy's Portuguese Bean Soup is beloved for its rich blend of tender beans, succulent Portuguese sausage, and savory vegetables, creating a hearty and comforting meal. The soup delivers authentic island flavors that reflect Hawaiian culinary traditions, making it a unique taste experience. Your kitchen can replicate this balanced, flavorful dish that's both nutritious and satisfying, perfect for family meals or cozy gatherings. Trying the copycat recipe allows you to enjoy Zippy's iconic soup anytime with fresh ingredients tailored to your preference.