Imagine a steaming bowl of rustic Croatian goodness that tells a story with every spoonful - welcome to Istarska Manestra, the ultimate peasant soup that transforms humble ingredients into a culinary masterpiece! This isn't just a recipe; it's a journey through Croatia's rich gastronomic heritage, where every bite whispers tales of family, tradition, and the warmth of Mediterranean cooking. Prepare to fall in love with a dish that's more than food - it's an experience that will make your taste buds dance and your soul feel instantly at home.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: Croatian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried beans, soaked overnight
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 potatoes, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Drain the dried beans that have been soaked overnight and rinse thoroughly under cold water.
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent and slightly golden, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add diced carrots, potatoes, and zucchini to the pot. Stir and cook for 3-4 minutes to slightly soften the vegetables.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes and add the pre-soaked beans. Fill the pot with enough water to cover all ingredients by about 2 inches.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, partially covered, for approximately 45-50 minutes or until beans are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Once beans are soft and vegetables are cooked through, remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes.
- Ladle into serving bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
- Serve hot with crusty bread for a traditional Croatian dining experience.
Tips
- • Soak your beans overnight to ensure perfect tenderness and reduce cooking time • Use a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent burning and ensure even heat distribution • Don't rush the sautéing of onions - golden, caramelized onions build deep flavor • Fresh parsley is non-negotiable - it adds a bright, fresh finish to the hearty soup • For an authentic touch, serve with crusty bread to soak up every delicious drop • If possible, use dried beans instead of canned for a more authentic texture • Let the soup rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking to allow flavors to fully meld • This soup tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make extra!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 124kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
