Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hearty Pinto Bean and Ham Bone Soup?
It is a comforting and soul-warming soup featuring dried pinto beans, vegetables, and a savory meaty ham bone or ham hocks.
What kind of beans are used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 lb of dried pinto beans that have been rinsed and sorted.
Do I need to soak the pinto beans?
Yes, the beans should be soaked in cold water overnight and then drained before cooking.
How many ham hocks are required?
You will need 2 large, meaty ham hocks to provide rich and smoky goodness to the soup.
How many carrots are included in the recipe?
The recipe uses 6 large carrots, sliced into 1/2 inch thick rounds.
What other vegetables are used in the soup?
In addition to carrots, you will need 1 large chopped onion, 6 sliced celery ribs, and minced garlic.
What size soup kettle is recommended?
A large 8-quart soup kettle is recommended for this recipe.
How much water should I add to the pot?
You should pour in enough water to cover the ingredients by about 2 inches.
How long does the soup need to simmer?
The soup should cook partially covered for about 2 1/2 hours or until the beans are tender.
What seasoning provides the soup's flavor profile?
Paprika, minced garlic, vinegar, salt, and pepper are used for seasoning.
What is Csipetke?
Csipetke is an optional stiff dough or pinched noodle made from flour, salt, egg, and vegetable oil.
How long does the Csipetke dough need to rest?
The dough should rest for approximately 30 minutes before being added to the soup.
Is the sour cream mandatory?
No, adding 1/2 cup of sour cream is optional but recommended for added creaminess and richness.
When should I add the vinegar?
Vinegar is stirred in at the end of the cooking process along with the parsley and optional sour cream.
What should I do with the ham hocks after cooking?
Remove them from the soup, let them cool, cut the meat into bite-sized pieces, and return the meat to the pot.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the vegetables the day before to save time on the day of cooking.
What is the source of this recipe?
This recipe originates from 'Taste of Home'.
How much paprika is used?
The recipe uses 2 teaspoons of paprika.
How much parsley is needed for seasoning?
You will need 1 tablespoon of minced fresh parsley.
What type of oil is used for the dough?
1/2 tablespoon of vegetable oil is used in the dough preparation.
What are the suggested garnishes?
It is recommended to serve the soup with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
How often should I check the soup while it simmers?
You should check occasionally to add more water as necessary to keep the beans covered.
How much flour is needed for the optional noodles?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of all-purpose flour for the Csipetke.
Is this soup considered a 'slow-cooked' meal?
Yes, with a 2.5 hour simmer time and overnight bean soaking, it is a slow-cooked, hearty meal.
What tags describe this recipe?
Tags include soup, beans, ham, hearty, comfort food, cold weather, and vintage recipes.
How much vinegar is used?
The recipe specifies 2 teaspoons of vinegar.
What is the texture of the bean soup?
It offers a comforting blend of textures with tender beans, soft vegetables, and bite-sized pieces of ham.
Can I use a ham bone instead of hocks?
Yes, the description mentions using a savory meaty ham bone as an alternative to infuse flavor.
What should the consistency of the dough be?
The dough for the Csipetke should be mixed into a stiff consistency.
Is this recipe suitable for families?
Yes, it is described as an inviting and hearty meal that the whole family will love.