Bashkir-style Pear, Bean, and Bacon Stew

Ingredients

In this adaptation of the German dish "Birnen, Bohnen und Speck," we have incorporated the flavors and ingredients commonly found in Bashkir cuisine. While the original dish uses traditional German ingredients, we have replaced some of them with Bashkir counterparts to create a unique fusion. The addition of Bashkir spices and the use of local ingredients give this dish a distinct Bashkir twist. We alse have the original recipe for Birnen, Bohnen und Speck, so you can check it out.

• 4 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and diced 4 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and diced
• 2 cups (400g) white beans, soaked overnight and drained 2 cups (400g) white beans, soaked overnight and drained
• 8 slices of bacon, chopped 8 slices of bacon, chopped
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cups (470ml) vegetable broth 2 cups (470ml) vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 380 kcal / 1590 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 12g
• Protein: 15g
• Fiber: 10g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pot and set aside.
2. 2.
   In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
3. 3.
   Add the diced pears to the pot and cook for a few minutes until they start to soften.
4. 4.
   Add the soaked and drained white beans to the pot, along with the vegetable broth, ground cumin, and paprika. Stir well to combine.
5. 5.
   Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for about 1 hour, or until the beans are tender.
6. 6.
   Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, use a potato masher to slightly mash some of the beans and pears to thicken the stew.
7. 7.
   Serve the Bashkir-style Pear, Bean, and Bacon Stew hot, garnished with the crispy bacon.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Pears — Choose ripe pears that are slightly soft to the touch for the best flavor and texture.
• White beans — Soak the beans overnight to ensure they cook evenly and become tender.
• Bacon — Use thick-cut bacon for a more substantial texture and smoky flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier flavor, add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper.
• Serve the stew with crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.
• If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to partially puree the stew.

Serving advice

This stew is best served hot, straight from the pot. Garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of crispy bacon for added flavor and visual appeal.

Presentation advice

Serve the Bashkir-style Pear, Bean, and Bacon Stew in individual bowls, allowing the vibrant colors of the pears and beans to shine through. Pair it with a rustic wooden spoon for a cozy and inviting presentation.