Blizzard Of 1993 Soup
Blizzard Of 1993 Soup is a hearty, smoky bean stew enriched with ham hock, hot sausage, and aromatic herbs. Its robust flavors and comforting warmth make it perfect for chilly days or gatherings, offering a satisfying blend of smoky, savory, and tangy notes that appeal to meat lovers and soup enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak the navy beans in water for several hours.
- Wash and place the soaked beans in a large pot, then cover with 3 quarts of water.
- Add the onions and garlic, both slightly browned in butter, to the pot.
- Season with salt to taste.
- Add the smoked ham hock, parsley, bay leaves, juice of half a lemon, and several drops of Tabasco sauce.
- Cover the pot and cook slowly for 3 to 4 hours.
- Add the browned smoked hot sausage and pepper to taste, then cook for about 45 minutes longer.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the beans after cooking. If you don't have navy beans, great substitutes include cannellini or pinto beans. For a vegetarian version, skip the ham hock and sausage, and add smoked paprika for depth of flavor. You can also enhance the dish with vegetables like carrots or celery, similar to Grandma's Goulash.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Blizzard of 1993 Soup with crusty bread or cornbread for a hearty meal. Consider pairing it with a simple side salad or pickled vegetables to balance the flavors. A touch of fresh parsley on top adds a nice color and freshness. This dish is perfect for chilly days and is similar in warmth to the comforting taste of The Country Bake Beans.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much. This soup also freezes well; just ensure it's in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Blizzard Of 1993 Soup contains roughly 141 calories, with 6g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (18% of the Daily Value), iron (15% of the Daily Value), and protein (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 785mg per serving (34% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried beans instead of canned for this recipe?
Yes, dried beans are perfect for this recipe. Just soak them for several hours or overnight before cooking to ensure they soften properly during the long simmer. Using dried beans enhances the flavor and texture of the soup, making it heartier and more satisfying.
What if I don’t have a ham hock?
If you don’t have a ham hock, you can substitute it with smoked turkey legs or omit it entirely for a vegetarian version. Adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke can help achieve a similar smoky flavor without the meat.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add more heat, you can increase the amount of Tabasco sauce to your liking. Alternatively, include diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes during cooking for an extra kick. Adjust the spiciness gradually to find your perfect balance.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).