This Hearty Croatian Bean Soup Eats Like a Stew

Gather the ingredients. The Spruce / Karen Hibbard Drain the soaked beans, rinse them, and drain again. The Spruce / Karen Hibbard Place in a large pot and add 12 cups fresh cold water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to a simmer, and skim off any foam that rises to the surface. The Spruce / Karen Hibbard Add garlic, onion, smoked sausage of choice, smoked ribs or meaty smoked ham hocks, bay leaf, salt, pepper and Vegeta seasoning powder to taste. The Spruce / Karen Hibbard Return to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer, partially covered, for 2 to 3 hours or until beans and meat are tender. Add water as needed, while cooking, stirring occasionally. The Spruce / Karen Hibbard Remove bay leaf and discard. Remove bones from rib meat or hocks and return meat to the pot. If soup isn't thick enough, continue to simmer until desired consistency is achieved. The Spruce / Karen Hibbard