Maneštra (Istrian Croatian Bean and Corn Soup)

Maneštra is a thick bean and vegetable soup from Croatia’s Istrian peninsula, where Mediterranean and Central European flavors meet. Cured meat, beans, and cornmeal make it hearty enough for a full meal.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (200g) dried borlotti (cranberry) beans, soaked overnight
• 6 oz (170g) smoked pork ribs or pancetta, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 potatoes, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 6 cups (1.4L) water or broth
• 1/3 cup (50g) fine cornmeal (polenta)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the beans
   Drain the soaked beans and simmer in fresh water for 45 minutes until nearly tender. Drain and set aside.
2. Build the base
   Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and cook for 8 minutes until softened.
3. Add meat and simmer
   Stir in the smoked pork, garlic, and bay leaf, then add the water or broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 30 minutes.
4. Add beans and potatoes
   Stir in the cooked beans and diced potatoes. Simmer for another 20 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
5. Thicken with cornmeal
   Slowly whisk in the cornmeal, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Simmer for 10 more minutes until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.

Maneštra thickens as it sits, so thin with a little water or broth when reheating leftovers.