Green bean soup

Green Bean Soup – A Fresh and Healthy Delight

Green bean soup is one of those recipes that brings a touch of spring to your plate, no matter the season. It is a light soup, full of vitamins and flavors, that can be enjoyed both warm and cold, and will delight you with its vibrant taste. This simple and quick recipe will take you on a flavorful culinary journey.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

- 1 kg fresh green beans
- 1 medium onion
- 1 large carrot
- 1 parsley root
- 1 celery root
- 1 parsnip root
- 1 red bell pepper
- 2-3 tablespoons pepper paste
- 1 cup broth
- Sunflower oil (or olive oil, as preferred)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Dried or fresh thyme
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Preparation

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by cleaning the vegetables. Finely chop the onion and grate the carrot. Peel the roots (parsley, celery, and parsnip) and cut them into small cubes. Cut the bell pepper into cubes. These preparations are essential to allow the vegetables to cook evenly and integrate perfectly into the soup.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a deep pot, add 2-3 tablespoons of oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the grated carrot and sauté for about 5 minutes, until it becomes slightly soft and releases its aroma. Then, add the chopped onion and the bell pepper cubes, continuing to sauté for another 3-4 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent.

3. Flavoring the soup: After the vegetables have been sautéed, add the pepper paste and let it cook for another 2 minutes. This will add an intense flavor and vibrant color to your soup.

4. Boiling the base: Pour water into the pot, enough to cover the vegetables, and add salt and pepper to taste. Let it boil until the water starts to bubble, at which point we will add the remaining ingredients.

5. Adding the vegetables and beans: Meanwhile, clean the green beans by trimming the ends and cutting them into suitable-sized pieces. Once the water is boiling, add the root vegetable cubes and the green beans. Also add thyme, to provide a fragrant and slightly spicy taste.

6. Final boiling: Let the soup boil over medium heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until all the vegetables are cooked but still crunchy. Check periodically to ensure it doesn't run out of water.

7. Finishing the soup: When the vegetables are ready, add the cup of broth and adjust the seasonings if necessary. Let the soup boil for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.

8. Serving: Finally, add the chopped fresh parsley and mix well. The soup can be served warm, topped with a spoonful of sour cream for added creaminess and flavor.

Practical tips

- Fresh vs. frozen beans: If you don't have fresh green beans, you can also use frozen beans, but make sure to add them in the last 10-15 minutes of boiling, so they don't get too soft.
- Variations: You can also add other vegetables, such as zucchini or potatoes, to vary the recipe. These will add texture and a different flavor.
- Suitable drinks: Green bean soup pairs wonderfully with a dry white wine or a fresh lemonade, which balances the slightly tangy taste of the soup.

Nutritional information

Green bean soup is an excellent choice for a light and healthy lunch. It is rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, with a relatively low calorie content, making it ideal for a balanced diet. On average, a serving of soup contains about 150-200 calories, depending on the amount of oil and sour cream added.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of beans?
- While the original recipe uses green beans, you can experiment with other types of beans, but the cooking time will vary.

2. How long can I keep the soup?
- The soup can be stored in the refrigerator in airtight containers for up to 3 days. The flavor will intensify as it cools.

3. Is the soup suitable for vegans?
- Yes, this recipe is completely vegan as long as you don't add sour cream.

A personal note

This soup reminds me of the moments spent in my grandmother's kitchen, where the aroma of fresh vegetables blended with the warmth of family time. It is a dish that not only warms your soul but also brings a sense of belonging. I encourage you to try this recipe and personalize it to your taste! Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 1 kg green beans, 1 onion, 1 large carrot, parsley root, celery, and parsnip, 1 red bell pepper, pepper paste, 1 cup broth, salt, pepper, oil, thyme, and fresh parsley

 Tags:  bean soup with pods