Stewed green beans

Green Bean Stew - A Delicious and Comforting Recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Welcome to our kitchen! Today we will prepare a simple yet flavorful recipe: green bean stew. This dish is not only tasty but also healthy, with a rich flavor that will delight the whole family. Green beans are a versatile vegetable, rich in nutrients, and the combination with onions, garlic, and tomato juice transforms it into an unforgettable dish.

The history of this recipe is closely tied to culinary traditions, often prepared during the cold season when fresh vegetables are harder to find. It can be adapted based on available ingredients, and today we will use frozen green beans, an excellent choice that retains many of its nutrients.

Ingredients:

- 700 g green beans (I used frozen beans that were blanched beforehand)
- 3 small onions
- 1 red bell pepper (or, in the cold season, 3 tablespoons of roasted pepper paste)
- Fresh celery leaves (about a handful)
- 150 ml tomato juice
- 2-3 cloves of garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4-5 tablespoons sunflower oil or olive oil
- Extra: fried eggs and smoked ham (optional)

Preparation Steps:

1. Preparing the Ingredients: Start by washing all the vegetables well. Chop the onions finely and dice the bell pepper. If you have fresh celery leaves, chop them finely.

2. Sautéing the Onions and Bell Pepper: In a large skillet, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper and sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the bell pepper softens. This is when the flavors will begin to unfold.

3. Adding Water: Pour 2 cups of water into the skillet and wait until it starts to boil. This step is essential to create a delicious sauce in which the beans will cook.

4. Cooking the Beans: When the water has started to boil, add the frozen green beans directly from the freezer. It is important not to thaw them beforehand, as this will help retain their texture better. Let the beans cook for about 15 minutes until the water reduces and the beans soften.

5. Seasoning: Add salt and pepper to taste, stirring well. Now is the time to add the tomato juice and finely chopped garlic. Let everything simmer together for 4-5 minutes for the flavors to blend and create a rich sauce.

6. Finishing the Dish: Before turning off the heat, add the finely chopped celery leaves. They will add a touch of freshness and color to your dish.

7. Optional – Thickening the Sauce: If you want a thicker sauce, you can add a tablespoon of flour mixed with the tomato sauce. Personally, I prefer the flourless version, but it is up to your preference.

8. Serving: Green bean stew can be served on its own, but for an extra flavor boost, I recommend pairing it with perfectly fried eggs and smoked ham. This combination will turn your meal into a special culinary experience.

Practical Tips:

- Choosing the Beans: If you do not have frozen beans, you can use fresh beans, but make sure to cook them first, as they will require a longer cooking time.
- Variations: You can experiment with other vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, adding them during the cooking process.
- Suitable Drinks: This dish pairs wonderfully with a glass of dry white wine or a fragrant herbal tea.

Nutritional Benefits:

Green beans are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, being rich in vitamin K, vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. They help maintain heart health and support the digestive system. This dish is ideal for a light yet filling meal, perfect for fasting or for those looking to reduce meat consumption.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use canned green beans?
- Yes, but make sure to rinse them well before use and reduce the cooking time.

2. How can I make this recipe spicier?
- Add a finely chopped hot pepper during the sautéing of the onions and bell pepper.

3. Can the dish be frozen?
- Yes, you can freeze the green bean stew, but make sure to store it in airtight containers.

I encourage you to try this green bean stew recipe, which is not only easy to prepare but also full of flavors and nutrients. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 700 g green beans - I used frozen beans that were blanched beforehand 3 small onions 1 red pepper (or in winter 3 tablespoons of roasted pepper paste) green celery leaves 150 ml tomato juice 2-3 cloves of garlic salt and pepper 4-5 tablespoons of oil Extra: eggs and smoked fillet

 Tags:  bean stew