Bean soup

Bean Soup – A Summer Delicacy for the Soul

Bean soup is one of those recipes that combines tradition and the freshness of summer, being a light dish, full of flavor and perfect for hot days. Although it may not be everyone's favorite, bean soup has a special charm and, served cold, becomes an excellent choice for a refreshing lunch. This recipe is based on simple yet flavorful ingredients and is prepared quite quickly, making it ideal for a family meal or with friends.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 500 g green beans (preferably fresh, but frozen can also be used)
- 1 carrot
- 2 large onions
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red for a vibrant color)
- 2 peeled tomatoes (or canned)
- 2 tablespoons oil (olive or sunflower)
- 1 liter water
- Bors (to taste)
- Spices: salt, pepper, thyme
- Greens: parsley, lovage, and dill (all fresh, for a perfect taste)

Step-by-Step Preparation:

1. Preparing the Beans: Start by cleaning the beans. Break off the ends and remove any strings. If the beans are older, it’s best to remove the string as well. Once done, rinse them under cold water to remove impurities.

2. Preparing the Vegetables: Clean and wash the carrot, onion, and bell pepper. Cut the carrot and bell pepper into small cubes. Chop the onion finely, so it can sauté evenly.

3. Sautéing the Onion: In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. This will provide a flavorful base for your dish.

4. Adding the Beans and Other Vegetables: Once the onion is ready, add the beans and the chopped vegetables (carrot and bell pepper). Mix well, cover the pot, and let them steam for 10 minutes. This step will enhance the flavors and help the vegetables soften.

5. Adding Water: After 10 minutes, pour water into the pot. Wait for it to reach boiling point. When it starts to boil, it’s time to adjust the taste with salt, pepper, and thyme.

6. The Bors and Tomatoes: Add the bors to taste. Here, you can adjust the acidity according to your preferences. Add the peeled tomatoes, diced or grated, whichever you prefer.

7. Finalizing the Dish: After you turn off the heat, add the finely chopped greens (parsley, lovage, and dill). These will add extra freshness and flavor to your soup.

8. Serving: You can serve the soup hot, but a delicious option is to let it cool slightly and serve it cold, alongside finely chopped green onion. This will add a contrast of textures and flavors.

Practical Tips:

- Choosing the Beans: Buy fresh beans when they are in season for the best flavor. If using frozen beans, make sure to thaw them beforehand.
- Bors: If you prefer a more sour soup, you can add more bors, but be careful not to overpower the taste of the vegetables. Bors can be replaced with lemon juice if you don’t have bors on hand.
- Vegan Option: This recipe can easily be adapted for a vegan version by omitting the oil and using water or vegetable broth to sauté the onion.
- Delicious Combinations: Bean soup pairs perfectly with a slice of fresh bread or crunchy croutons. You can accompany the soup with a green salad for a light and healthy lunch.

Nutritional Information:

Bean soup is a nutritious choice, low in calories. One serving (about 250 ml) contains approximately 120 calories, being rich in vitamins and minerals due to the fresh vegetables. Beans are an excellent source of fiber, aiding digestion, while the greens add essential antioxidants for health.

Frequently Asked Questions:

- Can bean soup be frozen? Yes, the soup can be frozen, but it is recommended to do so without adding the fresh greens. These can be added upon thawing to preserve the flavor and freshness.
- Can I add other vegetables? Of course! You can experiment with vegetables such as zucchini, potatoes, or even green beans, adapting the recipe to your preferences.
- How long does the soup last? The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in airtight containers.

Personal Note:

Bean soup brings back memories of summer days when vegetables are at their peak freshness. It is a recipe that, although simple, offers comfort and satisfaction, bringing family and friends together around the table. Each spoonful is an explosion of flavors, and the fresh greens at the end transform this dish into a celebration of summer. Enjoy!

 Ingredients: 1/2 kg green beans, 1 carrot, 2 large onions, 1 bell pepper, 2 peeled tomatoes, parsley, lovage, and fresh dill, 2 tablespoons of oil, spices: thyme, salt, and a pinch of pepper, 1 liter of water and borscht for souring, to taste.

 Tags:  soup vegetables pods