Yellow bean soup

Yellow Bean Borscht: A Delicious Summer-Inspired Soup

When it comes to soups, yellow bean borscht is an excellent choice, both for its comforting taste and the nutritional benefits it provides. This simple and quick recipe, perfect for the whole family, brings together fresh ingredients and enticing flavors, turning mealtime into an unforgettable experience.

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

Ingredients:

- 700 g yellow split beans (preferably frozen to maintain freshness)
- 2 medium onions, diced
- 2-3 carrots, grated or diced
- 2-3 peeled tomatoes (preferably canned, Italian for a more intense flavor)
- 2 tablespoons corn or sunflower oil
- A sprig of fresh or frozen thyme
- 1 stalk of celery, diced (optional, if you don’t have celery leaves for garnish)
- Salt, to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable seasoning
- Magic or natural borscht, to taste (for a tangy flavor)
- Fresh herbs (parsley, lovage, or dill), finely chopped
- Sour cream and chili pepper (optional, for extra flavor)

Step-by-Step Preparation:

1. Heating the Oil: In a deep pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Make sure the oil is hot before adding the vegetables to sauté them evenly.

2. Sautéing the Vegetables: Add the diced onion and carrots to the hot oil. Sauté the vegetables for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes translucent and the carrots soften slightly. If desired, add the diced celery now for an even richer flavor.

3. Adding Water: Once the vegetables are sautéed, pour in 2-3 liters of water. Cover the pot and wait for it to reach a boiling point.

4. Including the Beans: Once the water starts boiling, add the cleaned and broken yellow beans, thyme sprig, salt, and vegetable seasoning. Let it simmer over medium heat with the lid on for 12-15 minutes.

5. Tomatoes: After the beans begin to soften, add the peeled, finely chopped tomatoes. If you prefer, you can use a blender to turn them into a smooth paste, which will enrich the borscht's consistency. Let it simmer for a few more minutes.

6. Seasoning: Once all the ingredients are well combined, taste and adjust with salt, vegetable seasoning, or magic borscht to your liking.

7. Finishing Touches: Turn off the heat and add the finely chopped herbs. Cover the pot and let the borscht rest for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

8. Serving: Serve the borscht hot, sprinkled with fresh herbs. You can add sour cream and chili pepper for a truly delightful feast.

Tips and Practical Advice:

- Beans: If using fresh beans, make sure to clean them thoroughly. Frozen beans are an excellent option as they retain their nutrients and are easy to use.

- Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes provide a more intense flavor, but if you have fresh tomatoes, feel free to use them. Make sure to peel them for a smoother texture.

- Herbs: Parsley and lovage add a fresh note, but don’t hesitate to experiment with other herbs like dill or basil.

Recommended Pairings:

Yellow bean borscht pairs perfectly with a slice of homemade bread, freshly baked. Additionally, a dry white wine or a refreshing lemonade can beautifully complement the meal.

Nutritional Benefits:

Yellow beans are rich in protein and fiber, contributing to healthy digestion. The vegetables in this borscht provide essential vitamins and antioxidants that support the immune system.

Frequently Asked Questions:

- Can I use other vegetables in this recipe? Absolutely! Adding diced potatoes or zucchini can diversify the texture and flavor of the borscht.

- How can I store the borscht? The borscht can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it in portions for a quick meal in the future.

- Is this recipe vegan? Yes, yellow bean borscht is completely vegan, making it an excellent option for those following a plant-based diet.

In conclusion, yellow bean borscht is not just a simple recipe but a true celebration of flavors! Enjoy it with your loved ones and savor every spoonful. This is not just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that brings together tradition and innovation on your plate. Bon appétit!

 Ingredients: I propose this easy-to-make and delicious soup. We need 700 grams of yellow string beans (I used frozen), 2 onions, a few carrots, 2-3 peeled tomatoes (I use canned ones from Italy in winter; I find them the best), 2 tablespoons of corn or sunflower oil, a sprig of fresh thyme (I used frozen as I keep it for soups), celery or any greens you prefer, salt, magic borscht (or natural if you have it; I can't find it here), a tablespoon of vegetable seasoning, sour cream, and optional but welcome hot pepper.