Green bean soup

Green bean soup is a dish that brings not only delicious flavors but also beautiful childhood memories. Whether you enjoy it on cool autumn days or warm summer evenings, this recipe will delight your senses and warm your heart. So, let’s embark on a journey together to prepare this delicious soup, using frozen green beans to enjoy a fresh taste regardless of the season.

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

Ingredients

- 500 g green beans (frozen or fresh)
- 2 medium onions, finely chopped
- 1 large carrot (or 2 small), grated
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 small jar of canned tomatoes (or fresh tomatoes, chopped)
- 4 teaspoons of Delikat or salt (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- 2-3 tablespoons of oil (preferably olive oil or sunflower oil)
- A generous handful of fresh dill, finely chopped
- Pepper (optional, to taste)

Preparation

1. Preparing the vegetables. Start by chopping the onion and bell pepper into small cubes. Grate the carrot on a fine grater, so it easily integrates into the soup. These vegetables will contribute to a rich taste and unmistakable aroma.

2. Sautéing the vegetables. In a large pot, add 2-3 tablespoons of oil and heat it over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Let them sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. Then, add the grated carrot and continue to sauté until the vegetables become translucent and their aroma is released.

3. Adding the green beans. It’s time to add the green beans. If you are using frozen beans, there is no need to thaw them beforehand. Add the beans to the pot and mix everything well. Let them sauté together for another 3-4 minutes to combine the flavors.

4. Cooking the soup. At this point, add a cup of water to the pot and cover it. Let it simmer over medium heat for about 10 minutes. Then, add enough water to completely cover the beans and let it boil for another 15-20 minutes. The beans should be tender, but don’t overcook them to avoid mushiness.

5. Adding the tomatoes and seasonings. After the beans have boiled, add the canned (or fresh) tomatoes along with Delikat or salt. Let it boil on high heat for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. Preparing the roux. In a small bowl, mix the 2 tablespoons of flour with a little cold water to form a paste. This will help thicken the soup. Add this mixture to the soup, stirring vigorously to prevent lumps from forming. Let it boil for another minute, then turn off the heat.

7. Finishing the soup. Finally, add the finely chopped dill, stirring well to release its aroma. The soup is now ready to serve!

Serving and suggestions

Green bean soup is served hot, with a slice of fresh bread on the side. For an extra flavor boost, add a few drops of lemon juice or a spoonful of sour cream. This soup pairs perfectly with a summer salad or warm polenta, and for those who prefer a spicier taste, add a little hot pepper.

Useful tips

- Fresh vs. frozen beans. If you have access to fresh green beans, they will offer a more intense flavor. Make sure the beans are young and crisp for the best results.
- Vegan version. If you want a completely vegan version, skip the Delikat and use salt and spices to enhance the flavor.
- Parsnip root. A delicious alternative is to add a parsnip root at the beginning of the preparation, providing a more complex taste.

Nutritional benefits

Green bean soup is an excellent source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Green beans are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folic acid, which contributes to cardiovascular health. Additionally, the soup is low in calories, with approximately 150-180 calories per serving, depending on the amount of oil and sour cream used.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use other vegetables? Absolutely! The carrot can be replaced with celery or zucchini, and the bell pepper can be swapped for broccoli or cauliflower, depending on your preferences.
- How long does the soup last? The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, and for longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months.
- Can it be made without flour? Yes, if you want a gluten-free version, you can omit the flour or replace it with cornstarch diluted in water.

Now that you’ve learned all the secrets of green bean soup, all that’s left is to try it! By following each step with patience and dedication, you will create a delicious dish that will bring joy to every meal. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 500g beans, 2 onions, 1 carrot (or 2 small ones), 1 small jar of homemade tomatoes or whatever you prefer, 1 bell pepper, 4 teaspoons of delicacy, 2 tablespoons of flour, dill