Bean soup with smoked meat
Green Bean Soup with Smoked Meat – A Simple Delight for Summer Days!
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Green bean soup is a classic, simple, and delicious recipe that brings a touch of warmth and comfort to every bowl. With accessible ingredients and an easy cooking technique, this soup is perfect for summer days but can be enjoyed in any season. Moreover, it is an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy a healthy and nourishing meal, considering the nutritional benefits of fresh vegetables and smoked meat.
The history of this recipe is simple yet charming. Soup, in general, has been a staple dish in many cultures, aimed at transforming seasonal vegetables into warm and comforting meals. Green beans, with their crunchy texture and delicate flavor, perfectly complement the smoky aroma of the smoked meat, creating a perfect balance between ingredients.
Necessary ingredients:
- 500 g green beans
- 400 g smoked meat
- 2 carrots
- 1 bell pepper
- 2 onions
- 200 g tomato pulp
- 2 garlic cloves
- Salt, to taste
- Dried or fresh tarragon, to preference
- Tarragon juice, or alternatively, white vinegar for acidity
Step-by-step preparation:
1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the vegetables well under cold running water. This is an essential step to remove impurities and pesticides. Then, cut the green beans into suitable pieces, about 4-5 cm long. If you prefer, you can leave some beans whole for a more rustic appearance.
2. Cutting the vegetables: Chop the onion into small cubes, and the carrots and bell pepper into medium cubes. These cuts will help with even cooking and add a pleasant texture to the soup.
3. Preparing the smoked meat: Cut the smoked meat into thin slices. This will add a rich and smoky flavor to your soup. It is recommended to use a quality smoked meat that has an intense taste.
4. Sautéing the ingredients: In a pan, add a little oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked meat and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes slightly crispy and releases its aroma. Then, add the onion and sauté for another 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Add the tomato pulp to the pan and mix well. This will add a note of sweetness and acidity to the soup.
5. Boiling the soup: In a large pot, add the cut green beans, carrot, bell pepper, and the sautéed smoked meat and onion mixture, then fill with water. Make sure the water covers all the ingredients. Let it boil over medium heat for about 40 minutes, or until the beans are tender.
6. Seasoning the soup: At the end of the boiling time, add salt, pepper, tarragon, and the sliced garlic cloves. The garlic will add an intense and aromatic flavor. If you prefer a more pronounced acidity, you can add tarragon juice or, alternatively, white vinegar, which will enhance the flavors.
7. Serving: Once the soup is ready, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. You can garnish it with a little chopped fresh dill for added flavor and color. This soup is served hot, perfect alongside a slice of fresh bread or polenta.
Useful tips:
- Vegetarian option: If you want to turn this recipe into a vegetarian option, you can replace the smoked meat with mushrooms or smoked tofu.
- Heartier soup: If you like your soup heartier, you can add diced potatoes, which will thicken the dish slightly.
- Smoky flavor: If you don’t have smoked meat, you can use another type of smoked product or even a smoked spice to add a smoky note.
Nutritional benefits:
Green bean soup is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, contributing to healthy digestion and maintaining optimal body weight. Green beans are an excellent source of vitamin K, vitamin C, and folic acid, while the smoked meat provides a supply of proteins and healthy fats.
Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen green beans? Yes, frozen beans are an excellent option and will reduce preparation time.
2. How can I store the soup? You can store the soup in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. It can also be frozen for later consumption.
3. What drinks pair well with this soup? A glass of dry white wine or a cold lemonade can perfectly complement this meal.
This green bean soup with smoked meat is a perfect example of "comfort food" and offers not only a delicious meal but also an opportunity to enjoy moments spent in the kitchen. Try this simple and flavorful recipe and let yourself be carried away by its aromas! Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: 500 g green beans, 400 g smoked bacon, 2 carrots, 1 bell pepper, 2 onions, 200 g tomato pulp, 2 cloves of garlic, salt, tarragon, tarragon juice
