Green bean soup
Green bean soup: a healthy and comforting delicacy
Green bean soup is an excellent choice for chilly days or for moments when you want to enjoy a light yet flavorful meal. This recipe combines simple, nutrient-rich ingredients, and the tomato sauce adds a special touch without the need for souring with borscht. Let's venture into the world of flavors and textures and create this delicious soup together!
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4-6
Essential ingredients
- 1 kg green beans, fresh or frozen
- 3 medium carrots
- 2 parsley roots
- 1 piece of celery (about 200 g)
- 3-4 cloves of garlic
- 250 ml broth (tomato juice)
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 2 eggs
- Salt, to taste
- Spices (basil, thyme, dill, lovage - according to preference)
- Oil, for roux
Step-by-step preparation of the soup
Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by cleaning and chopping the vegetables. Cut the carrots and parsley roots into small cubes, and the celery into suitable pieces. Make sure the green beans are well cleaned and cut to the desired size. The garlic will be lightly crushed with the blade of a knife to release its aroma.
Step 2: Boiling the vegetables
In a large pot, add enough water (about 2-3 liters) and bring it to a boil. Once the water starts boiling, add the carrots, parsley, and celery. Let the vegetables boil for 10-15 minutes until they become slightly soft.
Step 3: Adding the green beans
After the vegetables have boiled, add the green beans and salt. Continue to simmer everything on low heat, covering the pot with a lid, for about 20 minutes. Check occasionally, ensuring that the beans become tender but not too soft.
Step 4: The roux
In a separate pan, heat a little oil and add the flour. Stir constantly to obtain a golden roux. Once the roux is ready, add the broth (tomato juice) and mix well, letting it simmer for a few minutes. This will add a rich flavor and a hint of acidity to the soup.
Step 5: Combining the ingredients
Pour the roux into the pot with the vegetables and green beans. Mix well to integrate all the flavors. Let the soup simmer for another 5-10 minutes. Add the basil, thyme, and any other preferred spices.
Step 6: Finalizing the soup
Turn off the heat and add the crushed garlic and beaten eggs. Stir quickly to avoid the eggs coagulating. This will give the soup a creamy texture and a unique taste.
Serving the soup
Green bean soup is delicious served hot, alongside polenta. A traditional variation is to add cheese to the polenta, resulting in a savory mix. Additionally, a garnish of hot pepper can add extra spice, perfect for those who prefer bolder flavors.
A brief history
Green bean soup is a traditional recipe spread across many cultures, based on the simple combination of vegetables and beans, ensuring a nutritious meal. This dish has often been served in households due to the availability of ingredients and ease of preparation. The use of tomato sauce instead of borscht is a less common variant but brings a unique flavor.
Nutritional benefits
This soup is rich in vitamins (A, C, K) and minerals, providing benefits for the immune system and skin health. Green beans are an excellent source of fiber, making it ideal for healthy digestion. Furthermore, it is low in calories, making it a perfect choice for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Possible variations
There are many ways to customize this recipe. You can add potatoes for a richer consistency or experiment with other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. You can also replace the tomato sauce with fresh tomato puree for a more intense flavor.
Frequently asked questions
1. How can I make the soup spicier? - Add hot peppers or chili flakes during cooking to intensify the flavor.
2. Can I use canned beans? - Yes, but make sure to rinse them well before adding them to the soup to remove excess sodium.
3. How long can the soup be stored? - The soup can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can freeze it for later consumption, but it is recommended not to add the eggs before freezing.
4. What other recipes can I make with green beans? - Green beans can be used in salads, side dishes, or baked dishes alongside meat.
Final note
Green bean soup is a symbol of simple yet flavorful cooking that reminds us of family meals. Whether you prepare it for a family dinner or a festive meal, this recipe will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. So, put on your apron, get your ingredients ready, and enjoy a unique culinary experience!
Ingredients: 1 kg beans, 3 carrots, 2 parsley roots, 1 piece of celery (200 g), 3-4 cloves of garlic, 250 ml broth (tomato juice), 1 tablespoon flour, 2 eggs, spices (basil, thyme, dill, lovage ... whatever you like)
