Green bean soup

Green bean soup: a delicious and comforting recipe

Green bean soup is a simple yet flavorful dish, perfect for days when you want to enjoy a light and healthy meal. This recipe is inspired by a dear friend, Nadina, and is known for its fresh and aromatic taste, without the need for borscht. Additionally, it is an excellent choice for vegetarians or vegans, as it is rich in nutrients and fiber. Let's embark on this culinary journey!

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 800 g fresh green beans
- 2-3 carrots
- 1 parsnip
- 1 onion
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red or yellow for extra color)
- 400 ml tomato juice (you can also use fresh crushed tomatoes)
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil or sunflower oil
- Salt, to taste
- Ground pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs (parsley or dill, for serving)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the beans:
Start by washing the green beans thoroughly under cold running water. Remove the ends (stems) and cut the beans into pieces about 4-5 cm long, depending on your preference. This step will give the soup a pleasant appearance and make it easy to eat.

2. Blanching the beans:
In a large pot, add water and a little salt, then bring to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the cut green beans and let them boil for 3-5 minutes. This step will help maintain the vibrant green color and reduce cooking time. After blanching, drain the beans and set them aside.

3. Preparing the vegetables:
Peel the onion and chop it finely. Grate the carrots and parsnip on a large grater to integrate them better into the soup. Wash the bell pepper, remove the seeds, and cut it into small cubes. These vegetables will add sweetness and texture to the soup.

4. Sautéing the vegetables:
In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the carrots, parsnip, and chopped bell pepper. Sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become slightly soft and fragrant. This step enhances the flavors and gives the soup a special taste.

5. Cooking the soup:
Add 3 liters of water over the sautéed vegetables and let it boil for 15 minutes. When the vegetables are half-cooked, add the blanched green beans. Cover the pot and let everything simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the beans are tender.

6. Finishing the soup:
Once the beans are cooked, add the tomato juice. You can use canned tomato juice or fresh crushed tomatoes for a more intense flavor. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes, then remove from heat.

7. Serving:
The green bean soup is served hot, with a spoonful of sour cream on top if you want to add a creaminess. Sprinkle fresh chopped herbs on top to enhance the flavors and add a colorful appearance.

Useful tips:
- If you want to add a touch of spiciness, you can add some chopped fresh chili pepper or chili flakes during the sautéing of the vegetables.
- This soup can be easily adapted by adding other vegetables like zucchini or potatoes, depending on your preferences.
- Green bean soup keeps very well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and can be frozen to be consumed later.

Nutritional benefits:
Green bean soup is an excellent nutritional choice. Green beans are rich in fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, and minerals like iron and calcium. This helps maintain digestive health and can contribute to weight loss due to its low calorie content. A serving of soup can contain about 150-200 calories, depending on the amount of oil and sour cream used.

Drink pairing:
To complement this meal, you can serve a glass of mineral water with lemon or freshly made lemonade. Additionally, a dry white wine or a light beer can be excellent combinations.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen beans?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans. Make sure to blanch them for 2-3 minutes before adding them to the soup.
- How can I enhance the flavor of the soup?
Adding aromatic herbs like thyme or oregano can enhance the flavor of the soup. You can also add a clove of chopped garlic during the sautéing of the vegetables.

Green bean soup is more than just a simple dish; it is a recipe that brings together fresh, flavorful, and healthy ingredients, creating a comforting taste that will delight your taste buds. Whether you prepare it for a family meal or serve it at a gathering with friends, this soup will surely be a hit. So put on your apron and let's cook!