Green bean stew

Green bean stew - A delicious and comforting recipe

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

Green beans are one of the vegetables that delight us with their crunchy texture and fresh taste. This green bean stew is a simple recipe but has a remarkable impact on flavor, perfect for light lunches or family dinners. Let’s discover together the necessary steps to achieve this savory dish!

Ingredients needed:

- 500 g green beans
- 1 large onion
- 1 bell pepper
- 2-3 cloves of garlic
- 200 ml tomato puree
- salt, to taste
- olive oil or sunflower oil
- fresh parsley, for garnish

Preparing the green bean stew:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the green beans well under cold running water. Then, trim the ends of the beans by cutting both ends. This is a simple yet essential task to achieve a pleasant texture in the final dish.

2. Chopping the vegetables: Peel the onion and bell pepper, then chop them into small cubes. This will help with even cooking and allow the flavors to combine better.

3. Sautéing the vegetables: In a deep pan, add a few tablespoons of oil and place it over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the pepper softens.

4. Adding the beans: Dry the green beans using a clean kitchen towel or some paper towels. This step is important to avoid excess water in the stew. Add the beans to the pan over the sautéed onion and pepper, sprinkle with salt to taste, and mix well.

5. Cooking the beans: Cover the pan with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let the beans cook for 10-15 minutes. During this time, the beans will release water, and the colors will begin to intensify. It is essential not to open the lid too often to maintain the steam and help the vegetables cook evenly.

6. Adding the tomato puree: Once the beans are cooked and starting to soften, add the tomato puree. This will add a rich flavor and delicious aroma to the dish. Let everything simmer together for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

7. Finishing the stew: Peel the garlic and chop it finely. Add the garlic to the stew and let it infuse for a few minutes until it releases its aroma. Finally, turn off the heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley for an extra touch of freshness.

8. Serving: Serve the green bean stew warm, alongside fresh bread, polenta, or even a portion of rice. If you like, you can add some lemon slices or a tomato salad to complete the meal.

Useful tips:

- Meat option: If you want to turn this recipe into a heartier dish, you can add diced chicken or pork, which you can sauté together with the onion and bell pepper.
- Optional additives: You can experiment with other vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, to add various textures and flavors.
- Vegan meal: This recipe is perfect for vegans and vegetarians, offering a nutrient-rich meal full of vitamins.

Nutritional benefits:

Green beans are an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as dietary fiber, which helps maintain healthy digestion. They are low in calories, making them a fantastic option for those looking to maintain or lose weight. A serving of green bean stew contains about 150 calories, depending on the amount of oil used.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use frozen green beans? Yes, frozen green beans are an excellent alternative, and the dish will turn out just as well.
- What other dishes pair well with green beans? Green bean stew pairs well with various meat dishes, as well as fresh salads or polenta.
- How can I store the dish? Green bean stew can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days or can be frozen to be consumed later.

In conclusion, green bean stew is a versatile dish, full of flavor and easy to make, perfect for any occasion. Experiment with the ingredients and make your unique version! Enjoy your meal!