Green Bean Dish with Meat

Green Bean Stew with Meat - A Comforting Delight

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4-6

Green bean stew with meat is one of those recipes that reminds us of family Sunday meals, with enticing aromas and simple yet flavorful ingredients. This recipe not only offers a delicious taste but is also packed with nutrients, being an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and fiber. Whether you choose to prepare it with chicken, pork, or beef, you will have a comforting meal that will satisfy even the most discerning palates.

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 kg fresh green beans (or frozen/canned)
- 4 medium onions
- 1 medium carrot
- 2-3 stalks of celery
- 2-3 bell peppers (preferably in various colors)
- 500 g fresh tomatoes or 4 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil or vegetable oil
- Fresh dill and tarragon, to taste
- Salt, pepper, and spices to preference
- 500 g meat (chicken, pork, or beef)

Step 1: Prepare the ingredients

Start by cleaning and washing the onion, carrot, celery, and peppers, cutting them into cubes or slices according to your preferences. If using fresh green beans, make sure to trim the ends and cut them into segments of about 5 cm. If using frozen or canned beans, they will require less cooking time.

Step 2: Sauté the vegetables

In a large pot or saucepan, add the oil and sauté the onion over medium heat until it becomes translucent. Then, add the carrot, celery, and peppers, continuing to sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes. If the vegetables stick to the bottom of the pot, you can add a few tablespoons of hot water or broth to help soften them and release their flavors.

Step 3: Add the green beans

Once the vegetables are well sautéed, add the green beans. Pour in hot water (or broth) until the vegetables are covered. Cover the pot with a lid and let the stew simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally. This will allow the green beans to absorb the flavors of the vegetables, making the dish truly delicious.

Step 4: Prepare the tomato sauce

Meanwhile, if using fresh tomatoes, blanch them for a few minutes in hot water to remove the skin, then chop them finely. Add them to the pot after the beans have started to soften. If you prefer tomato paste, add it now, mixing well to incorporate. At the end of this step, you can add some of the chopped herbs, such as dill and tarragon.

Step 5: Cook the meat

The meat can be pre-cooked by boiling or frying. If you choose to boil it, use the resulting broth to add extra flavor to the dish. If you prefer to fry it, make sure to brown it well on all sides, then add it to the pot, stirring gently. Let everything simmer together for 10-15 minutes for the flavors to combine harmoniously.

Step 6: Finalize

After everything has cooked well, season with salt, pepper, and other spices to taste. Finally, you can add the remaining chopped herbs, giving a fresh note to the dish. Let the stew sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Serving suggestions

Green bean stew with meat is served hot, accompanied by a portion of polenta or fresh bread. A simple salad of tomatoes and cucumbers can also perfectly complement this dish. If you want to add a touch of flavor, you can drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over the dish before serving.

Variations and tips

You can experiment with different types of meat or add some spices, such as sweet paprika or herbs, to customize the taste. Additionally, for a vegetarian option, you can omit the meat and add tofu or seitan while maintaining the same delicious base of vegetables.

Nutritional benefits

This dish is rich in protein (due to the meat), fiber (from the green beans), and vitamins (from the vegetables). Green beans are an excellent source of vitamin K, vitamin C, and antioxidants, contributing to the maintenance of a healthy immune system and bones. It is also a low-calorie option, providing about 250-300 calories per serving, depending on the type of meat used.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use canned green beans?
Yes, canned beans are an excellent choice, but make sure to rinse them well before use to remove excess salt.

2. Is it possible to prepare this dish without meat?
Absolutely! You can omit the meat and add more vegetables or opt for a vegetarian version with tofu.

3. Can I prepare the dish in advance?
Yes, green bean stew with meat can be prepared a few days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The flavor will intensify as it cools.

In conclusion, green bean stew with meat is a dish that will not only fill you up but also delight your senses with its delicious flavors. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply for a family meal, it is certainly a recipe that will remain in the memories of your loved ones. So grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and let’s enjoy a delicious meal together!

 Ingredients: 1 kg green beans, 4 onions, 1 medium carrot, a few pieces of celery, 2-3 bell peppers or capia (if you have more colors, it's wonderful); frozen or canned peppers can also be used, 500 g tomatoes or 4 tablespoons of tomato paste, a little oil, dill, tarragon to taste, salt, pepper, spices to taste. You can use chicken, pork, or veal. The meat can be boiled before adding it to the dish or fried and added at the end. If the meat is boiled, use the meat broth instead of water, and if there is leftover broth, you can make a delicious dumpling soup or a pilaf.