Canned beans

Recipe for Preserved Green Beans: A Summer Delicacy for Winter

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4 jars of 400 g

Preserved green beans are a perfect choice for keeping the flavor of summer and bringing it to your table throughout the year. These wonderful vegetables are not only delicious but also have multiple nutritional benefits. Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber, green beans are ideal for a healthy diet. In this recipe, we will learn how to preserve green beans in a simple and efficient way, so we can enjoy their fresh taste in the cold season.

Ingredients:
- 1 kg green beans (preferably use slender green beans, but you can choose other types according to your preferences)
- Salt (to taste, about 2-3 tablespoons)
- 1 aspirin tablet (for preservation)

Necessary utensils:
- A large pot for boiling
- A glass jar with an airtight lid (preferably sterilized)
- A knife for cutting
- A wooden spoon
- A blanket or large towel for covering

Step by Step:
1. Preparing the Green Beans: Start by snapping off the ends of the green beans, removing any dried parts. Rinse them well under cold running water to remove impurities. This step is essential to ensure that the beans are clean and ready to boil.

2. Boiling: Place the green beans in a large pot of water, adding a little salt. Boil them for about 15-20 minutes, until they become tender but do not break apart. A good idea is to check them occasionally to ensure they are not overcooked.

3. Cooling: Once boiled, remove the green beans from the water and let them cool slightly. This step is important as it will help you cut them more easily.

4. Filling the Jars: Cut the green beans into pieces of about 3-4 cm. Carefully place them in the jars, gently tapping each jar to settle them evenly. This trick will help you maximize space and ensure the jar is full.

5. Preparing the Brine: In a bowl, mix the juice from the green beans (if you saved it) with salt, according to your taste. This will become the brine that will preserve the beans.

6. Adding the Aspirin: To prevent fermentation and ensure long-term preservation, add one aspirin tablet to each jar. This will act as a natural preservative.

7. Filling the Jars with Brine: Pour the brine into the jars, ensuring that the green beans are completely covered. Leave a small space of about 1-2 cm at the top of the jar for expansion.

8. Sealing: Place the lid on the jars and make sure it is well sealed. Cover the jars with a towel or blanket to protect them from thermal shock.

9. Sterilizing: Place the jars in a large pot of water (making sure they are completely covered) and boil them for 15-20 minutes. This process will help sterilize the contents.

10. Cooling and Storing: After sterilization, remove the jars and let them cool completely at room temperature, covered. The next day, check if the lids have popped up, indicating proper preservation. You can store the jars in a cool, dark place.

Practical Tips:
- Choose fresh ingredients: Use fresh green beans, preferably from local sources, for the best flavor.
- Variations: You can experiment by adding spices like black pepper or garlic for an extra flavor boost.
- Serving: Preserved green beans are excellent as a side dish or as an ingredient in salads and stews. You can combine them with balsamic vinegar and olive oil for a delicious salad.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits:
This preserved green bean recipe has about 50 calories per serving, making it a healthy and nutritious choice. Green beans are high in fiber, helping to maintain digestive health, and contain antioxidants that contribute to strengthening the immune system.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other types of vegetables? Yes, you can also preserve other vegetables like carrots or peas, adjusting the boiling time according to the type of vegetable.
- How long can I keep the jars? If properly sterilized, the green beans can be kept for up to a year under suitable conditions.

Conclusion:
Preserving green beans is an excellent way to enjoy the taste of summer throughout the year. This simple and quick recipe will not only provide you with a delicious delicacy but also the satisfaction of preparing your own preserves. Try to add this recipe to your culinary arsenal and don't hesitate to share the results with friends and family! You will find that they are delighted to fill their plates with these savory preserved green beans.