Green beans for winter

Green Beans for Winter: Classic Recipe Rooted in Tradition

Who doesn’t remember the smell of green beans lovingly cooked on summer days? This green bean recipe for winter is not only an efficient way to preserve fresh vegetables but also a way to bring back pleasant memories on cold winter evenings. In my family, green beans are prepared with love and patience, and now I am pleased to share this recipe with you, step by step.

Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 6 jars of 400 ml

Ingredients

- 2 kg green beans (string beans and broad beans)
- 0.8-1 kg ripe tomatoes (preferably Romanian tomatoes)
- 200-250 ml oil (sunflower or olive oil, according to preference)
- Salt, to taste
- Water, as needed
- Optional: bell pepper (for a richer flavor)

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Beans

1. Start by washing the green beans well under a stream of cold water. This step is essential to remove impurities and pesticides.
2. Trim the ends of the beans. If using broad beans, cut them in half lengthwise.
3. Cut the beans into pieces of desired size – smaller if you prefer, larger if you want to feel their texture in the dish.

Step 2: Cooking the Beans

1. In a large pot, add 100-150 ml of the chosen oil, the cut beans, salt, and a cup of water.
2. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer over medium heat. This step will help the beans soften and absorb the flavors.

Step 3: Preparing the Tomatoes

1. Meanwhile, peel the tomatoes. You can easily do this by dipping them in hot water for a few seconds, then in cold water – the skin will come off easily.
2. Chop the tomatoes finely and place them in a pan with 50-100 ml of oil.
3. Let them simmer over medium heat until the juice released by the tomatoes reduces and becomes a concentrated tomato paste. This preparation will add depth of flavor to your beans.

Step 4: Combining the Ingredients

1. Once the beans have started to soften, add the tomato paste over the beans in the pot.
2. Pour in water until it slightly exceeds the beans. Let it simmer over medium heat until the mixture reduces a bit. Finally, adjust the salt to taste – remember that salt will help preserve the dish.

Step 5: Preserving the Beans

1. Once the mixture is ready, remove the pot from the heat. While still warm, pour the beans into sterilized jars. Make sure the jars are still warm to avoid cracking.
2. Place the jars in a tray and put them in the preheated oven at minimum temperature, without preheating it first. Leave them in the oven for 30 minutes to seal properly.

Step 6: Cooling and Storing

1. After 30 minutes, take the jars out of the oven and let them cool completely on a clean towel. This step helps create the vacuum necessary for preservation.
2. Once completely cooled, label the jars with the date and type of preparation and store them in a cool, dark place.

Practical Tips

- Fresh Beans: Choose fresh beans with firm, green pods. Avoid beans with yellow spots or dried out.
- Tomatoes: Use well-ripened tomatoes, as they will provide a sweeter and richer taste. You can also use canned tomatoes, but the flavor will not be as fresh.
- Bell Pepper: If you decide to add bell pepper, chop it into cubes and cook it with the tomatoes. This will add extra sweetness and texture.
- Preservation: Ensure that the jars are well sealed and that no air is left inside. Proper preservation will allow the beans to last up to a year.

Nutritional Benefits

Green beans are an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They are rich in vitamins C, K, and A, providing an immune boost. They also contain fiber, which aids digestion and maintains intestinal health. Tomatoes are also an important source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with other seasonal vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini.

2. How can I tell if the jars have sealed properly?
Check if the lid is completely down. If you can press the center of the lid and it pops back, the jar has not sealed well.

3. How long can I keep green beans?
If stored properly, green beans can be consumed for up to a year.

Serving Suggestions

Canned green beans are delicious served alongside mashed potatoes or as a side dish with pork or chicken. You can also add them to salads for an extra crunch and nutrients.

Variations and Combinations

For a spicier version, add some hot peppers to the mix. You can also add spices like thyme or basil for a Mediterranean flavor.

This green bean recipe for winter is not just a method to preserve this wonderful vegetable but also a way to connect with culinary traditions and childhood memories. Every jar you open in winter will remind you of sunny summer days and moments spent with loved ones. Happy cooking!