Green bean soup

Green bean soup: a feast of flavors

Green bean soup is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings a touch of freshness to any meal. This recipe is perfect for warm summer days, but it can be enjoyed in any season, offering a comforting and healthy taste. Moreover, green bean soup has a long history and is appreciated in many cultures for its unique aroma and nutritional benefits.

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

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 jar of green beans (680 g)
- 1 medium onion
- 1 large carrot
- 1 mix of bell peppers (approximately 200 g)
- 3 tablespoons of oil (preferably olive or sunflower)
- 3 tablespoons of sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 3 eggs (for a touch of richness)
- 3 cloves of garlic
- Borscht to taste (or lemon juice, if you prefer a more sour note)
- 1 bunch of fresh lovage
- Salt to taste

Step by step: Preparing green bean soup

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by peeling the onion, which you will chop finely. Choose a fresh onion that has a firm texture and vibrant color. This will add a sweet flavor to your dish.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot, add the three tablespoons of oil. Heat the oil over medium heat, then add the chopped onion. Sauté the onion for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Add the grated carrot, which will add sweetness and a pleasant texture. Then, add the diced bell pepper mix. Continue sautéing the vegetables for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently to allow the flavors to meld.

3. Boiling the vegetables: After the vegetables are prepared, add water (approximately 1.5 liters) and a little salt. Let everything boil over medium heat for 10-15 minutes until the vegetables are well cooked. It is important not to overcook them to maintain the crisp texture of the beans.

4. Adding the beans: Rinse the green beans from the jar under cold running water. Then, add them to the pot. This will bring a fresh note to your soup. Let it boil for 5-7 minutes, then add the borscht to taste. If you don’t have borscht, lemon juice is an excellent alternative that provides a pleasant acidity.

5. Preparing the garlic sauce: In a bowl, crack the three eggs and add the sour cream. Use a whisk to mix well until you get a smooth composition. Add the crushed garlic cloves, mixing well. This sauce will bring an intense aroma and enrich the soup.

6. Finalizing the soup: Using a ladle, take a few spoonfuls of the hot soup and gradually add them to the bowl with the garlic sauce, continuously stirring to avoid curdling the eggs. This technique is called tempering and helps achieve a creamy texture. Then, pour the mixture back into the pot, stirring gently to homogenize the soup.

7. Adding the lovage: Finally, add the finely chopped lovage, which will provide a special fragrance. Mix well and let the soup boil for another 1-2 minutes, then turn off the heat.

8. Serving: You can serve the green bean soup hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or crunchy croutons. A delicious idea is to add a spoonful of sour cream on top for a more appealing look. The soup pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or herbal tea.

Nutritional benefits:
Green bean soup is rich in vitamins and minerals, being an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and fiber. Green beans are known for their beneficial effects on digestion and their contribution to heart health. Additionally, the eggs and sour cream provide an important protein intake, ideal for a balanced meal.

Vegetarian option:
If you want to turn this recipe into a vegetarian one, you can replace the eggs with a mix of tofu and turmeric to achieve a similar texture. You can also omit the sour cream or replace it with a vegan alternative, thus obtaining a healthy vegan soup.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans. Make sure to thaw and rinse them well before adding them to the soup.

2. How can I store the soup?
Green bean soup stores well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.

3. Can I use other vegetables?
Of course! The soup can be customized with your favorite vegetables, such as zucchini, potatoes, or celery, to give it a different taste.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it’s time to put on your apron and start cooking. Green bean soup will delight you with its delicious flavors and bring comfort in every spoonful. So, enjoy, dear ones!