Garlic Green Bean Stew

Green Bean Stew with Garlic - A Healthy and Flavorful Delicacy

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Welcome to the world of culinary delights! Today we will prepare a simple yet flavorful and nutritious dish: green bean stew with garlic. This recipe is perfect for those who want to enjoy a healthy, quick, and filling meal, ideal for lunch or dinner. Green beans are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, adding a splash of color and flavor to your meal.

A Brief History of the Recipe

Green bean stew is a traditional recipe found in many cultures that emphasize cooking with seasonal ingredients. This dish has been appreciated over time for its simplicity and versatility. Green beans have been cultivated for thousands of years and are considered a staple food in the diets of many people due to their nutritional benefits and fresh, crunchy taste.

Necessary Ingredients

- 500 g fresh green beans
- 4 garlic cloves
- Salt, to taste
- White pepper, to taste
- Water, for boiling

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation

1. Cleaning and Preparing the Beans
Start by cleaning the green beans. Remove the ends and, if necessary, cut them into 5-7 cm pieces. This will help them cook evenly. Rinse them well under cold running water to remove any impurities.

2. Boiling the Beans
Place water in a large pot (about 1.5 liters) and add salt and white pepper to taste. Bring the water to a boil, then add the cleaned beans. Boil them for 8-10 minutes, or until they are crunchy yet tender. Do not let them boil too long, as they will lose their texture.

3. Preparing the Garlic Paste
Meanwhile, peel the garlic cloves and crush them using a mortar or a garlic press. You can add a little salt to help form a smooth paste. If desired, you can add a tablespoon of water for a more fluid consistency.

4. Draining the Beans
Once the beans are cooked, remove them from the pot using a slotted spoon or transfer them to a strainer. Let them drain well so that no excess water remains.

5. Serving the Dish
Serve the beans warm, seasoned with the garlic paste. You can add a few drops of extra virgin olive oil for an extra flavor and elegant appearance. This dish is delicious and can be served as a side or as a main course alongside a fresh salad.

Practical Tips

- Choosing the Beans: When selecting green beans, ensure they are crunchy and vibrant green. Avoid those that appear wilted or have spots.
- Variations: You can add some freshly chopped parsley leaves or a little lemon juice to the garlic paste for a fresher taste.
- Storing the Beans: If you have leftover cooked beans, you can store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat them by steaming or in the microwave.

Nutritional Benefits

Green beans are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as dietary fiber. They help maintain healthy digestion and contribute to eye health. Additionally, garlic is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, providing extra health benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use frozen beans?
Yes, frozen beans are an excellent option, but make sure to boil them for a shorter time, as they are already partially cooked.

- How can I add protein to this dish?
You can serve the beans with grilled chicken breast or fish for a balanced lunch or dinner.

- What drinks pair well with this dish?
A cold lemonade or herbal tea would be perfect accompaniments to this light and fresh dish.

I hope this recipe for green bean stew with garlic brings you joy in the kitchen and at the table! Don't forget to share this recipe with your friends and let us know how it turned out! Enjoy your meal!