Green bean soup

Green Bean Soup – A Recipe Full of Flavor and Tradition

Green bean soup is a classic dish beloved in many cultures. This recipe not only brings a refined taste and an unmistakable aroma but is also an excellent source of essential nutrients. Green beans are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them a perfect choice for a healthy lunch. How about we get started and discover together how to make a delicious green bean soup?

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 kg fresh green beans
- 2 carrots
- 1 large onion
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 parsley root
- 1 parsnip
- 1-2 tablespoons sunflower oil
- 1 tablespoon sweet paprika
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: borscht to sour the soup

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing the green beans thoroughly under cold running water. Make sure to remove any impurities or dry parts. After cleaning the beans, place them in a bowl of cold water. Let them soak for about 30 minutes before boiling. This will help reduce cooking time and encourage a more pleasant texture.

Step 2: Boiling the beans
Put the beans in cold water over low heat. Allow them to simmer for about 30 minutes until they start to soften but do not break apart. This is the perfect time to add the vegetables.

Step 3: Adding the vegetables
Peel and slice the carrots into thin rounds. The parsley root and parsnip should be chopped finely, and the red bell pepper diced. Add all these vegetables to the pot with the green beans. Continue to simmer the mixture for another 15-20 minutes until all the vegetables are well cooked.

Step 4: Preparing the roux
In a separate pan, add a little oil and sauté the finely chopped onion over medium heat. When the onion becomes translucent, add the sweet paprika and mix well. This step will enhance the flavor of the soup. Gradually add some of the soup liquid to the pan, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.

Step 5: Combining the roux with the soup
Once the roux is smooth, add it to the pot with the soup, stirring well. This will give the soup a richer consistency and a deeper flavor. At this point, you can also add a bit of chopped fresh parsley for an extra touch of freshness.

Step 6: Finishing the soup
Let the soup come to a boil once more, then taste and season with salt and pepper to your liking. If you like a tangy soup, you can add borscht for a more vibrant flavor. Once the soup is ready, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Serving suggestions
Green bean soup is delicious served warm, alongside a slice of fresh bread or polenta. You can also add a spoonful of sour cream for extra creaminess. A crisp green salad on the side would perfectly complete the meal!

Possible variations
To add a touch of originality, you can experiment with different spices, such as celery or even a splash of lemon to enhance the flavors. You can also replace the sweet paprika with a hot one if you prefer a spicier taste.

Frequently asked questions
- How can I store green bean soup?
The soup will keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, tightly sealed in an airtight container. You can reheat it over low heat or in the microwave.

- Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans, but make sure to thaw them before adding them to the soup.

Nutritional benefits
Green bean soup is an excellent source of fiber, which helps maintain digestive health. Additionally, green beans contain vitamins A, C, and K, as well as important minerals such as iron and calcium.

Green bean soup is not just a delicious dish but also a great way to bring a touch of tradition and health to your table. So, don’t hesitate to include it in your weekly menu! Enjoy your meal!