Green bean soup

Green bean soup – A comforting delicacy for the soul

Green bean soup is one of those traditional recipes that remind us of childhood, family meals, and moments spent with loved ones. It is an easy-to-make soup, full of flavors and nutrients, that can be enjoyed hot or cold, depending on your preferences. Moreover, it is an excellent choice for a healthy meal, being rich in fiber and vitamins. Let’s discover together how to prepare this delicious soup step by step.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Necessary ingredients:

- 400 g green beans (preferably yellow for a more pleasant appearance)
- 3 medium potatoes
- 1 red bell pepper
- 2 carrots
- 1 parsnip
- 1 onion
- 1 cup of borscht (or to taste)
- Fresh green lovage
- 1 cup of tomato juice
- 1 tablespoon of oil
- Salt, to taste

Preparing the soup

Step 1: Preparing the vegetables
Start by peeling and washing all the vegetables. Slice the carrots and parsnip into rounds, while the onion can be left whole for easier removal after boiling. This is a common technique used in soup preparation, as the onion will release its flavors into the water without completely breaking down.

Step 2: Boiling the vegetables
Place the cleaned vegetables in a large pot with enough water to cover them completely, adding salt to taste. Let it boil over medium heat, allowing it to come to a few boils, for about 10 minutes. It is important to monitor the heat so that the vegetables do not become too soft.

Step 3: Adding the green beans
Clean the green beans by breaking them into small pieces. Add the beans to the pot with vegetables, and if necessary, add water to exceed the level of the vegetables. At this step, it is good to add the lovage, which will provide a fresh note to your soup.

Step 4: Continuing to cook
When the vegetables are half-cooked, add the diced red bell pepper and the peeled and quartered potatoes. Use new potatoes, which generally have a finer texture and a sweeter taste. Let everything boil together until all the vegetables are cooked.

Step 5: Preparing the borscht
Meanwhile, in another pot, strain the borscht and let it boil for 5-10 minutes. Adding a few lovage leaves to the borscht will enhance the flavors.

Step 6: Finalizing the soup
Once all the vegetables are cooked, remove the onion from the pot and add the tomato juice, oil, and boiled borscht. Adjust the salt to taste and let the soup boil for another 5 minutes.

Step 7: Serving
The green bean soup is now ready to be served! You can add chopped fresh lovage on top for an extra touch of freshness. If you like, serve the soup with a spoonful of sour cream and, for a bit of spiciness, add a hot pepper alongside the plate.

Variations and combinations
This soup can be adapted according to your preferences. You can add other vegetables, such as zucchini or squash, or even some dried beans to give it a richer texture. If you want a heartier version, you can also add some smoked sausages, which will enrich the flavor of the dish.

Frequently asked questions

1. What are the nutritional benefits of this soup?
The green bean soup is rich in fiber, vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants. It is an excellent option for a balanced diet, contributing to digestive health.

2. Can I make this soup vegan?
Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan, and replacing the sour cream with a plant-based version makes it perfect for anyone following a plant-based diet.

3. How can I store the soup?
The green bean soup keeps very well in the refrigerator, in airtight containers, for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it to consume later.

4. What drinks pair well with green bean soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with a dry white wine, but also with a warm herbal tea, which will complement the flavors of the dish.

In conclusion, green bean soup is a simple yet flavorful recipe that can bring warmth and comfort on cooler days. Whether you serve it for lunch or dinner, this soup will surely be appreciated by all your loved ones. Feel free to experiment and add your personal touch, transforming each serving into a special memory. Enjoy your meal!