Green Bean Soup

Green Bean Soup – A Healthy and Comforting Delicacy

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total: 50 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Green bean soup is one of those recipes that reminds us of family meals, moments spent together, and the natural flavors of fresh vegetables. This soup, packed with vitamins and nutrients, is perfect for cool days and is not only easy to prepare but also extremely delicious. Besides being a simple recipe, it offers plenty of variations and combinations, so let’s dive into the world of flavors and discover together how to make this wonderful soup.

Ingredients

- 500 g cleaned, washed green beans, broken into 2-3 pieces
- 1 medium onion, peeled and washed
- 2 carrots, peeled and washed
- 1 parsnip root, peeled and washed
- ½ celery root, peeled and washed
- 1 bell pepper, seeded and washed
- 2-3 tomatoes, peeled
- 2 tablespoons of oil
- 1.5 - 2 L hot water
- 1 egg or 2 yolks
- 150 g sour cream or yogurt
- 2-3 celery leaves, washed
- a bunch of parsley, washed
- salt, to taste

The Beginning of the Adventure – Preparing the Ingredients

The first step in making green bean soup is to ensure all the ingredients are ready. Chop the onion, carrots, parsnip, and celery into small cubes. These vegetables will not only add a savory flavor to the soup but will also provide a pleasant texture, turning it into a true feast for the senses.

Cooking – The First Steps

1. Heating the Oil: In a large pot, add the 2 tablespoons of oil and heat it over medium heat. Sunflower oil is an excellent choice, but you can also opt for olive oil for a more intense flavor.

2. Sautéing the Vegetables: Once the oil is hot, add the onion, carrot, parsnip, and celery. Sauté the vegetables for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the onion becomes translucent. This step is essential for developing flavors and creating a delicious base for the soup.

3. Adding the Water: Pour hot water into the pot, covering the vegetables. Let it boil for 10-15 minutes over medium heat. This stage allows the vegetables to release their flavors and blend together.

The Flavors Intensify

1. Preparing the Green Beans: Meanwhile, finely chop the bell pepper and cut the tomatoes into small cubes. After the 15 minutes of boiling, add the green beans, bell pepper, and tomatoes to the pot. Season with salt to taste and let them boil together to combine the flavors.

Finalizing the Soup

1. Adding the Greens: When the green beans are cooked (about 10-15 minutes), finely chop the celery leaves and parsley, then add them to the soup. Stir well and check again if more salt is needed.

2. Egg Cream: In a bowl, beat the egg (or yolks) well, then add the sour cream or yogurt. To avoid curdling, take two ladles of the soup and pour them over the egg and cream mixture, stirring constantly. Then pour this mixture into the pot, stirring well.

Serving – Treat Yourself

The green bean soup is now ready! It is served hot and can be accompanied by a slice of fresh bread or crunchy croutons. A drizzle of olive oil on top before serving can add a touch of refinement.

Personalized Variation

If you want to add a flavor note, try adding some chopped garlic during the sautéing of the vegetables or a few drops of lemon juice before serving for an extra freshness.

Nutritional Benefits

Green bean soup is an excellent choice for a healthy diet. Green beans are rich in fiber, vitamins (especially vitamins A and C), and minerals, being low in calories, making it ideal for a light and nutritious meal. Each serving contains approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the amount of sour cream used.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I add meat to this soup?
Yes, you can add chicken or smoked meat for a richer flavor. Make sure to boil it before adding the vegetables.

2. How can I store the soup?
The soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. It is even tastier the next day when the flavors have had time to develop.

3. What other vegetables can I use?
You can experiment with carrots, zucchini, or even potatoes to vary the recipe.

Serving Recommendations

This soup pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or a refreshing drink, such as mint tea or freshly squeezed citrus juice. Additionally, a slice of homemade bread or warm polenta can perfectly complete the meal.

Conclusion

Green bean soup is a simple recipe but full of flavor and nutrients that brings health and good cheer in every spoonful. It is an excellent choice for the whole family, and preparing it can become a true tradition in your kitchen. Dare to experiment and adapt the recipe to make it truly yours! Enjoy your meal!