Green bean soup

Green Bean Soup - A Warm Embrace in Every Bowl

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 80 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Green bean soup is a classic dish loved by many generations, combining the simplicity of ingredients with the richness of flavors. This flavorful recipe is an excellent choice for a family meal or a light dinner. The soup is not only tasty but also nutritious, providing a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Over time, green bean soup has evolved into various versions, becoming a symbol of comforting and healthy cuisine.

Necessary ingredients:
- 250 g green beans (fresh or frozen)
- 1 large carrot
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red or yellow for a pop of color)
- 1 medium onion
- 1 smoked pork bone
- 1 large tomato
- 1 celery leaf
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- Salt (to taste)
- Water (approximately 1.5 - 2 liters)

Preparation of green bean soup:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing and peeling all the vegetables. Break the green beans into small pieces, about 3-4 cm long. This method helps with even cooking and makes for a pleasant presentation on the plate. Dice the carrot and bell pepper into small cubes to allow the flavors to release more efficiently.

2. Whole onion: An old trick to intensify the soup's flavor is to add the whole onion to boil. This will add a natural sweetness to the soup, and you can easily remove it at the end.

3. Boiling: In a large pot, add the smoked pork bone and fill with water, then place over medium heat. Allow the water to boil and add all the chopped vegetables – green beans, carrot, and bell pepper. Also add the whole onion. Cover the pot and let the soup boil for about 30 minutes.

4. Adding the tomato and celery: Once the vegetables have started to soften, slice the tomato and add it to the pot along with the celery leaf. These ingredients will add a pleasant acidity and fresh flavor to the soup.

5. Seasoning: Add salt to taste. It’s important to add salt sparingly, as the smoked bone may already bring a salty note. Cook the soup for another 15-20 minutes until all the vegetables are well cooked.

6. Finishing: At the end, remove the onion from the pot. Add the roux (a paste of flour and water) to thicken the soup, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Add the chopped parsley for an extra touch of freshness and flavor. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes for the flavors to blend.

Serving suggestions:
Green bean soup is served hot, ideally alongside a slice of fresh bread spread with butter or a dollop of sour cream. A bottle of white wine or freshly squeezed tomato juice perfectly complements the meal.

Useful tips:
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can omit the smoked bone and use a vegetable broth cube for flavor.
- You can also add other vegetables, such as zucchini or potatoes, to diversify the recipe.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use canned green beans? Yes, but make sure to rinse them well before adding them to the soup to remove excess salt.
- How long can I keep the soup? The soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can be reheated, but it is recommended not to boil it again to maintain the texture of the vegetables.

Nutritional benefits:
Green bean soup is rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, with a low-calorie content, making it an excellent choice for a healthy diet. A serving of soup contains approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Green bean soup is not just a recipe, but a memory of childhood flavors and family meals. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to enjoy a healthy meal, this soup will always bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Try it and enjoy every bite!