Green bean soup

Bean Soup - A Comforting Recipe for the Soul

Bean soup is one of those dishes that makes us feel at home, even when we are far away from it. This traditional recipe, full of flavor and nutrients, is perfect for chilly days or when we want to indulge in a warm bowl of comfort. The soup is known for its versatility, being adaptable to various tastes and preferences.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients

- 4-5 liters of water
- 500 g of green beans (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 2 medium onions
- 2 carrots
- 1 red bell pepper
- A bunch of fresh parsley
- A bunch of celery
- 4-5 fresh lovage leaves
- 4 tablespoons of sunflower or olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of paprika (sweet or spicy, depending on preference)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3-4 cloves of garlic

Preparation

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by peeling the onion, carrot, and bell pepper. Wash them well under cold running water. Chop the onion into small cubes, slice the carrot into thin rounds, and cut the bell pepper into strips. These vegetables will add extra flavor and color to the soup.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a deep pan, heat the 4 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, and bell pepper and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they become translucent. Then add the teaspoon of paprika and mix well to develop the flavors.

3. Boiling the soup: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. When the water starts to boil, add the sautéed vegetable mixture. Let it simmer over medium heat for 20 minutes until all the vegetables are soft.

4. Adding the beans: If using canned beans, drain and rinse them under cold water, then add them to the pot. If using frozen or fresh beans, ensure they are pre-cooked (if fresh, boil them separately until tender). Let everything simmer for another 10-15 minutes.

5. Seasoning and finishing: Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as desired. Finally, finely chop the parsley, celery, lovage, and garlic. Add them to the pot, stirring well. These fresh herbs will add a note of freshness and intense flavor to your soup.

6. Serving: Let the soup sit for a few minutes to blend the flavors. Serve it hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or crispy croutons.

Tips and Tricks

- For a deeper flavor: You can also add a teaspoon of tomato paste during the sautéing of the vegetables.
- Variations: Substitute the bell pepper with a sweet pepper or add zucchini for a different texture. You can also introduce some slices of potatoes to thicken the soup.
- Calories and nutritional benefits: A serving of bean soup is rich in fiber and protein, containing about 150-200 calories, depending on the ingredients. It is a healthy option for a low-calorie meal but rich in nutrients.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use canned beans? Yes, it is ideal for saving time. Make sure to rinse it well before use.
- How long can I keep the soup? You can keep the soup in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, and for freezing, it is recommended to do so without adding fresh herbs, which may wilt upon thawing.
- What other recipes can I try? If you like the soup, I recommend trying a vegetable soup or a pumpkin cream soup, which are just as comforting and healthy.

Bean soup is more than just a simple recipe; it is a memory of family meals, moments spent together, and proof that food cooked with love can bring joy every day. Enjoy your meal!