Green bean soup with chicken breast

Green Bean Soup with Chicken Breast - A Comforting Delight

Green bean soup with chicken breast is a classic recipe that combines fresh and healthy ingredients, offering a rich and comforting taste. This soup is perfect for cool autumn or winter days, but can be enjoyed anytime, becoming a family favorite. Additionally, it is an easy recipe to prepare, which can be adapted to everyone's preferences.

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

Ingredients:
- 800 g green beans (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 chicken breast (approximately 250 g)
- 2 large carrots
- 1 celery root (approximately 150 g)
- 1 parsnip
- 1/2 bell pepper (preferably red or yellow for added color)
- 1 white onion
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 egg
- 1-2 tablespoons magic borscht (or to taste)
- Olive oil (for sautéing)
- Spices (white pepper, salt)
- 1-2 tablespoons fresh (or dried) lovage
- Fresh chopped parsley, for serving
- Sour cream, for serving (optional)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by cleaning the green beans. Cut the ends and break the beans into pieces about 3-4 cm long. Wash them well under cold running water.

2. Boiling the chicken breast: In a large pot, add the cleaned and washed green beans along with the chicken breast. Add enough water to cover the ingredients, then add 2 tablespoons of vegetable seasoning (or a mix of your favorite spices). Place the pot over medium heat and bring to a boil.

3. Preparing the vegetables: While the chicken and green beans are boiling, you can prepare the vegetables. Slice the carrots thinly, dice the bell pepper, and cut the parsnip into rounds. Grate the celery for a finer texture.

4. Sautéing the vegetables: In a frying pan, add a splash of olive oil and let it heat up. Then, add the chopped vegetables and sauté for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step will enhance the flavors and provide a delicious base for the soup.

5. Combining the ingredients: After the chicken breast has boiled for 20-25 minutes, add the sautéed vegetables to the soup pot. Also, add the whole onion for extra flavor. Season with white pepper and magic borscht, then let it boil for another 10-15 minutes.

6. Finishing the soup: When the soup is nearly done, add the 3 tablespoons of tomato paste. Thin with water if necessary, depending on the desired consistency. In a separate bowl, beat the egg and gradually add it to the pot, stirring continuously to create delicious strands.

7. Cooking the chicken breast: Remove the chicken breast from the soup and let it cool slightly. Slice it thinly and add it back to the pot. Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as preferred.

8. Serving: Once the soup is ready, add the fresh chopped parsley. Serve the soup hot, with a spoonful of sour cream on top for added creaminess.

Practical tips:
- Green beans: If using frozen green beans, there is no need to thaw them before adding to the pot. They will cook just as well.
- Chicken breast: You can replace the chicken breast with turkey meat or opt for a vegetarian version, leaving out the chicken and adding tofu or mushrooms.
- Variations: You can experiment with other vegetables, such as zucchini or peas, to diversify the soup's flavor.
- Maintaining flavors: For an even more intense flavor, you can add a bay leaf or a clove of sautéed garlic while sautéing the vegetables.

Nutritional benefits:
Green bean soup with chicken breast is an excellent choice, being rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Green beans contain fiber, which aids digestion, while chicken breast provides lean protein, essential for maintaining muscle mass. This dish is ideal for a balanced diet and can be included in your daily meal plan.

Calories:
A serving of green bean soup with chicken breast (approximately 300 ml) contains around 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of oil and sour cream used. It is a filling and healthy option for lunch or dinner.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can use turkey, pork, or even fish, depending on your preferences.

2. How can I make the soup spicier?
Add a hot pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper to intensify the flavor.

3. Can I keep the soup for the next day?
Yes, the soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. The flavor improves as the ingredients meld together.

This green bean soup with chicken breast is more than just a dish. It is a culinary experience that brings joy and warmth to every bowl. Whether you serve it at a family meal or enjoy it alone, each bite will remind you of the wonderful moments spent around the table. So put on your apron and enjoy this delicious recipe!