Green bean soup with smoked meat

Green bean soup with chisătura – a traditional recipe full of flavors, memories, and joy. This soup takes us back to warm summer days spent with loved ones. It is especially dear to me, reminding me of my grandmother who, with her skill, transformed simple ingredients into unforgettable moments.

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

Necessary ingredients:

- 600 g green beans
- 2 medium onions
- 3 carrots
- ½ celery root
- ½ bunch of fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons sunflower oil
- 3 slices of smoked bacon (or smoked ham/bacon, according to preference)
- 750 ml broth (or fresh tomatoes in season)
- Salt and Delikat to taste
- 6 cloves of garlic

Chisătura – the secret of flavor

Chisătura is a savory mix that gives the soup an unmistakable aroma. It is prepared by finely chopping the smoked bacon together with the fresh parsley using a knife on a cutting board, also known as a "dog". This traditional technique allows the intense flavors of the bacon to be released, blending perfectly with the other ingredients.

Preparation steps:

1. Preparing the beans: Wash the green beans well under cold running water. Cut each bean into 3 equal parts. This will help cook the beans evenly and facilitate the absorption of flavors from the soup.

2. Onions and carrots: Peel and finely chop the onion. Peel the carrots and cut them into rounds, and chop the celery into small cubes. These vegetables will add sweetness and depth to the soup.

3. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Then, add the carrots and celery. Sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes until they soften.

4. Cooking the beans: Add the green beans to the pot, then cover everything with water (about 1-1.5 liters). Cover the pot with a lid and let it boil over medium heat. This stage lasts about 15-20 minutes or until the beans become tender.

5. Preparing the chisătura: While the beans are boiling, prepare the chisătura. Cut the bacon into small cubes and chop it together with the parsley on the cutting board. This combination will add a smoky note to the soup.

6. Finalizing the soup: When the beans are almost done, add the broth (or fresh tomatoes) and mix well. Season with salt and Delikat to taste. Add the garlic cloves, which you can crush or finely chop to intensify the flavor. Let the soup come to a boil again.

7. Incorporating the chisătura: Finally, add the chisătura to the soup and let it boil for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

8. Serving the soup: Serve the soup hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread (preferably with onion for an even more intense flavor). A spoonful of sour cream on top is optional but recommended for added creaminess.

Practical tips:

- Variations of ingredients: If you want to change the recipe a bit, you can use smoked ham or bacon instead of bacon. These will provide a different but equally delicious flavor.

- Fresh beans: When in season, you can use fresh green beans, which will give the soup a crunchier texture and a more vibrant taste.

- Spicier soup: If you like a spicy flavor, add some finely chopped chili pepper during the sautéing of the vegetables. This will give the soup a hint of heat.

Nutritional benefits:

Green bean soup is a healthy dish, rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, and the vegetables add essential antioxidants. This dish is hearty and represents an excellent option for a balanced meal.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other vegetables?
Of course! You can add zucchini, potatoes, or even cabbage to diversify the recipe.

2. How long can I keep the soup?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat it before serving.

3. Is the soup vegan?
This recipe is not vegan due to the bacon, but you can omit the bacon and use olive oil and spices to retain the delicious flavor, creating a vegan version.

4. What drinks pair well with the soup?
A green bean soup pairs wonderfully with a dry white wine or freshly squeezed lemonade, which will add a note of freshness.

Personal note:

Green bean soup with chisătura is more than just a dish for me. It is a memory of summers spent at my grandmother's, of warm days and stories told around the table. I hope this recipe accompanies you in moments of joy and offers you the chance to create unforgettable memories with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!