Green bean soup with smoked pancetta

Green Bean Soup with Smoked Pancetta: A Flavorful and Aromatic Recipe

Total time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6

Who doesn't love a warm, hearty soup filled with fresh and aromatic ingredients? This green bean soup with smoked pancetta is an excellent choice for a comforting meal, perfect for both chilly days and family gatherings around the table. This recipe will not only enrich you with flavors but also bring a touch of nostalgia, reminding you of lovingly prepared family meals.

Ingredients:
- 500 g fresh green beans (choose firm, fresh green beans)
- 200 g smoked pancetta (pork belly with an intense flavor and characteristic aroma)
- 1 medium onion (for sweetness)
- 1 red bell pepper (for a touch of freshness and color)
- 1 stalk of celery (for added flavor)
- 2 carrots (for a hint of sweetness)
- 3-4 tablespoons of tomato paste (for a rich taste)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley (for freshness)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Magic bors (about 1 tablespoon, to sour the soup)
- Sour cream for serving (optional, for added creaminess)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the beans: Start by selecting and preparing the green beans. Break them into smaller pieces, about 3-4 cm long. This will ensure even cooking and make the soup easier to consume. Choose fresh beans with vibrant color and no blemishes.

2. Boiling the beans: Place a large pot of water on the stove. When the water starts to boil, add the broken beans and let them boil for about 15 minutes. This step helps soften the beans and intensify the flavors.

3. Preparing the base: In another pot, bring 3 liters of water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, drain the previously boiled beans and add them to the pot of boiling water. Let them cook for 15-20 minutes, depending on the desired doneness. Check the beans occasionally – they should be tender but not mushy.

4. Adding the vegetables: Meanwhile, finely chop the onion, bell pepper, and celery. Once the beans are cooked, add these vegetables to the pot, along with salt and pepper to taste. This combination will add depth and flavor to your soup.

5. Smoked pancetta: Heat a small pot over medium heat and add the smoked pancetta. Sauté for a few minutes until crispy and it releases its delicious fat. Then, add the pancetta to the pot with the beans, stirring well. The smoky flavor of the pancetta will transform this soup into a true delicacy.

6. Tomato paste and carrots: Add the tomato paste and sliced carrots to the pot with the beans and let it simmer until the carrots are well cooked, about 10 minutes. The carrots will add a touch of sweetness that balances the salty flavors of the pancetta.

7. Sour the soup: Towards the end, add the magic bors to sour the soup. This will give it a distinct, fresh note. If you have fresh parsley, add a few chopped sprigs – its aroma will significantly enhance the taste.

8. Finishing the soup: Once all the ingredients are cooked, turn off the heat and add a cup of cold water to the pot. This trick will help stabilize the flavors. You can add sour cream when serving for an extra touch of finesse.

Serving: The soup is served hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and, optionally, a spoonful of sour cream. It pairs perfectly with a slice of fresh bread, and a glass of white wine is the ideal choice to complete the meal.

Useful tips:
- If you like stronger flavors, you can add a minced garlic clove during cooking.
- Instead of pancetta, you can opt for bacon or even a smoked vegetarian product, depending on your preferences.
- The green bean soup is even tastier the next day when the flavors have had time to develop.

Nutritional benefits: This soup is not only delicious but also healthy. The beans are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, while the pancetta adds a source of protein. Additionally, carrots contain antioxidants, and parsley is an excellent source of vitamin C.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen beans? Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the soup.
- How can I make the soup spicier? Add a finely chopped hot pepper or a little cayenne pepper.
- What other recipes can I try with beans? You can try a green bean salad with tomatoes and feta cheese or sautéed green beans with garlic for a quick and healthy meal.

Enjoy preparing this green bean soup with smoked pancetta, savoring every step of the process. This is not just a recipe, but a culinary experience that brings together flavors and traditions. Enjoy your meal!