Sour bean pod soup with sour cream

Sour Green Bean Soup with Sour Cream - A Comforting Delight

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4-6

Sour green bean soup is one of those recipes that reminds us of family meals, cool days, or moments when we crave a comforting dish. This soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, thanks to the fresh and healthy ingredients. Additionally, the sour cream added at the end gives it a creamy and rich taste, turning it into an unforgettable dish.

Recipe History

Green bean soup has always been a popular choice in many culinary cultures, appreciated for its fresh taste and ingredient versatility. It is often associated with summer meals but can be enjoyed in any season. This recipe is easy to adapt, allowing you to experiment with various spices and ingredients.

Necessary Ingredients

- 500 g frozen yellow green beans
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 3 carrots
- 1 celery
- 1 parsnip
- 1 large white onion
- Lovage, vegetable seasoning, white pepper, dried parsley (to taste)
- 1 bunch of fresh green parsley
- Vinegar (or another souring ingredient, to taste)
- Olive oil (for sautéing)

Step by Step for a Perfect Soup

1. Preparing the Ingredients
Start by peeling and chopping the onion, carrots, parsnip, and celery. It is important to cut them evenly to ensure even cooking. A method that enhances the flavors and texture is to use a large grater for the carrots and celery.

2. Boiling the Soup Base
In a large pot, add water and bring it to a boil. Once the water starts boiling, add the onion and parsnip. These ingredients will give a special flavor to your soup. Let them boil for 10 minutes.

3. Sautéing the Vegetables
In a pan, add olive oil and, over medium heat, add the grated carrots and celery. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, until they become slightly translucent and fragrant. This step is essential, as sautéing the vegetables brings out their natural sweetness.

4. Adding the Green Beans
After the vegetables in the pan have been sautéed, add the frozen green beans. Let them combine in the pan for another 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help the beans absorb the flavors of the sautéed vegetables.

5. Combining the Ingredients
Once the beans are well mixed with the vegetables in the pan, transfer everything to the pot with the soup base. Season with vegetable seasoning, white pepper, lovage, and dried parsley, to taste. Let it boil over medium heat for about 15-20 minutes, until all the vegetables are tender.

6. Finalizing the Soup
Add the tomato paste and a few drops of vinegar to achieve that specific acidity of sour soups. Cook for another 5 minutes. Now it's time to prepare the sour cream mixture: in a bowl, place the sour cream and add 2 ladles of hot soup, mixing well to avoid curdling. Pour the mixture into the pot and stir gently.

7. Finishing and Serving
When the soup is almost ready, add the chopped fresh parsley for an extra touch of freshness. Once you've tasted the soup and adjusted the seasoning to your liking, you can serve it hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or polenta.

Practical Tips

- Choosing the Beans: If you prefer fresh beans, make sure they are well cleaned and have a crunchy texture. Frozen beans are usually just as tasty and easier to use.
- Vegetarian Option: You can omit the sour cream and add a splash of coconut milk for a vegan option.
- Spices: Play with the spices! A pinch of smoked paprika or a bit of garlic can add an interesting note.

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 the soup be stored?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, and the flavor improves as it sits.

- What other ingredients can I add?
You can add potatoes, zucchini, or even a few slices of bell pepper for a different flavor and texture.

Nutrition and Benefits

Green bean soup is an excellent source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Green beans are rich in vitamin C, vitamin K, and folic acid, making them a great ally for the immune system and cardiovascular health. Additionally, the sour cream adds a touch of calcium and protein, making this soup a balanced meal.

Serving Suggestions

This soup pairs perfectly with a slice of whole-grain bread or warm polenta. You can also add some toasted bread croutons or, for an extra flavor boost, a drizzle of olive oil when serving.

In conclusion, sour green bean soup with sour cream is not just a meal but a family story, a symbol of comfort and the joy of cooking together. I invite you to try it and share this recipe with your loved ones! Bon appétit!