Yellow bean soup

Yellow Bean Borscht - A Warm Winter Feast

Who doesn't love to indulge in a steaming bowl of soup on a cold winter's day with snow falling? Yellow bean borscht is a perfect choice, full of flavor, health, and comfort. This recipe not only embraces your soul but also helps you enjoy the benefits of natural foods. Let's embark on this culinary journey!

Preparation Time

- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 6

Ingredients

- 700 grams of yellow bean paste (preferably frozen)
- 2 medium onions, peeled and diced
- 2-3 carrots, peeled and grated or diced
- 2-3 peeled tomatoes (you can use canned tomatoes, preferably from Italy)
- 2 tablespoons of corn or sunflower oil
- A sprig of fresh thyme (frozen can also be used)
- Celery leaves (or any preferred greens)
- Salt, to taste
- Magic borscht (or natural, if available)
- A tablespoon of vegetable mix or vegetable Delikat
- Sour cream and hot pepper (optional, for an extra kick)

Brief History

Borscht, in general, is a traditional dish in many cultures, with deep roots in the culinary customs of communities that valued the richness of vegetables and aromatic plants. It is a dish that has evolved over time, adapted to local ingredients and the culinary preferences of each family. Yellow bean borscht, with its creamy texture and comforting taste, is a great way to enjoy a nourishing meal, especially in the cold season.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the vegetables: In a tall pot, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and carrots. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until they become translucent and release their aromas. If desired, you can also add a diced celery stalk. The flavors will blend, and your soup will develop a unique taste.

2. Add water: After the vegetables have sautéed, add between 2 and 3 liters of water to the pot. Cover it and let it boil until it reaches a boiling point. This is a perfect moment to fill your home with divine aromas.

3. Beans and spices: When the water begins to boil, add the cleaned and broken yellow beans, the thyme sprig, a pinch of salt, and Delikat. Let the soup simmer over medium heat, covered, for 12-15 minutes. The beans will become tender, and the flavors will combine perfectly.

4. Tomatoes: Once the beans are cooked, add the peeled and finely chopped tomatoes. You can use a blender to turn them into a smooth paste, which will thicken the borscht and give it a fresh note. Let the soup boil for a few more minutes until the tomatoes release all their flavors.

5. Finalizing the borscht: As the soup is nearing completion, taste and adjust with salt, Delikat, and magic borscht, to your liking. Once you achieve the desired taste, turn off the heat and add the finely chopped greens. Cover the pot and let it sit for at least 5 minutes. This step will allow the flavors to develop and harmonize.

6. Serving: Serve the borscht hot, adding finely chopped fresh greens to the bowl. If desired, add a tablespoon of sour cream and hot pepper for an extra flavor and texture. You can accompany the borscht with homemade bread, making every bite a feast.

Practical Tips

- Frozen beans: This is an excellent choice as it retains its nutrients and flavor. Ensure you thaw it before adding it to the soup.
- Vegetables: You can experiment with other vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, to add variety.
- Vegetable mix: If you don't have Delikat on hand, you can opt for natural spices like sweet paprika, pepper, and dried herbs.

Nutritional Information

- Calories: A serving of yellow bean borscht contains approximately 200 calories, depending on the ingredients used.
- Nutritional benefits: Yellow beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, beneficial for digestion and cardiovascular health.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use dried beans?
Yes, but make sure to soak them overnight and cook them before adding them to the soup.

2. How can I make the borscht more sour?
You can add more magic borscht or the juice of a lemon for a tangy and refreshing taste.

3. Can I add meat?
Of course! You can add chicken or pork, which will cook along with the vegetables for a richer flavor.

Possible Variations

To give your borscht a personal touch, you can try adding spices like turmeric for a golden hue and extra health benefits or even a splash of soy sauce for a more intense flavor.

Conclusion

Yellow bean borscht is more than just a simple soup; it is a culinary experience that brings you comfort and warmth on chilly winter days. With every bite, you will feel enveloped by rich flavors and culinary traditions that surround this dish. So, don't hesitate to try it and share it with your loved ones! Enjoy your meal!