German Green Bean Soup Recipe (Grüne Bohnensuppe)

German Green Bean Soup Recipe (Grüne Bohnensuppe) is a delightful dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of green beans, potatoes, and savory herbs. This comforting soup is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a light summer meal. With its smooth texture and hearty ingredients, this recipe is sure to impress anyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy Preparation: This soup can be made in just about an hour, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with green beans and potatoes, it offers essential vitamins and minerals while being low in calories.
• Versatile Flavor: The combination of savory herbs and Turkey Turkey Bacon provides a rich taste that can satisfy any palate.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Enjoy the leftovers as a delicious lunch or freeze for future meals without losing flavor.
• Customizable: Feel free to add other vegetables or spices to make this soup your own.

Tools and Preparation

To ensure a smooth cooking experience, gather the necessary tools before you begin. Having the right utensils will streamline your preparation process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Medium to large saucepan
• Immersion blender
• Chopping board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Medium to large saucepan: Essential for cooking the soup evenly and allowing ample space for all ingredients.
• Immersion blender: Provides a quick way to blend the soup without transferring it to another container, saving time and reducing mess.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 6 slices Turkey Turkey Bacon, (chopped into 1-inch width)
• 1 small onion, (chopped thinly)
• 1.5 to 2 pounds green beans (750 grams to 1 kg), (trimmed and chopped into 1-inch length)
• 1 pound potatoes (250 grams), (peeled and diced)
• 3 to 4 cups stock
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon savory, (dried)
• Salt and pepper, (to season)

How to Make German Green Bean Soup Recipe (Grüne Bohnensuppe)

Step 1: Cook the Turkey Turkey Bacon

Place the Turkey Turkey Bacon in a cold, medium to large saucepan. Set it over medium-high heat. Cook until crispy, stirring occasionally.

Step 2: Sauté Onion

Once the bacon is crispy, add the chopped onion. Sauté until the onion softens, which should take about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Add the green beans, diced potatoes, savory, salt, pepper, and stock into the saucepan. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Bring your German bean soup to a boil. Then lower the heat and let it simmer until all vegetables are tender—about 30 minutes.

Step 5: Blend Part of the Soup

Transfer about one-third of the soup into a bowl. Use an immersion blender to puree it until smooth. Then add in the sour cream while blending for added creaminess.

Step 6: Combine Blended Soup with Remaining Soup

Pour the pureed bean soup back into the pan with remaining soup. Stir well.

Step 7: Final Seasoning Adjustments

Taste your bohnensuppe and adjust seasonings as needed. Heat through for another few minutes but do not let it boil again.

Step 8: Serve Your Soup

Remove your bohnensuppe from heat. Transfer into serving bowls. Garnish with parsley or additional bits of Turkey Turkey Bacon if desired. Serve warm!

How to Serve German Green Bean Soup Recipe (Grüne Bohnensuppe)

Serving German Green Bean Soup is an enjoyable experience that can be enhanced with various accompaniments. This soup is versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides or garnishes to elevate its flavors.

Garnish Options

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or dill on top for a burst of flavor.
• Turkey Turkey Bacon Bits: Add extra crispy bits for texture and taste.

Accompaniments

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a thick slice of crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.
• Salad: A light green salad with vinaigrette complements the soup’s richness.

Serving Temperature

• Warm: Serve the soup warm, as it enhances the flavors and makes it comforting.
• Chilled Variation: Try serving it chilled during hot months for a refreshing twist.

How to Perfect German Green Bean Soup Recipe (Grüne Bohnensuppe)

Perfecting your German Green Bean Soup involves attention to detail and a few helpful techniques. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out great every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh green beans and potatoes will provide the best flavor and texture in your soup.
• Adjust Seasoning Wisely: Taste as you go, adjusting the salt and pepper to your preference for optimal flavor.
• Blend for Texture: Pureeing part of the soup adds creaminess while retaining some chunky vegetables for interest.
• Stock Matters: Use high-quality stock for richer flavor; homemade stock can elevate your dish even further.

Best Side Dishes for German Green Bean Soup Recipe (Grüne Bohnensuppe)

Pairing side dishes with your German Green Bean Soup can enhance the meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread brushed with garlic butter adds a savory crunch.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring color and nutrition to your meal.
3. Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad can complement the soup’s texture beautifully.
4. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses offers a delightful contrast to the soup’s flavors.
5. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad packed with herbs provides a light counterpart.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Peppers stuffed with rice or grains make for a hearty side option.
7. Pasta Salad: Cold pasta salad with vegetables is perfect for a summer meal alongside the soup.
8. Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickled veggies add acidity that balances the rich flavors of the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making German Green Bean Soup can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish.

• Overcooking the Beans: Cooking green beans too long will make them mushy. Aim for a tender-crisp texture by adding them to the pot after the potatoes have softened.

• Ignoring Seasoning: Forgetting to season your soup can lead to blandness. Always taste your soup before serving and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.

• Skipping the Pureeing Step: Not pureeing part of the soup can result in a less creamy texture. Remember to blend about one-third of the soup for a smooth consistency.

• Using Low-Quality Stock: Poor stock can diminish the overall flavor. Opt for homemade or high-quality store-bought stock for the best results.

• Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Stale or old ingredients can affect flavor. Always use fresh green beans and potatoes for optimal taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store German Green Bean Soup in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing German Green Bean Soup Recipe (Grüne Bohnensuppe)

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of containers for expansion during freezing.

Reheating German Green Bean Soup Recipe (Grüne Bohnensuppe)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat on medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about this delicious German Green Bean Soup Recipe.

What is German Green Bean Soup Recipe (Grüne Bohnensuppe)?

German Green Bean Soup is a hearty dish featuring green beans, potatoes, and flavorful broth, often with added turkey bacon for richness.

How do I customize my German Green Bean Soup?

Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or celery, or use different herbs like thyme or rosemary for unique flavors.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the turkey bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock for a vegetarian version.

How can I make this soup creamier?

For a creamier texture, add more sour cream during blending or include a splash of heavy cream before serving.

Final Thoughts

This German Green Bean Soup Recipe (Grüne Bohnensuppe) is not only filling but also versatile enough to adapt to various tastes. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices. Give it a try today!