Warm up with this delightful Transylvanian Green Bean Soup featuring tender green beans and smoky ham. It’s a cozy bowl of goodness that’s easy to make!
Get ready for a flavor punch! I love how the smoky ham makes this soup extra special. Plus, it’s a perfect way to enjoy a healthy veggie—what’s not to love? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Beans: Fresh green beans are key for this soup’s texture. If they’re not in season, frozen green beans work well too. Just add them in the last 10-15 minutes of cooking to keep them from getting mushy.
Smoked Ham: Smoked ham is essential for that rich, smoky flavor. If you prefer a lighter option, diced turkey or chicken can substitute for ham. For a vegetarian version, skip the meat and add more beans or lentils.
Broth: While you can use water, vegetable broth adds more depth. If you’re low on broth, mix half water and half broth. For gluten-free diets, be sure to check the broth labels.
Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and tang! If you want it lighter, try Greek yogurt instead. You can also use coconut cream for a dairy-free version, although that will alter the flavor slightly.
How Do I Sauté Smoked Ham and Vegetables Correctly?
Getting the sauté right sets the flavor foundation for the soup. Here’s how to do it:
- Use medium heat to avoid burning the ingredients. Start with the onions, carrots, and bell peppers, cooking them until they’re soft.
- Add the garlic and ham next. This lets the ham’s flavors infuse into the vegetables. Cook until the ham is just browned, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking. This process builds a wonderful base for your soup.
With these tips and techniques, you’re set to make a delicious soup that warms the heart! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Easy Transylvanian Green Bean Soup with Smoked Ham
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450 g) fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 6 cups (1.4 liters) water or vegetable broth
- 1 cup smoked ham, diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or lard
- 2 medium tomatoes, peeled and chopped (or 1 cup canned tomatoes)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup sour cream or heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice (optional, for a slight tang)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
- Bread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup takes about 15-20 minutes of prep time and 30-40 minutes of cooking time. In total, you will need around 1 hour to have a warm, comforting bowl of soup ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Green Beans:
Start by washing the fresh green beans thoroughly. Trim off the ends and cut them into approximately 2-inch pieces. Once done, set them aside while you work on the other ingredients.
2. Sauté Aromatics and Ham:
In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil or lard over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, diced carrots, and red bell pepper. Sauté these vegetables for about 5-7 minutes until they start to soften and the onion is translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and diced smoked ham, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until the ham starts to brown and gives off a delicious aroma.
3. Add Tomatoes and Herbs:
Next, stir in the peeled and chopped tomatoes, along with dried thyme, dried dill, and the bay leaf. Let this mixture cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down and mix with the other ingredients to create a flavorful base.
4. Add Liquid and Green Beans:
Pour in the water or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the prepared green beans. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the soup cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the green beans and carrots are tender.
5. Optional Thickening:
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mix the all-purpose flour with a small amount of water or sour cream to create a smooth slurry. Stir this into the soup and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes until the soup thickens slightly.
6. Add Sour Cream and Season:
Lower the heat to a gentle warmth and slowly stir in the sour cream or heavy cream until it’s well blended into the soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and if you like, add vinegar or lemon juice for a little tang. Adjust the seasoning as needed based on your preferences.
7. Serve:
Finally, remove the bay leaf and ladle the soup into bowls. If you want, garnish each bowl with chopped fresh parsley for a touch of brightness. Serve hot with rustic bread on the side and any extra sour cream for those who want it.
Enjoy your comforting and flavorful Easy Transylvanian Green Bean Soup with Smoked Ham! It’s sure to warm your heart and fill your belly! 🍲
FAQ for Easy Transylvanian Green Bean Soup with Smoked Ham
Can I Use Frozen Green Beans Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans! Just add them to the soup in the last 10-15 minutes of cooking to ensure they retain their texture without becoming mushy.
What If I Don’t Have Smoked Ham?
If you don’t have smoked ham, try using turkey, chicken, or even diced sausage for a similar smoky flavor. For a vegetarian version, you can skip the meat and add extra beans or lentils instead.
How Should I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just make sure to store it properly in the fridge, and reheat it slowly when you’re ready to serve.
