How to Make French Green Bean Soup
French green bean soup, known as "soupe de haricots verts," is a delightful dish that combines the crispness of green beans with a variety of flavors, resulting in a rich, nourishing soup. Whether you're looking for a healthy meal or a comforting bowl of soup, this recipe will guide you through the process of making a delicious French green bean soup.
Ingredients Needed
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by washing the green beans thoroughly. Trim the ends and cut the beans into 1-inch pieces. Dice the onion and mince the garlic to prepare them for cooking.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until it becomes soft and translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Green Beans and Potatoes
Add the chopped green beans and diced potato to the pot. Stir well to combine the vegetables with the aromatics. If desired, sprinkle in the dried thyme for added flavor.
Step 4: Add Broth
Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, ensuring that the vegetables are covered. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the green beans and potatoes are tender.
Step 5: Blend the Soup
Once the vegetables are cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can blend only half of the soup and leave the rest as is. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender, but be careful with the hot liquid.
Step 6: Final Seasoning and Serve
After blending, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If you desire a creamier texture, you can stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and enjoy!
Storage Tips
This French green bean soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a bit of water or broth if the soup has thickened. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months; ensure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Whether served as an appetizer or a main dish, this French green bean soup is a simple, yet elegant addition to any meal. Enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors that make it a favorite in many kitchens!