Sour Soup with Green Beans

Sour Soup with Green Beans Recipe from Moldova

Region / culture: Moldova | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Sour Soup with Green Beans is a traditional Eastern European dish that is both hearty and flavorful. This soup is perfect for a cold winter day or when you are craving a comforting meal. The combination of green beans, tomatoes, and a touch of sour cream creates a delicious and satisfying dish that is sure to please your taste buds.

History

Sour Soup with Green Beans has been a staple in Eastern European cuisine for centuries. This dish originated as a way to make use of seasonal vegetables and create a hearty and nutritious meal. The sour cream adds a tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the green beans and tomatoes. This soup has been passed down through generations and continues to be a beloved dish in many households.

Ingredients

2 qt / 2 liters water
10 oz / 300 g green beans
1 onion
1 carrot
1 parsley root
1 lb / 500 g tomatoes
1 tbsp butter
1 tsp flour
0.5 cup sour cream or yogurt
chopped parsley and dill
salt

How to prepare

In a pan, fry the finely chopped vegetables in butter along with the flour.
Next, pour in the water and add the cut beans and salt. Allow it to boil over low heat until the beans become tender.
Once the beans are tender, add the boiled and drained tomatoes. Continue boiling until the dish is completely done.
Finally, add the chopped parsley and dill.
When serving, mix in some sour cream.

Variations

Add cooked chicken or beef for a heartier version of this soup.
Substitute green beans with other vegetables such as peas or zucchini for a different twist.
Use vegetable broth instead of water for a richer flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to finely chop the vegetables to ensure they cook evenly and release their flavors into the soup.

- Allow the soup to simmer over low heat to allow the flavors to meld together and create a rich and delicious broth.

- Adjust the amount of sour cream to your liking - add more for a creamier soup or less for a lighter dish.

- Garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley and dill for a burst of flavor and color.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Sour Soup with Green Beans hot with a dollop of sour cream on top and a sprinkle of fresh dill for garnish. Enjoy with crusty bread or crackers on the side.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to sauté the vegetables before adding the water to enhance their flavors.

- Allow the soup to simmer over low heat to develop a rich and flavorful broth.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use olive oil instead of butter for a healthier option.

- Substitute Greek yogurt for regular yogurt for a creamier texture.

Make Ahead Tips

This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Sour Soup with Green Beans in a rustic bowl with a swirl of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh dill on top for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this soup with a crisp green salad or a side of crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

200 per serving

Carbohydrates

25g per serving

Fats

5g per serving

Proteins

8g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This soup is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as potassium and fiber from the green beans and tomatoes.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (butter and yogurt) and gluten (flour).

Summary

This soup is a nutritious and balanced meal that is rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. It is a great option for a healthy and satisfying lunch or dinner.

Summary

Sour Soup with Green Beans is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy meal at home. This soup is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a healthy and satisfying option for lunch or dinner. Enjoy the tangy taste of the sour cream mixed with the sweetness of the green beans and tomatoes in every spoonful.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a strong memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Sour Soup with Green Beans. It was many years ago when I was just a young girl, living in a small village in the countryside. My grandmother, who was an excellent cook, had invited a friend over for dinner.

As I watched my grandmother prepare the meal, I was fascinated by the way she chopped and stirred, adding just the right amount of each ingredient. The aroma that filled the kitchen was simply intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the final dish.

When the soup was finally ready, my grandmother ladled it into bowls and served it to her friend and me. As soon as I took my first spoonful, I was hooked. The combination of the tangy sourness and the crunch of the green beans was unlike anything I had ever tasted before.

After dinner, I begged my grandmother to teach me how to make the soup. She smiled and told me that the recipe was a family secret, passed down from generation to generation. But she also said that she would teach me, as long as I promised to never reveal the recipe to anyone outside the family.

And so, my grandmother began to teach me the art of making Sour Soup with Green Beans. She showed me how to select the freshest green beans, how to chop them just right, and how to simmer them with the broth until they were tender. She also taught me the secret ingredient that gave the soup its unique sour flavor – tamarind paste.

Over the years, I have made the soup countless times, each time perfecting the recipe a little more. I have shared it with friends and family, who have all marveled at its deliciousness. And each time I make it, I am reminded of that first time I saw my grandmother prepare it, and how she passed down her knowledge and love of cooking to me.

The recipe for Sour Soup with Green Beans is more than just a dish to me – it is a piece of my family's history, a connection to my past. And I will continue to make it for years to come, passing it down to future generations so that they too can taste the magic of this beloved recipe.