German Green Bean Soup Recipe (Grüne Bohnensuppe)

German Green Bean Soup Recipe (Grüne Bohnensuppe) is a delightful and hearty dish that brings together the fresh flavors of green beans and potatoes, complemented by the savory taste of Turkey Bacon. This soup is not only perfect for cozy dinners but also light enough for warm days, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this soup can be made in just about an hour.
• Rich in Flavor: The combination of fresh green beans, potatoes, and herbs delivers a deliciously satisfying taste in every spoonful.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a starter or main course, this soup can be enjoyed any time of day.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and lean turkey bacon, it’s a nutritious option that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
• Great for Meal Prep: This soup stores well, making it perfect for leftovers or batch cooking.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your German Green Bean Soup (Grüne Bohnensuppe), you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These will help you ensure everything is cooked perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Medium to large saucepan
• Immersion blender
• Chopping board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Medium to large saucepan: Ideal for cooking the soup evenly while providing enough space for all ingredients.
• Immersion blender: Perfect for pureeing the soup to a creamy consistency without transferring to another bowl.
• Chopping board: Provides a safe surface for cutting vegetables efficiently.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures easy chopping of ingredients like onions and potatoes.

Ingredients

For this German Green Bean Soup (Grüne Bohnensuppe), gather the following ingredients:

For the Soup Base

• 6 slices 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)

Additional Ingredients

• 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 Bacon

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

Step 2: Sauté the Onion

Add the chopped onion to the pan once the turkey  bacon is crispy. Sauté until it softens.

Step 3: Add Vegetables and Seasoning

Once the onion has softened:
* Add the green beans, potatoes, savory, salt, pepper, and stock.
* Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Bring your German bean soup to a boil. Lower the heat and let it simmer until all vegetables are tender.

Step 5: Puree Part of the Soup

Transfer about one-third of the soup into a bowl:
* Use an immersion blender to puree it until smooth.
* Stir in the sour cream while blending.

Step 6: Combine and Reheat

Return the pureed mixture back into the pan:
* Stir well to combine with the remaining soup.
* Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
* Reheat gently without boiling.

Step 7: Serve Your Soup

Remove from heat:
* Transfer your bohnensuppe into serving bowls.
* Garnish with parsley or additional Turkey Bacon bits if desired.
Enjoy your homemade German Green Bean Soup!

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

Serving German Green Bean Soup is simple and delightful. This soup is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways to elevate your dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions.

Garnish Options

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or dill on top for a fresh flavor boost.
• Turkey Bacon Bits: Add extra crispy Turkey Bacon on top for added texture and flavor.

Accompaniment Suggestions

• Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread for dipping, enhancing the meal’s heartiness.
• Salad: Pair with a light salad dressed in vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.

Serving Temperature

• Hot: Serve the soup hot for a comforting experience on chilly days.
• Chilled: Enjoy it chilled as a refreshing dish during warm weather.

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

To make your German Green Bean Soup truly exceptional, consider these handy tips.

• Bold Flavor: Use homemade stock instead of store-bought for richer taste.
• Texture Balance: Blend only part of the soup to maintain some chunky vegetables for texture.
• Herb Freshness: Add fresh herbs like thyme or basil at the end of cooking for vibrant flavors.
• Season Gradually: Taste and adjust seasoning during cooking to achieve the perfect balance.
• Cream Variations: For a lighter version, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt.

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

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

1. Garlic Bread: A perfect match that complements the soup’s flavors while adding crunch.
2. Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with seasonal greens adds freshness and balances the meal.
3. Potato Wedges: Crisp potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide an enjoyable textural contrast.
4. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad can add nutritional value and heartiness to your meal.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted seasonal vegetables provide a savory side that pairs well with the soup.
6. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can offer richness and variety alongside the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your German Green Bean Soup (Grüne Bohnensuppe), it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect its flavor and texture.

• Bold Preparation: Forgetting to chop the vegetables uniformly can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure all ingredients are cut into similar sizes for a consistent texture.
• Bold Using Low-Quality Stock: A poor-quality stock can dull the soup’s flavor. Always opt for a flavorful stock or broth that will enhance your dish.
• Bold Overcooking Vegetables: Cooking the vegetables too long can make them mushy. Keep an eye on them and remove from heat as soon as they are tender.
• Bold Skipping Seasoning: Neglecting to taste and adjust seasoning can result in bland soup. Always season gradually and taste throughout cooking for the best results.
• Bold Not Blending Enough: Failing to blend part of the soup might leave it too chunky for some tastes. Be sure to puree enough to create a creamy consistency while still leaving some texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the soup in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing German Green Bean Soup Recipe (Grüne Bohnensuppe)

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe bags or containers; it can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating German Green Bean Soup Recipe (Grüne Bohnensuppe)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe pot until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes until hot, stirring between sessions.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low on the stove, stirring frequently until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the German Green Bean Soup Recipe (Grüne Bohnensuppe) that might help you while preparing this delightful dish.

What is a traditional ingredient in German Green Bean Soup Recipe (Grüne Bohnensuppe)?

A traditional ingredient includes green beans paired with potatoes and herbs, creating a rich flavor profile.

Can I customize my German Green Bean Soup?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables or adjust spices according to your taste. Feel free to make it your own!

How do I make my soup thicker?

To thicken your soup, you can blend more of it or add a cornstarch slurry made with water and cornstarch before reheating.

Is this soup suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This soup stores well, making it perfect for meal prep. Just follow proper storage guidelines for freshness.

Final Thoughts

This German Green Bean Soup Recipe (Grüne Bohnensuppe) is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect as a light meal on warm days or as a cozy dish during colder months. With easy customization options, you can make this recipe truly yours. Give it a try today!