Bean Thread Soup(Guamanian)
Bean Thread Soup is a hearty Guamanian dish featuring tender beef, flavorful tomatoes, and delicate bean threads that create a comforting, satisfying meal. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, its savory broth and vegetables make it a wholesome choice for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large stewpot, brown the beef chunks and add the chopped onion.
- Cook for 5 minutes, then add 4 cups of water and bring to a boil.
- Add the tomato paste and stewed tomatoes.
- After 5 minutes, add the bean threads.
- Cook over medium heat for 20 minutes, then add the mixed vegetables.
- Lower the heat and simmer until the beef is tender.
- Add salt and pepper to taste and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider marinating the beef chunks in a mixture of soy sauce and garlic before browning. If bean threads are unavailable, you can substitute with rice noodles or even thin egg noodles. Adjust the cooking time accordingly for different noodles. Experiment with adding spices like ginger or chili flakes for an extra kick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side of rice for a heartier meal. Consider serving alongside Linda Davis' Fantastic Zucchini Relish for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the consistency. Avoid boiling to prevent the bean threads from becoming too soft.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bean Thread Soup(Guamanian) contains roughly 266 calories, with 16g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (51% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (47% of the Daily Value), and protein (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 735mg per serving (32% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, this soup can be made in advance and actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just be sure to store the bean threads separately if you're planning to keep leftovers, as they can absorb too much liquid and become mushy.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! The soup freezes well, so you can portion it into individual servings for easy reheating during the week. Just make sure to cool the soup completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
What can I substitute for frozen mixed vegetables?
You can use fresh vegetables like sliced carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas if you prefer. Just add them to the pot a little earlier to ensure they cook through. Alternatively, a mix of chopped kale or spinach can add a nutritious boost.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).