German Green Bean Soup
A hearty German green bean soup featuring fresh green beans, potatoes, and creamy milk, perfect for cozy meals and suitable for vegetarians seeking comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Snap and cut the green beans.
- Combine the beans, water, salt, and pepper in a large kettle.
- Bring to a boil and cook until the beans are about tender.
- Add the diced potatoes and continue cooking until vegetables are done.
- Add the milk, evaporated milk, and butter to the pot.
- Return to a boiling point and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider sautéing the minced onion in a bit of butter before adding it to the soup. If fresh green beans are unavailable, frozen ones can be used as a substitute. Adjust the seasonings to taste, adding herbs like thyme for extra depth. To enhance the dish, serve with a side of Potato Pancakes (Placki Kartoflane) for a delightful contrast.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty soup can be served as a main course or as a starter before a meal. Pair it with crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal. It also goes well with a side of Fried Okra Pancakes for a Southern twist, enhancing the comfort food experience.
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 medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of water or milk to reach your desired consistency before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of German Green Bean Soup contains roughly 1977 calories, with 20g protein, 178g carbohydrates, and 133g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (224% of the Daily Value), potassium (71% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (57% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1216mg per serving (53% 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 use canned green beans instead of fresh?
While fresh green beans provide the best texture and flavor, canned green beans can be used in a pinch. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, adding them towards the end of the cooking process to avoid mushiness.
Is there a dairy-free option for this soup?
Yes, you can substitute the milk and evaporated milk with plant-based alternatives like almond milk or coconut milk. Ensure that the alternative has a similar consistency to maintain the soup's creamy texture.
How can I make this soup more filling?
To make the soup heartier, consider adding cooked beans or lentils for protein. You could also incorporate diced carrots or celery for added nutrition and flavor, making it a more substantial meal.
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).