Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 pound of green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 ripe pears, peeled and chopped
- 4 cups of chicken broth
- 1/2 pound of bacon, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Immersion blender or regular blender
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the chopped green beans and pears to the pot and stir to combine.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the green beans and pears are tender.
6. While the soup is simmering, cook the chopped bacon in a separate pan until crispy.
7. Once the soup is done simmering, use an immersion blender or regular blender to puree the soup until smooth.
8. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve the soup hot, topped with the crispy bacon.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Temperature:
Simmer over low heat
Serving size:
4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 250
Fat: 16g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 10g
Sodium: 800mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make this recipe vegetarian.
- If you don't have green beans, you can use frozen peas or asparagus instead.
- If you don't have pears, you can use apples or quince.
Variations:
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the soup for a warm, spicy flavor.
- Top the soup with croutons or grated cheese for added texture.
- Use smoked bacon for a smoky flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to trim the green beans and cut them into small pieces so they cook evenly.
- Use ripe pears for the best flavor.
- If you don't have an immersion blender, let the soup cool slightly before blending it in a regular blender.
Storage instructions:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat the soup in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the soup in a bowl with a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche on top.
Garnishes:
- Crispy bacon
- Croutons
- Grated cheese
- Chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives
Pairings:
- Crusty bread
- Salad with a tangy vinaigrette
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted vegetables
- Grilled chicken or fish
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the soup is too thick, add more chicken broth or water to thin it out.
- If the soup is too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes to reduce and thicken.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the bacon until crispy to avoid any foodborne illnesses.
- Store any leftovers in the refrigerator promptly.
Food history:
Birnen-Bohnen-Speck-Suppe is a traditional German soup that originated in the Rhineland region. It is typically made with green beans, pears, and bacon, and is a hearty and comforting dish.
Flavor profiles:
This soup is sweet and savory, with a rich and creamy texture. The sweetness of the pears pairs well with the salty bacon, while the green beans add a fresh and earthy flavor.
Serving suggestions:
Serve this soup as a main course for a cozy dinner at home, or as a starter for a dinner party.
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Region: German