Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound French beans, trimmed and chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Immersion blender or regular blender
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped French beans, broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the beans are tender.
3. Remove the pot from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Use an immersion blender or regular blender to puree the soup until smooth.
4. Return the pot to the stove and stir in the heavy cream. Heat the soup over low heat until warmed through.
5. Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
Medium heat for cooking
Serving size:
4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 180
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Protein: 4g
Sodium: 600mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- French beans can be substituted with green beans or haricots verts.
- Vegetable or chicken broth can be substituted with water and bouillon cubes.
- Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half or milk.
Variations:
- Add diced potatoes to the soup for a heartier version.
- Top the soup with croutons or grated cheese for added texture and flavor.
- Use different herbs such as rosemary or oregano for a different flavor profile.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to trim the ends of the French beans before chopping them.
- Use an immersion blender for easier cleanup.
- Let the soup cool slightly before blending to avoid burns.
Storage instructions:
Store leftover soup 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 warmed through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the soup in individual bowls with a sprig of fresh parsley on top.
Garnishes:
Fresh parsley or croutons
Pairings:
Crusty bread or a side salad
Suggested side dishes:
Roasted chicken or grilled fish
Troubleshooting advice:
If the soup is too thick, add more broth or water to thin it out. If it's too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to cook the soup to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it's safe to eat.
Food history:
French bean soup is a classic French dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. It's a simple and flavorful soup that highlights the fresh taste of the beans.
Flavor profiles:
The soup has a creamy and savory flavor with a hint of thyme.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the soup as a starter for a French-inspired meal.
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