Transylvanian Green Bean Soup (With Smoked Ham)

Transylvanian Green Bean Soup (With Smoked Ham) is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings warmth to any table. This recipe is perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends, offering a delightful blend of green beans, fresh vegetables, and smoky ham. The infusion of herbs and garlic elevates the taste, while a touch of vinegar adds the perfect tang. Enjoy it on chilly evenings or whenever you crave comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of smoked ham and fresh vegetables creates a depth of flavor that will tantalize your taste buds.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, this soup comes together effortlessly in just over an hour.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect as a main dish or side, it’s ideal for both casual meals and more festive occasions.
• Nutrient-Packed: Filled with nutritious ingredients like green beans, carrots, and herbs, this soup is as wholesome as it is delicious.
• Comforting Feel: A warm bowl of Transylvanian Green Bean Soup is sure to bring comfort on cold days.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Wooden spoon
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Essential for simmering the soup evenly and accommodating all the ingredients comfortably.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your pot, helping to mix everything thoroughly.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures quick and safe chopping of vegetables.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for cutting ingredients while keeping your workspace tidy.

Ingredients

This recipe features green beans, lots of vegetables, and smoky ham seasoned with herbs and garlic. The soup is soured with a little bit of vinegar and served with sour cream.

Vegetables & Meat

• 1 large onion (diced)
• 4-5 garlic cloves (diced)
• 1 pound ham or any smoked meat (cubed)
• 2 large carrots (diced)
• 1 red pepper (diced)
• 1 celery stalk (diced)
• 1 potato (small, diced)

Beans & Seasoning

• 2 pounds green beans (fresh or frozen, cut into bite-size pieces)
• 4-5 tablespoons tomato sauce or 2 medium chopped tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground pepper
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon thyme

Liquids & Herbs

• 8 cups water
• 1 teaspoon dried dill (or a small bunch of fresh dill, chopped)
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or a small bunch of fresh parsley, chopped)
• 2-3 tablespoons vinegar or to your taste

To Serve

• Sour cream for serving

How to Make Transylvanian Green Bean Soup (With Smoked Ham)

Step 1: Sauté the Base

Heat up the oil in a large soup pot. Add the cubed ham, diced onion, and minced garlic. Sauté them on medium heat for about 3-4 minutes until the onion looks translucent.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

Add the chopped carrots, red pepper, celery, and potato. Continue sautéing until these vegetables become softer and their flavors meld together.

Step 3: Incorporate Green Beans

Mix in the cleaned green beans (either fresh or frozen), along with paprika, salt, pepper, and thyme. Sauté everything together for another minute.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes

Stir in either tomato sauce or freshly diced tomatoes until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup

Pour in 8 cups of water. Allow it to simmer on low heat for about 20-25 minutes until the green beans are tender.

Step 6: Adjust Seasoning

Taste the soup to see if additional seasoning is needed.

Step 7: Add Vinegar

Gradually add vinegar to achieve your desired sourness level. Taste frequently to find the right balance since some prefer it more sour than others.

Step 8: Finish with Herbs

Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped parsley and dill over the top for added flavor.

Step 9: Serve

Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream on top for a creamy finish. Enjoy your delicious Transylvanian Green Bean Soup!

How to Serve Transylvanian Green Bean Soup (With Smoked Ham)

Serving Transylvanian Green Bean Soup (With Smoked Ham) can enhance the experience of this hearty dish. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this comforting soup.

With Sour Cream

• Add a generous dollop of sour cream on top for a creamy texture that balances the flavors of smoky ham and vegetables.

Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or dill over each bowl just before serving to add a burst of freshness and color.

Crusty Bread

• Serve with slices of crusty bread or baguette for dipping, which complements the soup’s rich flavors beautifully.

Salad Side

• Pair with a light green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to add a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.

Pickles or Fermented Vegetables

• Accompany your soup with pickles or fermented veggies for a tangy crunch that complements the smokiness of the ham.

Hot Peppers

• For those who enjoy a kick, serve sliced hot peppers on the side to add spice to each bowl according to personal taste.

How to Perfect Transylvanian Green Bean Soup (With Smoked Ham)

To ensure your Transylvanian Green Bean Soup (With Smoked Ham) turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh green beans and seasonal vegetables will enhance the flavor and texture of your soup.

• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Add salt, pepper, and vinegar little by little; this way, you can tailor the taste exactly to your liking without overpowering it.

• Simmer Slowly: Allowing the soup to simmer gently helps meld all the flavors together while keeping the vegetables tender but not mushy.

• Taste as You Go: Regularly tasting the soup during cooking allows you to adjust seasoning and acidity levels until it’s just right.

• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors deepen after sitting, making it even tastier the next day.

Best Side Dishes for Transylvanian Green Bean Soup (With Smoked Ham)

Pairing side dishes with your Transylvanian Green Bean Soup (With Smoked Ham) can elevate your meal experience. Here are some perfect options.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every last bit of delicious soup.

2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the smoothness of the soup.

3. Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes provide a hearty side that complements the flavor profile of smoked ham.

4. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread offers a delightful sweetness that pairs well with savory soups like this one.

5. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and spices make for an appealing and filling side dish.

6. Cheese Platter: A simple cheese platter featuring sharp cheeses can balance out the richness of your main dish beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Transylvanian Green Bean Soup (With Smoked Ham) can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Incorrect Vegetable Preparation: Not chopping vegetables uniformly can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure to dice all vegetables into similar sizes for a balanced texture.
• Overcooking the Beans: Cooking green beans too long can make them mushy. Aim for a tender yet crisp texture by following the cooking time closely.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Forgetting to taste and adjust seasoning can leave your soup bland. Always taste before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or vinegar as needed.
• Using Low-Quality Ham: Poor-quality smoked meat can affect the flavor of your soup. Opt for good-quality ham to enhance the overall taste.
• Skipping Fresh Herbs: Not adding fresh herbs at the end can diminish the soup’s aroma. Always finish your dish with fresh parsley and dill for a burst of flavor.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Transylvanian Green Bean Soup (With Smoked Ham)

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Transylvanian Green Bean Soup (With Smoked Ham)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and heat until warm, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until heated through, stirring halfway.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Transylvanian Green Bean Soup (With Smoked Ham)?

Transylvanian Green Bean Soup (With Smoked Ham) is a hearty soup made with green beans, various vegetables, and smoky ham, seasoned with herbs and served with sour cream.

How long does it take to prepare?

The total time to prepare Transylvanian Green Bean Soup (With Smoked Ham) is about 65 minutes, including both prep and cooking times.

Can I substitute the smoked ham?

Yes, you can use other types of smoked meats or even turkey if you prefer a lighter option while still keeping that smoky flavor.

Is this soup suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! You can freeze Transylvanian Green Bean Soup (With Smoked Ham) for up to three months without losing its flavor or texture.

Final Thoughts

Transylvanian Green Bean Soup (With Smoked Ham) is not only flavorful but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or adjusting the seasoning. It’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners at home—give it a try!