Yellow wax bean soup is a delicious and light summer soup perfect for showcasing the vibrant flavor of these fresh beans. It’s also quite versatile and can be adapted to your preferences. Here’s a breakdown to get you started:
Ingredients:
- Base:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for richer flavor)
- 4 cups yellow wax beans, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1-2 cups water (depending on desired thickness)
- Seasonings:
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or other favorite herbs like basil or oregano)
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- Optional Additions:
- 1-2 cups chopped potatoes, diced carrots, or other vegetables
- 1 cup chopped tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (for a creamier soup)
- Chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill for garnish
Instructions:
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Build the Broth: Add the vegetable broth, yellow wax beans, and water (depending on desired thickness) to the pot. Season generously with salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the beans are tender-crisp.
- Flavor Boost (Optional): If using additional vegetables like potatoes or carrots, add them during the simmering process to allow them to cook through. You can also include chopped tomatoes for a richer flavor profile.
- Creamy Twist (Optional): For a creamier soup, stir in heavy cream or coconut milk towards the end of cooking. Season with a squeeze of lemon juice to balance the flavors.
- Final Touches: Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill before serving.
Tips:
- For a smoother soup, you can use an immersion blender to partially puree some of the beans after cooking.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This soup is also delicious served chilled on a hot summer day.
Variations:
- Hungarian Yellow Wax Bean Soup: Inspired by Hungarian cuisine, you can add a paprika kick by incorporating a teaspoon of Hungarian paprika powder while sauteing the onions. You can also finish the soup with a dollop of sour cream for a tangy touch.
- Hearty Version: For a more substantial meal, add cooked shredded chicken or sausage to the soup during the simmering stage.
- Spicy Twist: Like things spicy? Add a chopped jalapeno pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper while sauteing the aromatics for an extra kick.
With its simplicity and versatility, yellow wax bean soup is a perfect summer staple. So grab your fresh beans, get creative with the variations, and enjoy a taste of summer in every bowl!