German Green Bean Soup: A Hearty and Flavorful Comfort Food
Warm, hearty, and full of delicious flavors, this German Green Bean Soup is a traditional favorite that brings comfort with every spoonful! Made with tender green beans, potatoes, and crispy bacon, this soup is both satisfying and easy to make. It’s the perfect dish for a cozy meal, whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly day or just craving something comforting.
Ingredients
- 4 slices of bacon, diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cups (720ml) chicken or vegetable broth
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 lb (450g) fresh green beans, trimmed and cut in half
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp dried marjoram (or thyme as an alternative)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Essential Tools
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Knife and cutting board
- Ladle for serving
Ingredient Substitutions and Additions
- Bacon: For a vegetarian version, skip the bacon or substitute with smoked paprika or plant-based bacon for a similar smoky flavor.
- Broth: Chicken broth adds depth, but vegetable broth works well for a lighter, plant-based option.
- Marjoram: Traditional to German cooking, marjoram adds an earthy flavor, but you can use thyme or rosemary for a similar effect.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Bacon and Onion
In a large pot, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy. Remove half of the bacon and set it aside for garnish. Add the diced onion to the pot with the remaining bacon and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
Step 2: Add Broth, Potatoes, and Seasonings
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, then add the cubed potatoes, green beans, bay leaf, and marjoram. Stir to combine, then bring the soup to a boil.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes and green beans are tender and the flavors are well combined.
Step 4: Season the Soup
Remove the bay leaf from the pot, then taste and season the soup with salt and black pepper as needed.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with the reserved crispy bacon bits and fresh parsley for a pop of color and added flavor. Enjoy hot!