Sharing is caring!

Warm Your Heart with Green Bean and Smoked Meat Vegetable Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy, heartwarming recipe that practically screams comfort, you’ve come to the right place! My Green Bean and Smoked Meat Vegetable Soup is the ultimate dish to bring warmth to your table, all without causing a major fuss in the kitchen. Perfect for busy days when you want to nourish your loved ones without sacrificing time or flavor, this soup hits the spot. Let’s dive into what makes this dish a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Green Bean and Smoked Meat Vegetable Soup

There’s something so fundamentally comforting about a hearty bowl of soup, isn’t there? Especially one that combines the freshness of green beans with the delightful smokiness of tender meat. This Green Bean and Smoked Meat Vegetable Soup is not just an easy-peasy recipe; it’s packed with flavor and nutrients that make it a guilt-free delight. Plus, it’s super versatile—ideal for those chilly evenings or served as a satisfying lunch throughout the week.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to whip up this delicious soup:

• 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 lb smoked meat (like ham hocks or smoked sausage), chopped
• 4 large carrots, diced
• 2 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 8 cups chicken stock (or vegetable stock)
• 1 teaspoon thyme (dried or fresh)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• A splash of olive oil for sautéing

Steps to Deliciousness

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent—about 4-5 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic, stirring for an additional minute. You’re not just cooking; you’re starting to create a heavenly aroma that will have everyone asking, “What’s for dinner?”

2. Add the Vegetables: Now, throw in those diced carrots and potatoes. Stir everything together and let them cook for about 5 minutes, allowing those flavors to marry beautifully.

3. Smoked Meat Magic: Time for the star of the show! Add your chopped smoked meat to the pot. Stir it in and let it sizzle for a couple of minutes. The smoky goodness really begins to shine at this point—your taste buds will thank you!

4. Pour in the Liquid Gold: Pour in the chicken or vegetable stock, bringing our concoction to a lively simmer. Season it with thyme, salt, and pepper, and don’t be shy! Let it bubble away for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

5. Add the Green Beans: Finally, toss in the green beans and let this beauty simmer for another 10-15 minutes or until the beans are tender but still bright. They’ll keep that lovely crunch we all adore.

6. Taste and Adjust: Give the soup a taste and adjust the seasonings as necessary.

And voilà! Your Green Bean and Smoked Meat Vegetable Soup is ready to be devoured!

Cooking Tips

• Personalize Your Soup: Don’t have smoked meat? No worries! Feel free to swap it for leftover roasted chicken or even keep it vegetarian by loading up on veggies like corn and bell peppers!
• Thick Soup Lover? If you like a heartier soup, you can mash a few of the potato cubes before adding the green beans. Instant creaminess!
• Storage is Key: You can keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freezer-friendly portions for up to 3 months. Just make sure to leave a little room in your container because, you know, soup expands when it freezes!

A Little Bit of Heart

This soup is a cherished creation in my family, often filling our kitchen with laughter and the delightful clinking of bowls. I remember the first time I made it for my kids; they went back for seconds and thirds! It became our go-to for cozy nights in, and it always sparks joy as we gather around the table to share stories.

FAQs

Can I substitute the smoked meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any leftover protein or even skip it altogether for a delightful vegetarian option.

How can I store leftovers?
Cool down the soup to room temperature, then place it in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer-lasting enjoyment!

Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, it actually gets better as the flavors meld together! Just reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed.

In the hustle and bustle of life, this Green Bean and Smoked Meat Vegetable Soup is a reminder to slow down, savor the moment, and share lovingly cooked meals with those who matter most. So grab your apron, pour yourself a glass of wine (or a cup of herbal tea), and let’s cook up some love and laughter together!

For more delightful recipes and cooking tips, don’t forget to check out my other comfort food favorites, or explore how to whip up simple yet exquisite weeknight dinners.

Meta Description: Green Bean and Smoked Meat Vegetable Soup is the perfect recipe for busy days. Quick, easy, and delicious, this dish will become your go-to meal. Try it today!

Green Bean and Smoked Meat Vegetable Soup

A cozy, heartwarming soup that combines green beans and smoked meat, perfect for chilly evenings or satisfying lunches.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Main Course, Soup

Cuisine: American, Comfort Food

Calories: 320

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main ingredients

• 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 lb smoked meat (like ham hocks or smoked sausage), chopped
• 4 large carrots, diced
• 2 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 8 cups chicken stock (or vegetable stock)
• 1 teaspoon thyme (dried or fresh)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• splash of olive oil for sautéing

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent—about 4-5 minutes.
2. Toss in the minced garlic, stirring for an additional minute.
3. Add the diced carrots and potatoes. Stir everything together and let them cook for about 5 minutes.
4. Add the chopped smoked meat to the pot. Stir it in and let it sizzle for a couple of minutes.
5. Pour in the chicken or vegetable stock, seasoning it with thyme, salt, and pepper. Let it bubble away for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
6. Toss in the green beans and let this simmer for another 10-15 minutes or until the beans are tender but bright.
7. Give the soup a taste and adjust the seasonings as necessary.

Notes

For a thicker soup, mash a few potato cubes before adding the green beans. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.