German Green Bean Soup Recipe (Grüne Bohnensuppe)

Name: German Green Bean Soup Recipe (Grüne Bohnensuppe)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: 6 slices turkey bacon (chopped); 1 small onion (chopped); 1.5 to 2 pounds green beans (trimmed and chopped); 1 pound potatoes (peeled and diced); 3 to 4 cups chicken stock; 1/4 cup sour cream; 1 teaspoon dried savory; Salt and pepper to season

Published: February 13, 2026

by Simon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of fresh green beans, hearty potatoes, and aromatic herbs brings a depth of flavor to every spoonful.
Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, this soup is simple enough for any home cook to master.
Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or as a starter; this soup fits perfectly into any meal plan.
Healthy Choice: Packed with nutrients from vegetables and lean turkey bacon, it’s a wholesome option that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Comforting Texture: The blend of pureed and whole ingredients creates a satisfying texture that warms you up.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience easier, gather these essential tools beforehand. Having the right equipment will help streamline your preparation and ensure successful results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Medium to large saucepan
Immersion blender
Chopping board
Knife

Importance of Each Tool

Medium to large saucepan: Ideal for cooking the soup evenly while allowing enough space for all ingredients.
Immersion blender: This handy tool lets you puree your soup directly in the pot, saving time on cleanup.
Chopping board: A stable surface for chopping ingredients ensures safety while preparing your vegetables.
Knife: A sharp knife is essential for quick and precise chopping of onions, green beans, and potatoes.

Ingredients

The following ingredients come together to create this delicious German Green Bean Soup (Grüne Bohnensuppe):

6 slices Turkey Bacon, (chopped into 1-inch width)
1 small onion, (chopped thinly)
1.5 to 2 pounds green beans (750 grams to 1 kg), (trimmed and chopped into 1-inch length)
1 pound potatoes (250 grams), (peeled and diced)
3 to 4 cups stock
1/4 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon savory, (dried)
Salt and pepper, (to season)

How to Make German Green Bean Soup Recipe (Grüne Bohnensuppe)

Step 1: Cook the Turkey Bacon

Start by placing the Turkey Bacon in a cold, medium to large saucepan over medium-high heat. Cook until crispy.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion

Once the turkey bacon is crispy, add the chopped onion to the pan. Cook until the onion softens.

Step 3: Add Vegetables and Seasoning

Next, add the green beans, diced potatoes, savory, salt, pepper, and stock into the pan. Stir well to combine.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Bring your German bean soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer until all vegetables are tender.

Step 5: Blend Part of the Soup

Transfer about a third of the soup mixture into a bowl. Using an immersion blender, puree it until smooth.

Step 6: Combine Puree with Soup

Return the pureed soup back into the pan. Stir well to mix everything together.

Step 7: Add Sour Cream

Incorporate sour cream into the blended soup. Continue blending until fully combined.

Step 8: Final Adjustments

Taste your bohnensuppe and adjust seasoning if needed. Gently reheat without boiling.

Step 9: Serve with Garnish

Remove from heat and ladle your bohnensuppe into serving bowls. Optionally garnish with parsley or additional Turkey Bacon bits before serving.

How to Serve German Green Bean Soup Recipe (Grüne Bohnensuppe)

Serving German Green Bean Soup is a delightful experience. This hearty soup can be enjoyed in various ways, making it perfect for any occasion.

Garnish Ideas

Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or dill on top for added flavor and a pop of color.
Turkey Bacon Bits: Add a few extra crispy bits on top for a savory crunch.

Accompaniments

Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of fresh bread to soak up the delicious broth.
Salad: Pair with a light salad for a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.

Presentation Tips

Soup Bowls: Use colorful or rustic bowls to enhance the visual appeal of your dish.
Drizzle of Cream: A swirl of sour cream on top can elevate both taste and presentation.

How to Perfect German Green Bean Soup Recipe (Grüne Bohnensuppe)

To make your German Green Bean Soup truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh green beans and potatoes will enhance flavor and texture.
Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go, adding salt and pepper slowly to avoid oversalting.
Simmer Gently: Allow the soup to simmer rather than boil to preserve the vibrant color of the vegetables.
Blend Consistently: Ensure even blending for a smooth texture; use an immersion blender for convenience.
Experiment with Herbs: Try adding thyme or bay leaves for additional depth in flavor.

Best Side Dishes for German Green Bean Soup Recipe (Grüne Bohnensuppe)

Pairing side dishes with your German Green Bean Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

Garlic Bread: Crispy and flavorful, this bread complements the soup wonderfully.
Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette adds freshness to your meal.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted carrots and zucchini provide a tasty contrast.
Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed quinoa salad enhances the nutritional value of your meal.
Cheese Platter: Assorted cheeses offer richness that pairs nicely with the soup’s flavors.
Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice and vegetables create a satisfying side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making German Green Bean Soup (Grüne Bohnensuppe) can be simple, but some common mistakes may affect the final dish. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

Skipping the seasoning – Failing to season your soup adequately can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Overcooking the vegetables – Cooking the beans and potatoes for too long can turn them mushy. Aim for tender yet firm vegetables for the best texture.
Using cold stock – Adding cold stock will lower the temperature of your soup, extending cooking time. Always warm your stock before adding it to the pot.
Not blending enough – If you want a creamier texture, don’t hesitate to blend more of the soup. This helps achieve a smooth consistency while retaining some vegetable chunks.
Neglecting garnishes – Skipping garnishes like fresh herbs or crispy Turkey Bacon bits can reduce visual appeal and flavor. A little garnish can elevate your dish significantly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Let the soup cool completely before refrigerating to avoid condensation.

Freezing German Green Bean Soup Recipe (Grüne Bohnensuppe)

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Leave space at the top of the container as liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating German Green Bean Soup Recipe (Grüne Bohnensuppe)

Oven – Preheat at 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through.
Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even warming.
Stovetop – Pour into a saucepan and heat over medium until hot, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the German Green Bean Soup Recipe (Grüne Bohnensuppe) that might help you.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the Turkey Bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock for a delicious vegetarian option.

How can I customize my German Green Bean Soup Recipe (Grüne Bohnensuppe)?

Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or peas for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also adjust spices according to your taste preference.

What type of potatoes should I use?

Waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold work best in this recipe as they maintain their shape during cooking.

Can I use frozen green beans?

Absolutely! Frozen green beans are convenient and will work just as well. Just add a few extra minutes to your cooking time if needed.

Final Thoughts

The German Green Bean Soup Recipe (Grüne Bohnensuppe) is not only hearty but also easy to prepare. Its blend of flavors makes it perfect for any season, whether served hot on a chilly day or warm during summer evenings. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite veggies or herbs. Enjoy this delightful soup with friends and family!

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