Looking for the perfect refreshing treat to beat the summer heat or soothe your system after indulging in rich foods? This Easy Vegan Cooling Green Bean Soup is your answer! This traditional Asian dessert, originally shared by choyyuen, offers a unique blend of detoxification and delightful flavor. It's naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, making it a wonderful option for various dietary preferences.
Forget the usual white sugar and pandan leaves. This recipe elevates the classic green bean soup with the exquisite aroma of osmanthus and the deep, complex notes of black sugar. The result is a dessert soup that's not just cooling but also incredibly aromatic and satisfying. It's a sweet, healthy escape perfect for any time you need a light, revitalizing pick-me-up.
Whether you're curious about traditional Asian desserts, seeking healthy vegan options, or simply looking to cool down on a warm day, this recipe is designed for ease and enjoyment.
What You'll Need
Yields: 2-3 servings Prep time: 10 minutes + overnight soaking Cook time: 30-45 minutes
Equipment:
- Large pot or saucepan
- Sieve or colander
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried green beans (mung beans)
- 6-8 cups fresh water (plus extra for soaking)
- 1/4 - 1/2 cup osmanthus black sugar (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon dried osmanthus flowers, plus extra for garnishing
All the simple ingredients laid out for preparing this delicious Green Bean Soup.
Instructions:
- Rinse the dried green beans thoroughly under cold running water. Place them in a large bowl and cover them with plenty of fresh water. Allow them to soak overnight (at least 8 hours).
- The next day, drain the soaked green beans well using a sieve and rinse them once more.
- Transfer the rinsed green beans to a large pot or saucepan. Add 6-8 cups of fresh water, ensuring the beans are fully submerged with ample water.
- Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer gently, uncovered, for 30-45 minutes, or until the green beans become soft and tender but still hold their shape (not mushy). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Once the beans are soft, stir in the osmanthus black sugar until it fully dissolves. Start with 1/4 cup and add more if you prefer a sweeter taste.
- Add 1 teaspoon of dried osmanthus flowers to the soup. Simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the fragrant osmanthus aroma to infuse the soup.
- Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before serving.
- Serve warm or chilled. Garnish with additional dried osmanthus flowers for an extra touch of elegance and aroma.
Enjoy a refreshing bowl of this unique Green Bean Soup.
Tips for Success & Variations
- Perfect Bean Texture: The key to this soup is soft but not mushy beans. Soaking them overnight is crucial. If they are still too firm after 45 minutes, continue simmering and check every 5-10 minutes.
- Adjusting Sweetness: The amount of osmanthus black sugar can be adjusted to your preference. For a lighter sweetness, reduce the amount, or for a richer flavor, add a little more. You can also use other sweeteners like regular sugar or maple syrup.
- Flavor Boosts: For an alternative aromatic twist, you can add a few pandan leaves during the simmering process, removing them before serving. A small slice of ginger can also add a subtle warmth, especially if you're aiming for a "heaty" food remedy.
- Thicker or Thinner: For a thicker soup, you can lightly mash a small portion of the cooked green beans against the side of the pot. For a thinner consistency, simply add a little more water.
- Serving Suggestions: This dessert soup is fantastic on its own, but you can also serve it with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of coconut cream for an extra creamy touch.
Ready to whip up this delightful dessert? This easy-to-follow recipe ensures you can enjoy a taste of Asian tradition with a unique, aromatic twist.
Share your culinary creations on abillion and inspire others with your plant-based journey!
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