Green bean soup, known as “綠豆湯” (lǜdòu tāng) in Chinese, is a classic and beloved dessert that has been enjoyed for centuries. This comforting and sweet soup is a staple in Chinese cuisine, especially during hot summer months. Its simplicity and health benefits make it a favorite among many. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you on a delightful journey to explore the world of green bean soup, from its history to different variations and, most importantly, how to make it from scratch.
A Glimpse into the History of Green Bean Soup
Green bean soup has a long history in Chinese cuisine, dating back over a thousand years. It is believed to have originated during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD), although similar dishes existed even earlier. The simplicity of the dish, with mung beans as the main ingredient, has made it a popular choice for centuries. In traditional Chinese medicine, mung beans are considered cooling and detoxifying, making green bean soup a common choice during the hot and humid summer months.
Ingredients for Traditional Chinese Green Bean Soup
The basic ingredients for traditional Chinese green bean soup are refreshingly simple, but the result is nothing short of delightful. Here’s what you’ll need:
Mung Beans: Mung beans are the star of the show. They are small, green, and packed with nutrients. Mung beans can be found in Asian grocery stores or online.
Water: You’ll need a good amount of water to cook the mung beans to a soft, creamy consistency.
Rock Sugar: Rock sugar, or “冰糖” (bīngtáng) in Chinese, is the sweetener of choice for this dessert. It provides a gentle sweetness without overpowering the delicate mung bean flavor.
Step-by-Step Guide: Making Traditional Chinese Green Bean Soup
Now, let’s explore the process of making this delightful dessert:
Step 1: Prepare the Mung Beans
Start by rinsing the mung beans thoroughly under cold water to remove any impurities. Place the beans in a large bowl and cover them with water. Soak for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight. This step helps the beans soften and cook more quickly.
Step 2: Cook the Mung Beans
Drain the soaked mung beans and transfer them to a large pot. Add enough water to cover the beans completely. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the beans simmer, partially covered, for about 45 minutes to 1 hour. Stir occasionally and add more water if needed. The mung beans should be soft and slightly broken down when done.
Step 3: Sweeten with Rock Sugar
When the mung beans are soft and have thickened into a creamy consistency, it’s time to sweeten the soup. Add rock sugar to taste, stirring until it’s completely dissolved. You can adjust the sweetness to your preference.
Step 4: Serve
Once the rock sugar has melted and the soup has thickened to your liking, your green bean soup is ready to be served. Ladle it into bowls or cups, and serve it hot or cold, depending on your preference and the weather.
Variations of Green Bean Soup
While the traditional Chinese green bean soup is beloved by many, there are variations and adaptations that cater to different tastes. Here are a few popular ones:
Coconut Milk Green Bean Soup: This variation adds richness and creaminess to the soup by using coconut milk instead of water. It’s a delightful twist on the classic.
Sago and Tapioca Pearls: To add some texture, sago pearls or tapioca pearls are often included. They provide a pleasant chewiness that complements the smooth mung beans.
Pandan Green Bean Soup: Pandan leaves are used to infuse the soup with their unique aroma and flavor. The leaves are tied into a knot and simmered with the mung beans to create a fragrant dessert.
Red Bean and Green Bean Soup: This variation combines red beans and green beans for a delightful duo of flavors and textures. The sweetness of red beans complements the more subtle taste of green beans.
Green Bean Soup with Lotus Seeds: Adding lotus seeds to green bean soup provides a subtle crunch and a slightly nutty flavor. It’s a popular combination in Chinese desserts.
Serving and Enjoying Green Bean Soup
Green bean soup can be enjoyed hot or cold, making it suitable for any season. Here are some serving suggestions and variations:
Cold Green Bean Soup: To enjoy it cold, let the soup cool to room temperature, then refrigerate it for a few hours. Serve in chilled bowls with a sprinkle of crushed ice and a few mung beans on top.
Hot Green Bean Soup: For a warm treat, serve the soup fresh off the stove. The comforting warmth of the soup is perfect for cooler weather.
Garnishes: Green bean soup can be garnished with various toppings such as coconut milk, fruit slices, or a dollop of ice cream for an extra indulgence.
Accompaniments: It pairs well with other Chinese desserts like sesame balls, egg tarts, or glutinous rice dumplings.
Health Benefits of Green Bean Soup
In addition to its delightful taste, green bean soup offers several health benefits:
Cooling Properties: Mung beans are known in traditional Chinese medicine for their cooling properties, making this soup a popular choice during hot weather.
High in Fiber: Mung beans are rich in fiber, which can aid in digestion and promote a feeling of fullness.
Nutrient-Rich: Mung beans are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and plant-based protein.
Low in Calories: Green bean soup is a low-calorie dessert, making it a healthier option for those watching their calorie intake.
Conclusion:
Green bean soup is more than just a dessert; it’s a beloved tradition with a long history in Chinese cuisine. Its simplicity and versatility make it a delightful choice for any occasion, whether you’re seeking comfort or a refreshing treat.
