Green Bean Soup

This hearty soup, thick with potatoes, carrots, chunks of ham and green beans is a favorite in many homes. Serve this soup with some wholesome brown bread. This recipe is in the From Oma's Kitchen Cookbook.

1 Meaty smoked ham bone

1 medium onion, chopped

10 cups / 2.5 L cold water

4 cups / 1 L green beans

4 carrots, chopped

4 medium potatoes, diced

1 tsp / 5 ml peppercorns in a spice bag

5 sprigs summer savory (when available)

1 tsp / 5 ml salt

½ cup / 125 ml sour cream

In a large pot, combine the ham, onions and water. Cook until the meat is tender, about 2 hours.

Prepare the beans, carrots and potatoes. Remove the ham and strain the broth. Return the broth to the pot. Add the prepared vegetables and peppercorns. Cook until tender. Season as desired and add the savory. Simmer ½ hour longer. Cut up the meat and return to the soup. If more water is required, add before the cream. Serve soup without cream and allow your guests to add cream at the table individually. Serves 10 people.

Beef Barley Soup

This soup is easy quick to make and delicious with cheese and wholesome brown bread. This recipe is in the From Oma's Kitchen Cookbook.

1 lb / 500gm stewing beef, cut small chunks

1 medium onion, chopped

1 Tbsp / 15 ml vegetable oil

10 cups / 2.5 L water

4 Oxo beef envelopes

½ cup / 125 ml pearl barley

3 medium potatoes, diced

3 carrots, diced

2 celery stalks, diced

2 tsp / 10 ml Worcestershire Sauce

1 tsp / 5 ml salt

Pepper to taste

Sauté beef and onion in oil. Add remaining ingredients. Bring mixture to a boil and simmer, covered for an hour.

Serve with a hearty brown bread and cheese slices.