Grandma Chick's Green Bean Soup

1 (15-16 oz.) can cut green beans (do not drain)
4 C. water
2 beef bouillon cubes
1 tsp. onion powder
2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
*1 medium onion, sliced (optional)*
2 Tbsp. butter or margarine
2 Tbsp. flour
1/4 tsp. salt
1/8 tsp. pepper

Bring first 6 ingredients to a boil (green beans, water, bouillon , onion powder, potatoes, and onions) in large saucepan. Reduce heat to medium-low, simmer for 20 minutes. Combine the butter, flour, salt, and pepper in a medium saucepan to make a roux*. Cook over medium heat until brown. Ladle 1 1/2 -2 cups of soup broth into roux and mix well. Pour roux into green bean pot, and cook over high heat for 20 minutes.

*I find that after making the roux, you should take it off the heat and let it cool for 2-3 minutes. Then, add the soup broth and return to medium heat. Cook until thickened, stirring constantly. Now proceed to add to soup.

***For 1 pound of fresh green beans double all the above ingredients and omit the can of green beans. Your first step will be to snap your beans into bite size pieces, wash and place them in the water alone and cook for 20 on their own. Then place your potatoes (and onion slices if using) and proceed as above.

Enjoy! Élvez! Piacere! Gustirati! Radosť!