Potato soup with sour cream and smoked meat

Name: Potato soup with sour cream and smoked meat - Adelina G.
Ingredients: 1 kg potatoes; 1 kg smoked meat [pork belly]; 1 large carrot; 1 parsley root; 1/2 small celery; 1 onion; 1 bell pepper; 1 hot pepper; 1 tablespoon tarragon in vinegar; 200 ml sour cream; fresh parsley; 50 ml oil; salt; pepper

Soups - Potato soup with sour cream and smoked meat by Adelina G. - Recipia

Potato soup with sour cream and smoked meat - a traditional recipe, full of flavor, that combines the rich aromas of vegetables with the intense taste of smoked meat. This soup is a perfect choice for cool days, bringing a touch of warmth and comfort in every bowl. Here’s how to prepare it step by step, so you can enjoy a delicious result! Preparation time: 20 minutes Cooking time: 30 minutes Total: 50 minutes Number of servings: 6-8 Necessary ingredients - 1 kg potatoes (choose varieties that hold up well when boiled, like 'floră' potatoes) - 1 kg smoked meat (pork belly or smoked sausages) - 1 large carrot - 1 parsley root - 1/2 small celery - 1 onion - 1 bell pepper (you can choose a colored one for an extra touch of color) - 1 hot pepper (optional, for a spicy taste) - 1 tablespoon tarragon in vinegar - 200 ml sour cream (preferably fatty, for a creamy texture) - A handful of fresh green parsley - 50 ml oil (sunflower oil or olive oil) - Salt (to taste, may not be necessary) - Freshly ground pepper (to taste) Preparing the soup 1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by peeling and washing all the vegetables. Cut the potatoes into cubes or slices, depending on your preferences. The carrot, parsley root, and celery can be cut into small cubes. The onion and bell pepper will be diced, and the hot pepper will be finely chopped. 2. Preparing the smoked meat: Portion the smoked meat and wash it well under cold running water. This step is essential to reduce its smoky flavor intensity. After washing, blanch the smoked meat in boiling water for a few minutes; this will make it less salty and more pleasant to taste. 3. Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper, sautéing them for 1-2 minutes until they become slightly translucent. Then, add the carrot and continue to sauté for a few more minutes, stirring constantly. 4. Add the liquid: Pour 3-4 liters of water into the pot and add the blanched smoked meat, along with the finely chopped parsley root and celery. Let it boil for 15 minutes. During this time, the flavors will combine, and the soup will become rich and savory. 5. The potatoes in action: After 15 minutes of boiling, add the cut potatoes. Let them boil together with the other ingredients for another 15 minutes, until they become tender, but not overcooked. You can check the consistency with a fork. 6. Finalizing the soup: When the vegetables are cooked, add the chopped hot pepper and stir in the sour cream. Mix well to achieve a creamy texture. Add the chopped green parsley, freshly ground pepper, and tarragon in vinegar. Stir all the ingredients and let the soup simmer for another 2-3 minutes. 7. Adjust the taste: Before serving, taste the soup and add salt only if necessary, considering that the smoked meat may already be salty. Serving Potato soup with sour cream and smoked meat is served hot, ideal for cool evenings. You can add a spoonful of sour cream on top of each bowl and sprinkle a little fresh green parsley for an attractive look. This soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of freshly baked homemade bread or crispy croutons. Serving suggestions and variations If you want to add a touch of originality, you can include a few slices of pickled bell pepper or assorted pickles alongside the soup. You can also pair it with a traditional drink, such as a dry red wine or a pale beer. Nutritional benefits This soup is rich in nutrients, thanks to the fresh vegetables that provide essential vitamins and minerals. The smoked meat adds protein and an intense flavor, while the sour cream contributes to calcium intake. In total, a serving of soup has about 300-400 calories, depending on the amount of smoked meat and sour cream used. Frequently asked questions Can I use other types of meat instead of smoked meat? Yes, you can experiment with chicken or turkey, but the flavor will be different. The smoked meat gives a distinct and intense aroma. How can I store the soup? The soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little water to maintain its consistency. Can I make the soup vegetarian? Of course! You can omit the smoked meat and use additional vegetables for a rich flavor. Add spices like smoked paprika to give a smoky note. What other recipes can I make with leftover soup? If you have leftover soup, you can use it as a base for a delicious risotto or to prepare a pasta sauce. No matter how you choose to prepare it, potato soup with sour cream and smoked meat is a recipe that brings joy to all who savor it. Enjoy your meal!