Lamb soup

Lamb soup: a traditional delicacy that combines the flavors and warmth of a family meal. This recipe is perfect for bringing a touch of nostalgia to every plate, often associated with holidays and special moments spent with loved ones. Let’s embark on a culinary journey and discover together how we can bring this savory dish into our kitchen.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 50 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients

- 1 kg bone-in lamb meat
- 1 large onion
- 1 carrot
- 1/2 celery root
- 1 teaspoon preserved tarragon (or fresh, if available)
- 20 g rice (about 2 tablespoons)
- 50 ml sour cream
- 1 egg
- Salt to taste
- 2 liters of water

Preparing the lamb soup

Step 1: Preparing the meat
Start by washing the lamb meat well under cold running water. This will remove impurities and help achieve a clear and aromatic soup. Once you’ve washed the meat, cut it into large pieces if it isn’t already portioned.

Step 2: Boiling the meat
Place the meat in a large pot and add the 2 liters of water. Add a little salt to enhance the flavors. Set the pot over medium heat and wait for it to reach boiling point. Meanwhile, finely chop the onion and add it to the pot. This is the moment when the soup will begin to develop flavor.

Step 3: Removing the foam
As the water begins to boil, you will notice foam forming on the surface. It is important to remove this foam with a skimmer or a spoon, as it contains impurities that can affect the final appearance and taste of the soup.

Step 4: Cooking the meat
Allow the meat to simmer over medium heat for about 1 hour. Once the meat is three-quarters cooked (i.e., easily pulling away from the bone), remove it from the pot. Let the pot continue to boil to concentrate the flavors.

Step 5: Preparing the vegetables
While the meat cools slightly, peel and finely chop the carrot and celery. Add them to the pot with the broth, along with the rice and tarragon. These ingredients will give the soup a pleasant texture and flavorful taste.

Step 6: Cutting the meat
When the meat has cooled sufficiently, remove it from the bone and cut it into small pieces. Add the meat pieces to the pot with the vegetables and let everything simmer together for 30 minutes, until the rice and vegetables are well cooked.

Step 7: Creaming
In a small bowl, mix the sour cream with an egg yolk and a few tablespoons of the hot broth from the pot. This step will help temper the sour cream and prevent it from curdling when added to the soup. Mix well until you achieve a smooth composition.

Step 8: Finishing the soup
Remove the pot from the heat and add the sour cream and egg mixture. Stir well to incorporate the ingredients. Season with salt to taste. The soup is now ready to be served!

Serving suggestions
Lamb soup is served hot, often alongside a slice of fresh bread or polenta. You can also add a tablespoon of freshly chopped parsley on top for an extra burst of flavor and color. Additionally, a bottle of white wine would be a perfect accompaniment to complete the meal.

Possible variations
If you want to add a twist to your recipe, you can replace the rice with bulgur or quinoa for a healthier, protein-rich version. You can also experiment with spices such as black pepper or even a pinch of chili powder for those who prefer a spicy note.

Nutritional benefits
Lamb soup is not only delicious but also nutritious. Lamb is an excellent source of protein and contains essential vitamins such as B12 and minerals like zinc and iron, beneficial for the immune system. The added vegetables provide fiber and plenty of antioxidants, making this soup a healthy choice for any meal.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can substitute lamb with beef or chicken, but the cooking time will vary.

2. How long can I keep the soup?
The soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove.

3. Is lamb soup suitable for special diets?
This is a relatively versatile recipe. If you’re looking to reduce calories, you can omit the sour cream or opt for a light version.

Final
Lamb soup is a dish that brings together tradition and culinary innovation. I invite you to prepare it with love and share this recipe with your loved ones. Every spoonful will bring beautiful memories and transform any meal into a celebration. Enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen and don’t hesitate to experiment!