Mushroom soup

Liver Soup with Vegetables Recipe

Liver soup with vegetables is a traditional dish that combines the rich flavors of pork liver with the freshness of vegetables. This recipe is not only nourishing but also brings a touch of nostalgia, evoking memories from grandma's kitchen, where meals were always abundant and warm. So, prepare to embark on a simple yet flavorful culinary journey.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 medium carrot
- 1 leek
- 1 onion
- 1/2 bell pepper
- 1 piece of celery (about 100 g)
- 1 tablespoon of rice (or noodles, as preferred)
- 1/2 jar of small tomatoes in their juice
- 1 liter of borscht (or water if you prefer a milder taste)
- 500 g pork liver
- 500 g pork lung
- Fresh lovage, for decoration and flavor
- Salt, to taste

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Rinse the liver and lung well under cold running water. Cut the liver into small cubes and the lung into larger pieces. This will help with even and quick cooking. In a large pot, add water and bring it to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the liver and lung, letting them boil for 10 minutes. This step will help remove impurities and excess fat.

2. Preparing the vegetables: While the liver and lung are boiling, clean and chop all the vegetables. The carrot, leek, onion, bell pepper, and celery should be finely chopped so they integrate perfectly into the soup. Once prepared, add them to a separate pot with a little water and let them simmer on low heat.

3. Combining the ingredients: After the liver and lung have boiled for 10 minutes, drain the water and transfer them to the pot with the vegetables. Mix well and add salt to taste. This step is essential to ensure an even flavor throughout the soup.

4. Adding the tomatoes and borscht: Once the vegetables have started to soften, add the jarred tomatoes and borscht. The tomatoes add a pleasant acidity, while the borscht provides a note of freshness. Let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Finishing the soup: A few minutes before turning off the heat, add the rice or noodles, depending on your preference. Cook until they are fully cooked. Finally, adjust the taste with salt and add the freshly chopped lovage. This will give the soup a vibrant and fresh flavor.

6. Serving: The soup is served hot, garnished with fresh lovage leaves. For an extra touch of flavor, you can add a teaspoon of sour cream on top. This will enrich the texture and balance the flavors of the soup.

Practical tips:
- Pork liver is an excellent source of protein and iron, beneficial for blood health. It is important not to overcook it, as it can become dry.
- The lung is a less commonly used part but has a delicate flavor. Make sure it is well cleaned and cooked to achieve the best flavors.
- If you prefer a more sour soup, add more borscht or a little lemon juice before serving.
- You can vary the recipe by adding other seasonal vegetables or spices, such as parsley or dill.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use another type of meat? Yes, you can replace pork liver with chicken or beef, but the cooking time will vary.
2. How can I store the soup for several days? The soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can freeze it, but it's recommended to consume it fresh for the best flavors.
3. Can it be adapted to be vegetarian? Yes, you can replace the meat with mushrooms and add more vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version.

Ideal pairings:
This soup pairs wonderfully with fresh homemade bread or warm polenta. A glass of white wine or a shot of plum brandy can perfectly complement the meal, bringing a note of conviviality and warmth.

Nutrition:
Liver soup is an excellent choice for a healthy meal, being high in protein and vitamins. Each serving contains approximately 300-350 calories, depending on the ingredients used, making it a nutritious and filling option.

In conclusion, liver soup with vegetables is a recipe that combines tradition with authentic taste, perfect for chilly days or any occasion when you want to treat your family to a special dish. Don't forget to serve it with love and enjoy the moments spent around the table, sharing stories and smiles. Enjoy your meal!