Sorrel soup

Sorrel soup - A spring delight with unmistakable flavors

When it comes to traditional dishes, sorrel soup is among the most beloved, bringing with it not only a fresh taste but also a rich story full of traditions. This simple yet delicious recipe is perfect for warm spring days when greens are in full bloom. Sorrel soup is not just a savory appetizer, but also an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. Let's discover together how to prepare it step by step!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients for sorrel soup:
- 500 g fresh sorrel leaves, cleaned
- 3 medium onions, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon of rice
- 1 cup of tomatoes with peppers (canned or fresh, according to preference)
- 2 liters of water
- Salt, to taste
- Lemon juice, borscht, or lemon salt to sour the soup (optional)
- 1 teaspoon of Delikat vegetable seasoning (optional, for extra flavor)

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by picking sorrel from the garden (or buying it from the market if you don’t have access to it). Make sure the leaves are fresh, green, and free of spots. Remove the tough stems, then wash them well to remove any impurities. Chop them finely and set aside.

Onion is an essential ingredient in this recipe, providing a sweet taste and pleasant aroma. You can use white or yellow onion, depending on your preferences. Chop it finely so it cooks evenly.

Step 2: Sautéing the onion and rice
In a large pot, add a tablespoon of oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for about 2 minutes until it becomes translucent. Add the rice and a pinch of salt, stirring constantly to prevent sticking. This step will help the rice absorb the flavors of the onion.

Step 3: Boiling the soup
Once the onion and rice are sautéed, add the 2 liters of water to the pot and bring everything to a boil. When the water starts to boil, add the chopped sorrel. It’s important to know that sorrel cooks quickly, so don’t let it boil for too long. Let the soup simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the rice is cooked and the sorrel leaves become tender.

Step 4: Seasoning the soup
Add the tomatoes with peppers to the soup and let everything come to a boil. Taste and adjust the salt according to your preference. If you like the soup a bit sour, you can add lemon juice, borscht, or lemon salt. Personally, I like to serve it cold with finely chopped fresh onion on top for a contrast of textures and flavors.

Step 5: Serving the soup
Sorrel soup can be served hot or cold. It is delicious alongside a slice of fresh bread or a portion of polenta. If you have prepared tomato paste, don’t hesitate to use it to add an even richer flavor. This soup pairs perfectly with a fresh salad or salty cottage cheese.

Tips and useful advice:
- If you don’t have tomatoes with peppers, you can use plain tomatoes, but add a little diced bell pepper to compensate.
- Sorrel soup can be transformed into a delicious vegetarian dish if you omit the Delikat and use only salt.
- An interesting variation is to add a few strips of carrot for extra sweetness and color.

Nutritional benefits:
Sorrel is a plant rich in vitamins A, C, and K, being an excellent source of antioxidants. Consuming sorrel helps strengthen the immune system and maintain bone health. Additionally, it is low in calories, making it an ideal choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen sorrel?
Yes, you can use frozen sorrel, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the soup.

2. How long can the soup be stored?
Sorrel soup can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.

3. What other greens can I add to the soup?
You can experiment with spinach, wild garlic, or even parsley for added flavor.

Sorrel soup is more than just a simple dish - it is a culinary experience that brings with it memories and traditions. Whether you prepare it for a family meal or a dinner with friends, this soup will bring a touch of spring to your plate. So embrace nature and enjoy the authentic flavor of sorrel soup!