Acroshka

Acroshka: Russian Cold Soup – A Refreshing Delight

Welcome to my kitchen! Today we will explore the traditional recipe for Acroshka, a Russian cold soup that will delight your senses. This recipe is perfect for hot summer days, offering a refreshing combination of fresh vegetables, meat, and a lightly acidic drink known as braga. Let’s prepare to uncover the secrets of this delicious recipe!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Fermentation time: 12 hours
Total time: 12 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients for Acroshka:

- 1.5 liters of braga (see below for preparation)
- 300 grams of boiled meat (chicken or beef)
- 3 fresh cucumbers
- 4-5 boiled potatoes
- 1 carrot
- 5 hard-boiled eggs
- 1 bunch of green onions
- 200 grams of sour cream
- Approximately 1 teaspoon of salt (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon of mustard
- 2-3 radishes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon of finely chopped dill and parsley

Ingredients for braga:

- 1 kg of black bread (ideal for making flavorful croutons)
- 15-20 grams of fresh yeast
- 500 grams of sugar
- 10 liters of water

Brief History and Nutritional Benefits

Acroshka is more than just a simple soup; it is a culinary tradition that has been cherished for generations. Consuming cold soups during the summer is not only a taste pleasure but also an effective way to keep the body hydrated. Braga, the main ingredient, is recognized for its medicinal properties, being used in alternative medicine as a remedy for reducing fever and toning the body. This soup is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients.

Preparing Braga

1. Start by cutting the bread into small cubes. This will become the base of the croutons that will add texture to the braga.
2. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the bread cubes on a tray and bake until golden and crispy, about 15-20 minutes.
3. Boil 10 liters of water in a large pot. Once the water reaches a boiling point, remove it from heat.
4. Add the bread croutons to the hot water and stir gently. Add the sugar and stir until it dissolves completely.
5. Cover the pot with a lid and let the mixture cool until it becomes warm.
6. Dissolve the yeast in a little warm braga and add it to the pot. Cover again and wrap the pot with a blanket, letting it ferment in warmth or sunlight for about 12 hours. You will know the braga is ready when bubbles appear on the surface.
7. Once fermented, strain the braga through cheesecloth to remove the bread pieces and pour it into bottles. Seal tightly and store in the refrigerator. The next day, the braga will be even tastier.

Preparing Acroshka

1. Start by preparing all the ingredients. Cut the boiled meat into thin strips. If you wish, you can use leftover chicken or beef.
2. Peel and dice the boiled potatoes, carrot, and cucumbers into small cubes. Chop the green onions finely.
3. Take the hard-boiled eggs and cut them into quarters or cubes, as preferred.
4. In a large pot, combine all the chopped ingredients: vegetables, meat, green onions, and eggs.
5. Add 1.5 liters of braga to the vegetable and meat mixture. Season with salt to taste and add the mustard.
6. Mix well to combine the flavors, then let the dish cool in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. Acroshka is best served cold!
7. When serving, add a tablespoon of sour cream on top and garnish with thinly sliced radishes, boiled egg, and fresh dill.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Acroshka is ideally served in cold bowls, alongside a slice of fresh black bread. It can be accompanied by a glass of vodka or a light cocktail, such as a mojito, to complement its fresh taste.

Tips and Variations

- You can experiment with different vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to add more flavor.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add more vegetables or tofu.
- For a more complex flavor, add a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice to the braga before adding it to the soup.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does it take to ferment braga?
- It is recommended to let the braga ferment for about 12 hours, but check for bubbles. If you see active fermentation, it is ready.

2. Can I use store-bought braga?
- While it’s better to make braga at home for an authentic taste, if you have store-bought braga, you can use it, but make sure it is of good quality.

3. Is Acroshka a suitable recipe for diets?
- Yes, Acroshka is a healthy option, being rich in vegetables and proteins. It is an easily digestible soup, perfect for hot days.

Now that you’ve discovered all the secrets of the Acroshka recipe, I can only wish you bon appétit! This cold soup is not just a delicious choice but also an excellent way to enjoy the summer sun and indulge your taste buds. Experiment with the ingredients and let your imagination soar!