Carp and salmon soup with sour cream

Carp Soup with Smoked Salmon and Sour Cream

Carp soup with smoked salmon is a recipe that blends tradition with refinement, bringing to the table a savory and comforting dish. This soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, offering an unforgettable culinary experience. I invite you to discover the necessary steps to prepare this wonderful dish, which will delight both family and friends.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients

- 1 kg carp (head and tail)
- 150 g smoked salmon fillet
- 2 new carrots
- 2 potatoes
- 1 zucchini
- 1 bell pepper
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 2 tablespoons rice
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon dried fennel seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon dried wild thyme
- 2 tablespoons homemade bell pepper and celery paste
- 1/2 teaspoon hot pepper paste (homemade)
- 2 lemons (juice)
- Salt, to taste
- Green onion tops
- Fresh parsley

A Brief History

Fish soup is a traditional dish in many cultures, often associated with festive meals or family gatherings. The combination of fish with fresh vegetables and spices has led to the emergence of unique variants, and the addition of smoked salmon brings a sophisticated note to this recipe. This type of soup not only satisfies the taste buds but is also an excellent source of omega-3 and proteins, making it a healthy choice.

Preparation Steps

1. Preparing the fish: Start by putting a large pot of water to boil. Add salt, being careful not to overdo it, as the smoked salmon will also add salt to the soup. Once the water is boiling, add the head and tail of the carp. Boil for about 10 minutes.

2. Preparing the vegetables: Meanwhile, peel and wash the vegetables. Cut the carrots and zucchini into small cubes, and the potatoes into larger cubes. Slice the garlic thinly, and chop the bell pepper.

3. Adding the vegetables: Remove the fish from the water and set it aside. In the same water, add the carrots and potatoes. Let them boil for 10 minutes.

4. Adding the rice and spices: After 10 minutes, add the rice, garlic, zucchini, bell pepper, pepper paste, and spices (fennel, thyme). Let it come to a boil.

5. Checking the vegetables: Once the vegetables are cooked, check their consistency. The carrot and potato should be cooked but not so soft that they fall apart.

6. Cleaning the fish: Meanwhile, remove the bones from the carp and separate the fish meat from the skin. Make sure you have removed all the bones to avoid any discomfort when serving.

7. Adding the sour cream: Reduce the boiling intensity and dilute the sour cream with a little hot broth from the pot. Then, pour the mixture into the pot, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.

8. Adding the smoked salmon: Finally, add the pieces of smoked salmon fillet. This will infuse the soup with a rich and sophisticated flavor.

9. Adjusting the soup's acidity: Season with lemon juice to taste. It is important to taste and adjust the salt if necessary.

10. Serving: The soup is served hot, sprinkled with freshly chopped parsley and green onion tops. In each bowl, add a few pieces of carp for an appetizing appearance.

Practical Tips

- Fish: Use fresh fish for the best results. Carp is ideal, but you can experiment with other types of fish, such as trout or catfish.
- Vegetables: You can also add other seasonal vegetables, such as celery or cauliflower, to enrich the soup's flavor.
- Sour cream: If you want a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. This will add a note of freshness.
- Spices: Feel free to experiment with different spices – cumin or hot pepper can add an interesting flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

- How long does the soup last in the fridge?
Carp soup with smoked salmon can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days. It is important to store it in airtight containers.

- Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, the soup can be frozen, but it is advisable not to add the sour cream before freezing. When you want to consume it, thaw it, heat it, and add the sour cream before serving.

Pairings and Serving

Carp soup with smoked salmon pairs wonderfully with a slice of fresh bread or flavored croutons. Additionally, a bottle of dry white wine or a cold lemonade will perfectly complement the dish.

Nutritional Benefits

This soup is an excellent source of proteins, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. Fish is rich in essential nutrients, and the vegetables add fiber and antioxidants, contributing to a healthy diet.

I invite you to try this delicious recipe for carp soup with smoked salmon and sour cream. Not only will you create a tasty dish, but you will also bring a touch of joy to every plate. Enjoy your meal!