False tripe soup

False tripe soup – A comforting delicacy

Do you desire a delicious soup that delights your senses, but without the traditional preparation of tripe? False tripe soup is the ideal solution! This recipe is not only simple but also tasty, perfect for cool days or for moments when you want to indulge in a comforting dish.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 2 fresh pork hocks (make sure they are meatless, just skin and bones)
- 2 medium onions
- 1 large carrot
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red for a touch of color)
- 3 eggs
- 400 g sour cream (choose a fatty sour cream for a richer taste)
- Salt, pepper, and vinegar to taste
- Garlic (optional, for an extra flavor)

A bit of history
Tripe soup is a traditional dish, known and appreciated for its intense flavor and unique texture. In the false version, we use hocks to achieve a similar flavor, but without the complexity of cooking tripe. This variant proves to be much easier to make while still retaining the essence and flavor of tripe soup.

Preparing false tripe soup:

1. Boiling the hock
Start by placing the two pork hocks in a large pot, adding about 4 liters of cold water. Add a tablespoon of salt for flavor. Place the pot over medium heat and wait for it to reach the boiling point. Once the water starts boiling, you will notice foam forming on the surface. Use a skimmer to remove this foam so that the soup is clear and pleasant to look at.

2. Adding the vegetables
After removing the foam, add the onion, carrot, and pepper, cut in half. These vegetables will add sweetness and flavor to the soup. Let everything simmer on low heat for about 45 minutes, until the skin from the hock easily separates from the bone.

3. Straining the broth
When the hock is cooked, remove it from the pot and let it cool slightly. Strain the broth into another container, ensuring that all impurities are eliminated. Cut the skin into fine strips and add it back to the broth.

4. Preparing the egg and sour cream mixture
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs together with the sour cream and two tablespoons of vinegar. This mixture will give the soup creaminess and a more refined taste. Here, it is essential to add a little of the hot broth (from the pot) to the egg and sour cream mixture, stirring quickly to avoid the eggs curdling. This is the tempering technique, which allows the eggs to integrate perfectly into the soup.

5. Finalizing the soup
Pour the egg and sour cream mixture back into the pot with the broth, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon. This will help achieve a creamy texture. Adjust salt and pepper to taste. If you like garlic, add a crushed clove for an extra flavor. Let the soup simmer for a few minutes, then remove it from the heat.

6. Serving the soup
False tripe soup is served hot, preferably with a slice of fresh bread or crispy croutons. You can also add freshly chopped parsley on top for an extra touch of freshness.

Practical tips:
- Use fresh hocks, not frozen, for a better taste.
- You can experiment with other vegetables, such as celery or zucchini, to customize the recipe.
- If you prefer a more sour soup, add more vinegar or lemon juice.
- The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, and the taste gets even better the next day.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This false tripe soup contains about 300 calories per serving, being a good source of protein due to the pork hock and eggs. The sour cream adds healthy fats, while the vegetables contribute fiber and essential vitamins.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use chicken hock instead of pork?
Sure, chicken hock will provide a lighter version of the soup, but the taste will be different.

2. How can I make the soup spicier?
You can add fresh chili pepper or chili flakes to the broth mixture.

3. Is false tripe soup suitable for vegans?
This recipe is not vegan due to the animal-derived ingredients, but you can adapt the recipe using mushrooms and vegetables for a similar taste.

Delicious combinations:
False tripe soup pairs perfectly with a cold drink, such as a dry white wine or fresh lemonade. You can also enjoy it alongside a platter of cheeses or fresh salads for a complete meal.

So, dare to try this simple and quick recipe for false tripe soup! It will pamper you with flavors and tastes that will bring a smile to your face. Enjoy every spoonful, share with loved ones, and turn every meal into a celebration!