Greek-style pork soup

Greek-style pork soup – a recipe that brings together culinary tradition and the comfort of a warm meal! This soup is not only nourishing but also full of flavors, perfect for gathering the family around the table. Whether you serve it for lunch or dinner, you will receive endless praise. In this recipe, I will guide you step by step to achieve a delicious soup that you can be proud of!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients
- 400 g pork (preferably shoulder or neck for a juicier soup)
- 1 large carrot, peeled and finely chopped
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 medium celery, chopped
- 1 cup rice (about 200 g)
- 400 g sour cream (ideally fatty sour cream for a richer taste)
- 2 egg yolks
- Salt, pepper, vegeta (or other preferred spices)
- A little dried tarragon (for added flavor)
- 2-3 tablespoons of vinegar (to add acidity and enhance the taste)

Step by step for a perfect soup

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by chopping all the vegetables (carrot, onion, bell pepper, celery) into small cubes. This step is essential as the vegetables will add texture and flavor to your soup.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot, heat a little oil over low heat. Add the chopped vegetables and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they become slightly translucent. This step will intensify the flavors of the vegetables and provide an excellent base for your soup.

3. Adding the meat: Cut the pork into small bite-sized pieces and add it to the pot. Stir well to combine the meat with the vegetables. Season with salt, pepper, and vegeta to taste. Let the meat brown slightly, about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Filling with water: Once the meat is browned, fill the pot with water, leaving a little space at the top. Add the vinegar – this will help balance the flavor and bring a note of freshness.

5. Boiling: Let the soup simmer on low heat until the meat is almost cooked (about 30-40 minutes). During this time, you can check periodically and remove the foam that forms on the surface to keep the soup clear and appetizing.

6. Adding the rice: When the meat is nearly cooked, add the rinsed rice (to remove the starch) and stir. Let it boil together until the rice is fully cooked, about 15-20 minutes.

7. Preparing the sour cream mixture: In a separate bowl, mix the sour cream with the egg yolks. This combination will give the soup a creamy texture and rich flavor. Make sure to mix well so that no lumps remain.

8. Thickening the soup: When the meat and rice are cooked, turn off the heat. Using a ladle, gradually take some of the broth from the pot and add it to the bowl with the sour cream, stirring continuously to prevent the eggs from curdling. After adding about 3 ladles, you can pour the mixture back into the pot, stirring gently to incorporate everything.

9. Finalizing the soup: Let the soup sit for a few minutes on the heat to blend the flavors, but no more than 5 minutes.

Serving and suggestions
The soup is served hot, with chili peppers on the side for those who love a bit of spice. You can also add some fresh parsley leaves for a more pleasant appearance and an extra flavor boost. This Greek-style pork soup pairs perfectly with a slice of fresh bread or polenta for a truly hearty meal.

Practical tips
- Choose the right meat: Pork with a little fat will add more flavor to the soup. If you prefer a leaner option, you can opt for chicken.
- Variations: You can add other seasonal vegetables like zucchini or green beans to diversify the recipe. You can also replace the rice with quinoa for a healthier option.
- Nutrition: This soup is rich in protein due to the pork and rice, making it a nourishing meal. A serving provides about 400 kcal, and adding vegetables makes it even more nutritious, bringing essential vitamins and minerals.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use beef instead of pork? Yes, the recipe can easily be adapted with beef, but the cooking time may vary.
- How can I make the soup more sour? You can add more vinegar or use lemon juice to enhance the acidity.
- How can I keep the soup fresh? It is recommended to store it in the refrigerator in airtight containers for 3-4 days. You can freeze portions to enjoy later.

Greek-style pork soup is an excellent choice for a comforting meal, full of flavors and culinary memories. Don't hesitate to experiment with the ingredients and put your personal touch on this classic recipe! It will surely become a favorite in your home. Enjoy your meal!