Lamb's quarters soup

Loboda soup: a traditional recipe with a fresh taste and a wealth of nutrients

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Loboda soup is a recipe full of tradition, bringing the flavors of summer and the health of nature to our table. This soup is not only a culinary delight but also a rich source of vitamins and minerals, cherished by generations for its unique taste and nutritional benefits. Loboda, a herbaceous plant with green, succulent leaves, is the star of our recipe and stands out for its high content of vitamin C, iron, and antioxidants, making it a valuable ingredient in daily nutrition.

Ingredients:

- 10 bunches of fresh loboda (approximately 300-400 g)
- 2 green onions (including the green part)
- 1 carrot
- 1 yellow bell pepper
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1.5-2 liters of water
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 200 ml of borscht or 2-3 tablespoons of vinegar (to taste)
- A handful of fresh parsley or lovage, finely chopped
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil or vegetable oil for sautéing

Preparing the loboda soup:

1. Boiling the loboda:
Start by bringing salted water to a boil in a large pot. Ensure the water is salty enough to enhance the flavor of the loboda. Once the water starts boiling, add the cleaned and well-washed loboda. Cover the pot with a lid and turn off the heat, letting the loboda rest for 10 minutes. This step is essential to preserve the vibrant color of the loboda and to maintain its nutrients.

2. Preparing the vegetables:
Meanwhile, wash and chop the onion, carrot, and bell peppers into small cubes. In a pan, heat the oil over medium heat and add the chopped vegetables. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes until they become slightly translucent and aromatic. Sautéing the vegetables helps release their flavors, which will add extra taste to your soup.

3. Adding the loboda:
After the loboda has been in hot water, remove it from the pot and place it in a colander. Rinse the loboda under cold running water to stop the cooking process and preserve its crunchy texture. Then, chop the loboda into small pieces and add it to the pan with the sautéed vegetables. Mix well to combine the flavors.

4. Boiling the soup:
Pour water over the vegetables and loboda in the pan, bringing everything to a boil. Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 35 minutes. This is when all the flavors will combine, and the soup will develop a delicious consistency.

5. Seasoning:
In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the borscht or vinegar, depending on your preferences. If you choose vinegar, add it only after turning off the heat to preserve the freshness of the taste. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste and add the chopped parsley or lovage.

Serving suggestions:
Loboda soup is delicious served hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or polenta. You can also add a spoonful of sour cream or yogurt for extra creaminess and a pleasant contrast of textures. A bottle of dry white wine or a fresh fruit compote pairs perfectly with this recipe.

Variations and useful tips:
- If you want a heartier version, you can add some diced potatoes or even strips of meat (chicken or pork) to turn the soup into a substantial main dish.
- You can experiment with different herbs, such as dill or basil, to give your soup a different flavor.
- If the soup seems too sour, you can add a teaspoon of sugar to balance the flavors.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can loboda soup be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze loboda soup, but it's recommended to do so without adding vinegar or borscht. Add them after thawing to keep the flavors intact.

- How healthy is loboda soup?
Loboda soup is a healthy choice, being low in calories and rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It is ideal for a balanced diet, with a caloric content of about 100-150 calories per serving, depending on your specific additions.

In conclusion, loboda soup is a dish that combines fresh taste and health, perfect for those who want to explore traditional recipes. Try this simple and quick recipe, add your personal touch, and enjoy a meal full of flavor!