Lamb's quarters soup

Loboda Soup: A Green Delight Full of Flavor

Loboda soup is a traditional dish, full of flavor, that brings together rich aromas and nutritious ingredients. This soup is perfect for cool days when you need a dose of good mood and health. Loboda, a plant with green leaves, is known for its nutritional benefits and is often used in spring dishes. So, get ready to discover how to prepare a delicious soup that will bring the family to the table.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

- 300 g loboda (fresh or frozen)
- 500 g smoked meat (pork or chicken, as preferred)
- 3-4 medium potatoes
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 medium onion
- 2-3 tomatoes or 2-3 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 2 medium carrots
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 1 l bors (or to taste)
- 100 g noodles
- 1 egg
- Salt, to taste

Step by Step Preparation:

1. Preparing the soup base:
Start by placing the smoked meat in a large pot with cold water. Bring to a boil, and when foam appears, carefully remove impurities with a skimmer. This step will help achieve a clear and aromatic soup.

2. Adding the vegetables:
After cleaning the meat, add the whole vegetables: carrots, onion, red bell pepper, and tomatoes. If using tomato paste, you can add it at this step. Let the vegetables boil together with the meat for about 25-30 minutes over medium heat. This process will allow the flavors to combine.

3. Mashing the vegetables:
Once the vegetables are cooked, remove them from the pot. Here you have the option to mash them entirely or cut them into cubes, depending on your preferences. If you choose to mash them, you will get a creamier soup, while leaving them in cubes will give a more rustic texture.

4. Adding the potatoes:
Add the diced potatoes to the pot and let them cook for 10 minutes. The potatoes will add a note of consistency to the soup, making it even more filling.

5. Including the loboda:
After 10 minutes, add the loboda cut into large pieces. This plant will give the soup a vibrant color and a fresh aroma. Let it boil for 10-15 minutes. You can also add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor.

6. Preparing the bors:
In another container, boil the bors. Once ready, add it to the soup. This ingredient will provide acidity and a specific flavor characteristic of traditional soups.

7. The noodles and egg:
Add the noodles and let them boil for 2-3 minutes until softened. In the meantime, beat the egg with a pinch of salt and finely chopped parsley. Then, pour the beaten egg into the soup, stirring continuously with a wooden spoon to avoid lumps. This step will add a creamy texture and a savory flavor.

8. Serving:
The loboda soup is ready! Serve it hot, with a spoonful of sour cream on top and, if desired, with hot pepper on the side. This will perfectly complement the flavors of the soup and add a bit of spice.

Practical Tips:

- Choosing the meat: Smoked meat adds a deep flavor, but you can use fresh meat if you prefer a lighter version.
- Loboda: If using frozen loboda, make sure to thaw it well before adding it. It will retain its flavor and nutrients.
- Variations: The soup can be enriched with other vegetables, such as celery or zucchini. You can also add spices like black pepper or hot paprika for a more intense taste.
- The ideal dessert: After a hearty meal with loboda soup, I recommend a light dessert, such as a fruit cake or a fresh fruit salad.

Nutritional Benefits:

Loboda soup is not only delicious but also healthy! Loboda is rich in vitamins A and C, minerals like iron and calcium, and also has antioxidant properties. Additionally, smoked meat provides essential proteins, and the vegetables contribute to fiber intake, aiding digestion.

Frequently Asked Questions:

- Can I use other types of vegetables instead of loboda? Yes, you can experiment with spinach or nettles, for example.
- Is this soup suitable for vegans? Of course! You can omit the meat and use vegetables and plant-based bors.
- How long does it keep? The soup keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days. You can easily reheat it.

Loboda soup is a simple recipe but with a remarkable taste impact. Try it and let yourself be carried away by its authentic flavors! Enjoy your meal!