Lamb soup

Lamb Soup with Borscht – An Easter Delicacy

Lamb soup with borscht is a traditional dish often associated with Easter celebrations, bringing family together around the table. This recipe is not only a delicious choice but also a symbol of spring, renewal, and joy. Here’s how to prepare a tasty lamb soup that will delight the taste buds of your loved ones.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8 servings

Ingredients

- 500-600 g lamb (ribs, shank, etc.)
- 2 medium carrots
- 1 medium celery root
- 1 large bunch of green onions
- 1 parsnip
- 1/2 bell pepper
- 1 tablespoon of rice
- 2.5-3 liters of water or beef broth
- 250-300 ml borscht (or more, depending on how sour you prefer)
- 1/2 bunch of lovage
- 1/2 bunch of parsley
- 1 egg
- Salt, to taste

Necessary utensils

- A large pot (3-3.5 liters)
- A sharp knife
- A wooden spoon
- A bowl
- A skimmer

Step by Step

1. Preparing the Lamb
Start by washing the lamb pieces well under cold water. Cut them into suitable pieces to ensure even cooking. Choose ribs or shank for a more intense flavor.

2. Boiling the Meat
In a large pot, add 2.5-3 liters of water or beef broth, then add a teaspoon of salt. Place the pot over medium heat and bring it to a boil. Once the water starts boiling, add the lamb pieces. When the water begins to boil again, reduce the heat to low and use a skimmer to remove the foam that forms on the surface. It’s important to have a clear broth, so don’t skip this step!

3. Adding the Vegetables
Peel and wash the carrots, celery, parsnip, and bell pepper. Cut them into large pieces and add them to the pot once the foam has been removed. Let it simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes until the vegetables soften.

4. Cooking the Rice
Remove the vegetables from the pot and add the rice to the broth. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot. The rice will absorb the flavors of the meat and vegetables, becoming an essential part of the dish.

5. Preparing the Borscht
Meanwhile, chop the onion into small rings and bring the borscht to a boil in another pot. The borscht adds a pleasant acidity to the soup, so adjust the amount according to your preferences.

6. Finalizing the Dish
Once the meat and rice are cooked, add the boiled onion and borscht to the pot with the soup. Stir well and let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes for all the flavors to combine.

7. Preparing the Egg Mixture
In a bowl, beat the egg with the finely chopped lovage and parsley. Gradually add a few tablespoons of the soup to the bowl to temper the egg, then pour everything into the pot with the soup. Turn off the heat and cover the pot.

Serving

Lamb soup is served hot, accompanied by sour cream for added creaminess. You can also add toasted bread croutons or a fresh salad to complete the meal. A delicious variation is to add sorrel or lamb's lettuce, which adds an extra note of freshness.

Practical Tips

- Meat Selection: Choose fresh lamb with a pink appearance and a pleasant smell to achieve an exceptionally tasty soup.
- Controlling Acidity: If you prefer a sourer soup, add more borscht or even a splash of lemon juice.
- Storage: Lamb soup can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and the flavor will intensify as it sits.

Nutritional Benefits

Lamb soup is an excellent source of protein and vitamins. Lamb contains zinc, iron, and vitamin B12, which are essential for the proper functioning of the body. The vegetables add fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making this dish a healthy and nourishing option.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use pork or beef? Of course! Although the traditional recipe is with lamb, you can adapt the ingredients to your preferences.
- What other vegetables can I add? Beets, peas, or green beans are excellent options to diversify the soup.
- How can I enhance the flavor? Add some peppercorns or bay leaves during boiling for an extra touch of flavor.

Possible Variations

Lamb soup can be adapted according to the season. In spring, you can add nettles or spinach for a fresh note. In the cold season, add potatoes or pumpkin for a heartier texture.

Conclusion

Lamb soup with borscht is not just a tasty dish but also an opportunity to gather family around the table and celebrate beautiful moments together. Whether you prepare it for Easter or for an ordinary evening, this recipe will bring a touch of warmth and joy to everyone’s hearts. So put on your apron, gather the ingredients, and let yourself be carried away by the wonderful aroma of an unforgettable lamb soup!