Lamb soup

Lamb Borscht – A traditional recipe full of flavor and joy

Lamb borscht is a delicacy that brings together the fine flavors of spring and festive culinary tradition. This recipe, filled with nostalgia and aroma, transforms lamb meat into a savory dish, perfect for the Easter table or any special occasion. In this guide, I will explain step by step how to prepare a delicious lamb borscht, providing you with useful tips to help you achieve a perfect result.

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

Ingredients:
- 2.5 kg lamb meat (shoulder and ribs)
- 3 white onions
- A bunch of green onions
- 3 slices of celery
- 1 parsnip
- 2 carrots
- Salt, to taste
- 1 liter of borscht
- Canned tomatoes and vegetables
- A pinch of vegetable Delicat
- 4 noodles (you can replace with rice if preferred)
- A bunch of fresh lovage

Preparation:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by cutting the lamb meat into pieces. Wash it thoroughly under cold running water to remove impurities. Then, prepare a solution of water and vinegar (about 1 part vinegar to 3 parts water) and blanch the meat for a few minutes. This step is essential to reduce the specific lamb smell that can be too strong for some. After the meat has boiled, drain it and wash it again.

2. Boiling the meat: Place the borscht pot on the stove and add water, then a pinch of vegetable Delicat to give a subtle flavor to your soups. When the water starts to boil, add the lamb meat. Boil over medium heat for about 15 minutes, until the meat starts to soften.

3. Preparing the vegetables: While the meat is boiling, peel and chop the vegetables. The white onion, carrots, celery, and parsnip should be diced or sliced thinly, depending on your preferences. These vegetables will add wonderful texture and rich flavor to the borscht.

4. Adding the vegetables: After 15 minutes of boiling, add the chopped vegetables to the pot. It is important to add them now, as the meat is still raw and there is a risk of it turning into a mushy mass if overcooked. Let everything boil for about 20 minutes, until the vegetables become tender.

5. Adding the borscht: Now it's time to incorporate the borscht. Add it to the pot and let it boil for 10 minutes. The borscht will provide a pleasant acidity and turn the dish into a savory soup.

6. Finalizing the dish: After the borscht has boiled, add the chopped tomatoes and green onions. These will intensify the flavors and add a touch of freshness. Finally, add the noodles (or rice if you choose this option) and the chopped lovage. Adjust salt to taste and let everything boil for a few more minutes until the noodles are cooked.

7. Serving: Lamb borscht is served hot, with a piece of fresh bread on the side. It can be garnished with fresh lovage for added flavor. I encourage you to try serving it with delicious sour cream and a slice of lemon, which will add a tangy note and highlight the flavors of the borscht.

Suggestions and variations:
- Vegetables: You can experiment with different vegetables by adding bell peppers or zucchini to diversify the recipe.
- Noodles: If you prefer a heartier meal, add more noodles or use short pasta.
- Borscht: You can use vinegar borscht to add a different flavor.

Nutritional benefits: Lamb borscht is not only tasty but also nutritious. Lamb meat is an excellent source of protein and B vitamins, while the vegetables add fiber and antioxidants, contributing to a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of meat? Yes, you can replace lamb meat with beef or chicken, but the cooking time will change.
- How can I store the borscht? Lamb borscht can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can freeze it for later consumption, but I recommend adding fresh noodles upon reintegration.

This lamb borscht is more than just a simple recipe; it is a culinary experience that brings family and friends together around the table. Whether you prepare it for Easter or any other special day, each spoonful will bring joy and warmth. Enjoy and happy holidays!