Lamb soup

Lamb soup with fresh vegetables: a delicious and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Lamb soup is a traditional dish, full of flavors and nutrients, that reminds us of family meals and beautiful moments spent with loved ones. In this recipe, we will explore a gentler approach, without using sour borscht or other sour ingredients, but perfectly blending succulent lamb meat with fresh vegetables. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to pamper your family, this soup will bring a smile to everyone's face.

Necessary ingredients:

- 700 g lamb loin (spinalis)
- 2-3 medium carrots
- 50 g celery (about a small piece)
- 25 g parsnip
- 50 g parsley root
- 25 g kohlrabi
- 1 bunch of green onions
- 1 bunch of green garlic
- ½ bunch of lovage
- ½ bunch of wild garlic
- 2-3 sprigs of tarragon
- Iodized salt, to taste
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
- 4-5 egg yolks
- 300-400 ml sour cream

Preparation:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by washing the lamb loin well under cold running water. Cut it into medium-sized pieces, ensuring they are all similar in size for even cooking. Place the meat in a large pot, add cold water and half a teaspoon of salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, partially covering the pot. Let it boil for about 25 minutes, skimming off impurities as needed.

2. Preparing the vegetables: Meanwhile, clean and wash all the vegetables. Cut the carrots, celery, parsnip, parsley root, and kohlrabi into small cubes. Finely chop the green onions and green garlic. These vegetables will not only enrich the soup's flavor but also add a pleasant texture.

3. Sautéing the vegetables: In a separate pan, add a little sunflower oil and, if desired, 1-2 tablespoons of water. Sauté the chopped vegetables for 5-7 minutes over medium heat until they become slightly translucent and release their aromas. This sautéing technique helps intensify the final flavor of the soup.

4. Adding the vegetables to the soup: After the meat has boiled, add the sautéed vegetables to the pot with the lamb. Season with salt and freshly ground pepper, then let it simmer over medium heat for about 25 minutes. This step is essential for the vegetables to soften and release their flavor into the soup.

5. Finishing the soup: A few minutes before serving the soup, prepare the egg yolk and sour cream mixture. In a bowl, beat the egg yolks with the sour cream until you obtain a smooth mixture. It is important to take your time with this step, as adding the heat from the soup to the egg and cream mixture will prevent it from curdling. Thus, take a few tablespoons of hot soup and gradually pour them into the bowl with the egg yolks, stirring constantly. Then, pour the mixture back into the pot with the soup, stirring well.

6. Serving: The lamb soup is served hot, garnished with finely chopped lovage, chili pepper, or a splash of vinegar or lemon juice, depending on everyone's preferences. This will not only provide a fresh taste but also an attractive appearance to your dish.

Useful tips and tricks:

- If you want to enrich the flavor of the soup, you can add a few peppercorns, bay leaves, or even a pinch of chili for a touch of spice.
- You can replace the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter yet equally delicious version.
- The lamb soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Additionally, the flavor improves the next day when the aromas have time to blend.

Nutritional benefits:

This soup is an excellent source of protein due to the lamb meat, rich in iron and zinc, essential nutrients for immune system health. The vegetables add vitamins, minerals, and fiber, contributing to a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of meat? Yes, you can substitute lamb with chicken or beef, but you will need to adjust the cooking time.
2. Is lamb soup suitable for children? Yes, it is a healthy and nourishing dish, but make sure it is not too spicy.
3. How can I make the soup thicker? Add a few diced potatoes or white beans before adding the sautéed vegetables.

Serving suggestions:

Lamb soup pairs perfectly with a slice of fresh bread or polenta to soak up the delicious broth. Also, a glass of dry white wine or a fresh fruit cocktail will perfectly complement the meal.

I hope this lamb soup recipe has inspired you and will help you bring a touch of joy to your kitchen. Enjoy your meal!