Liver soup with croutons

Liver soup with croutons is a classic and comforting dish, perfect for chilly days or when we want to indulge in a taste full of memories. This recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, being an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. With a preparation time of about 40 minutes, this recipe can be easily adapted to suit your culinary preferences.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 kg pork liver (or poultry liver, as preferred)
- 2 slices of white bread
- 2 egg yolks
- 2 liters vegetable broth (or water, but broth adds extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon mustard with horseradish
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 tablespoon flour
- Salt, pepper, bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- Bread for croutons (the white bread slices can also be used for this purpose)

Brief history:
Liver soup is a traditional recipe found in many culinary cultures. Liver, a rich source of nutrients, has been highly valued throughout history for its nutritional properties. In the past, this soup was often made in simpler households, being an efficient way to utilize all parts of the animal. Today, it represents an elegant dish that can be served at festive meals or as a comforting option on winter evenings.

Preparation method:
1. Preparing the liver: Wash the pork liver in several waters to remove impurities. It is essential to clean it well, as only a clean liver will bring a pleasant taste to the soup. Once cleaned, cut it into smaller pieces for even cooking.

2. Boiling the liver: Place the cut liver in a large pot with cold water. Add a little salt, two bay leaves, and a few peppercorns. Boil over medium heat for about 15-20 minutes, until the liver is well cooked. It is important not to overcook it, as it will become tough.

3. Grinding the liver: After the liver is boiled, drain it and let it cool slightly. Use a meat grinder to grind it together with the slices of white bread. This mixture will form the base of the soup.

4. Preparing the soup: In a 3-liter pot, add the vegetable broth (or water) and the liver and bread mixture. Simmer over low heat for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

5. Preparing the liaison: In a separate bowl, prepare a liaison from the egg yolks, mustard with horseradish, sour cream, and flour. Use a whisk to thoroughly combine the ingredients, avoiding clumps. If the liaison seems too thick, you can add a little water to thin it.

6. Thickening the soup: Slowly incorporate the liaison into the liver soup, stirring continuously. It is important not to leave the soup on the heat for too long, as the combination of liver and egg yolks is delicate and may curdle. Once the soup comes to a boil, remove it from the heat.

7. Seasoning and serving: Add ground allspice, salt, and pepper to taste. Serve the soup hot in bowls, with toasted bread croutons on top. A delicious option is to add a tablespoon of sour cream to each bowl for extra creaminess.

Practical tips:
- Choosing the liver: If you want a lighter option, you can choose poultry liver, which has a shorter cooking time and a more delicate texture.
- Croutons: For croutons, cut the bread into cubes and toast them in a little oil or butter until golden and crispy.
- Variations: You can experiment with spices, adding herbs such as parsley or dill for a fresher taste.
- Pairings with drinks: This dish pairs wonderfully with a dry white wine or an herbal tea, which will perfectly complement the flavors of the soup.

Nutritional information:
This liver soup is an excellent source of protein, vitamins A, B12, and iron, being beneficial for immune system and blood health. The liver contains essential nutrients that are often deficient in modern diets.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use liver pâtés?
Yes, if you are pressed for time, you can replace the liver with two 200 g liver pâtés. The preparation will only take 15 minutes.

2. What can I do with leftover soup?
If you have leftover soup, you can keep it in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. It can be reheated and served as a quick meal.

3. Is this soup suitable for vegans?
Unfortunately, this recipe is not suitable for vegans, but you can look for vegetable and tofu alternatives for a similar soup.

The liver soup with croutons is a perfect choice for a comforting and flavorful meal. With every bite, you will feel the warmth and goodness of this traditional dish that brings people and memories together. Enjoy your meal!