Peasant soup

Peasant soup - a recipe full of flavor and tradition

Peasant soup is a dish that evokes childhood memories, when every ingredient was carefully chosen, and the intoxicating aromas filled the entire house. This recipe is a true feast of colors and flavors, combining succulent meat with fresh vegetables to create a comforting and nourishing soup. In the following, I will present how to prepare this delicacy step by step, providing you with useful tips and tricks to ensure a perfect result.

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

Ingredients:
- 500 g pork (choose a piece with a little fat for a richer taste)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, grated
- 1 parsley root, diced
- 1 piece of celery, diced
- 1 parsnip, diced
- 2 potatoes, diced
- 1/4 white cabbage, shredded
- 2 red peppers, diced
- 2 tomatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup of peas (you can use canned peas for convenience)
- 200 ml broth
- Greens (lovage, parsley, tarragon), finely chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon sweet paprika
- Oil (for sautéing)
- Sour cream (optional, for serving)
- Pickled hot pepper (optional, for serving)

Preparing the peasant soup:

1. Boiling the meat: In a large pot, add 1.5 liters of cold water and the diced meat. Place over medium heat and add a teaspoon of salt. It is essential to skim the soup several times, removing the impurities that form on the surface. Boil the meat for about 30 minutes, or until it becomes almost tender. This will provide a rich base for the soup.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In another pot, add a few tablespoons of oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the grated carrot and chopped onion, sautéing for 5-7 minutes until they become translucent. Add the paprika, stirring well, making sure the heat is not too high to avoid bitterness.

3. Adding the meat and vegetables: Pour the boiled meat (along with water) over the sautéed vegetable mixture. Let it simmer for a few minutes, then add the diced parsley root, parsnip, celery, and potatoes. These vegetables will enrich the soup with flavors and nutrients.

4. Adding cabbage and other vegetables: After about 15 minutes, when the vegetables in the pot are almost cooked, add the shredded cabbage, red pepper, and peas. Continue to boil for another 10 minutes.

5. Finalizing the soup: Near the end, add the peeled and diced tomatoes along with the broth. Let it boil for another 5 minutes. Adjust with salt and pepper to taste, and add the finely chopped greens. This final step will give the soup a fresh and vibrant aroma.

6. Serving: The soup is served hot, with a spoonful of sour cream on top and, for those who prefer a spicier taste, with pickled hot pepper on the side. It is an excellent choice for family meals or to impress guests.

Practical tips:
- Meat: Choose pork with a good fat ratio for a more intense flavor. You can also use beef or chicken, depending on your preferences.
- Vegetables: Make sure the vegetables are fresh and in season to benefit from their maximum flavor. You can experiment with other vegetables like zucchini or purple carrots for a different appearance.
- Variations: For a spicier soup, you can add fresh hot pepper during cooking or spices like cumin or coriander.
- Serving: This soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of homemade bread or polenta, adding extra consistency.

Nutritional benefits: Peasant soup is full of nutrients, thanks to the combination of meat and vegetables. It is rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals, providing a balanced caloric intake, ideal for a hearty meal. Each serving contains approximately 300 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of meat? Yes, you can use beef, chicken, or even turkey, depending on your preferences.
- How long can the soup be stored? The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. It can also be frozen for later consumption.
- How can I make the soup more sour? You can add lemon juice or vinegar at the end, to taste, to give it a sour note.

In conclusion, peasant soup is a recipe that not only nourishes the body but also the soul. It brings together tradition and the joy of home cooking, offering a delicious and comforting dish. Experiment with the ingredients, add a touch of creativity, and savor every bite! Enjoy!