Peasant soup with pork

Country-style pork soup is a classic recipe that combines the rich flavors of vegetables with the succulence of meat, creating a comforting and flavorful dish. This traditional soup is perfect for family meals, reminding us of childhood tastes and the warmth of home.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

- 500 g pork shoulder (preferably with some fat for flavor)
- 1 medium carrot
- 3 slices of celery (about 100 g)
- 1 parsnip (about 100 g)
- 3 medium-sized potatoes
- 100 g cabbage (about half a small cabbage)
- 100 g green beans (fresh or frozen)
- 100 g peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red or yellow for extra color)
- 2 medium onions
- 1 can of canned tomatoes (about 400 g)
- A bunch of fresh parsley
- Borscht (to taste)
- Salt (to taste)
- Delicate spice (to preference)

Brief history

Country-style soup has its roots in the culinary traditions of rural communities. This soup has always been appreciated for its simple yet nutrient-rich ingredients used in households. Each family has its own recipe, passed down through generations, and the ingredients may vary depending on the season and availability.

Step by step

1. Preparing the meat: Start by washing the pork shoulder well. Cut the meat into suitable pieces so that it cooks evenly. This step is important for achieving a tender and juicy texture.

2. Boiling the meat: In a pot of about 4 liters, add the meat and cover it with cold water. Add a teaspoon of salt to flavor the meat. Place the pot over medium heat and let it boil. Throughout, skim off the foam that forms on the surface with a ladle to achieve a clear broth.

3. Preparing the vegetables: While the meat is boiling, peel and chop the vegetables. The carrot, celery, parsnip, and bell pepper should be cut into small cubes, while the cabbage should be shredded, as for a salad. The onions should be finely chopped.

4. Adding the vegetables: When the meat is almost cooked (about 40 minutes), add all the chopped vegetables. The potatoes can be added cut into larger cubes, so they do not completely disintegrate during boiling. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 20 minutes.

5. Adding tomatoes and spices: After the vegetables have softened, add the canned tomatoes, including their juice, and the finely chopped parsley. Season with salt and borscht to taste, being careful not to overdo it, so as not to overpower the natural flavors of the ingredients.

6. Finalizing the soup: Let the soup boil for another 10 minutes for the flavors to meld. After turning off the heat, let the soup sit for a few minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to settle.

Serving

Country-style pork soup is usually served hot, topped with a spoonful of sour cream for added creaminess. You can also add a few fresh parsley leaves for a more appetizing appearance.

Practical tips

- Choosing the meat: Opt for pork with a bit of fat, as this will add flavor and juiciness to the soup.
- Vegetables: Use fresh vegetables for the best results, but frozen vegetables can be a convenient alternative.
- Borscht: If you don’t have borscht, you can use lemon juice or vinegar to add acidity, but the taste will be different.
- Variations: You can also add other vegetables, such as zucchini or peas, depending on your preferences. Additionally, you can replace pork with chicken or turkey for a lighter version.

Frequently asked questions

1. How long can I keep the soup?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can freeze it for longer storage, but the texture of the vegetables may suffer.

2. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, you can use frozen vegetables, but make sure to add them directly to boiling water to maintain texture.

3. Is this a healthy recipe?
Pork soup is a good source of protein and vitamins from vegetables. You can adapt the recipe to make it lower in calories by using chicken or low-starch vegetables.

4. What side dishes pair well with the soup?
A slice of fresh bread, polenta, or a simple green salad are excellent accompaniments to complete the meal.

Nutrition

This soup offers a good balance of protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it a healthy choice for everyday meals. Each serving has approximately 250 calories, depending on the ingredients used and portion sizes.

Regardless of the occasion, country-style pork soup is a dish that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones, offering not only a delicious taste but also a warm, familiar experience. Enjoy every spoonful!