Pork rib soup

Pork rib soup is a hearty dish, full of flavors and with a delicious history, bringing together culinary tradition and the comfort of home. This soup, with a savory combination of smoked meat and fresh vegetables, is perfect for chilly days or for moments when you want to indulge in a comforting dish. I will guide you step by step to achieve a perfect soup that will bring joy to your table.

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

Ingredients

- 200 g smoked pork ribs
- 250 g fresh pork ribs
- 4 carrots
- 1 onion
- 1 parsley root
- 1 celery root
- 1 red bell pepper
- 2 potatoes
- 2 eggs
- 200 g sour cream
- 1 bunch of parsley leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried tarragon
- salt and pepper, to taste
- 200 ml homemade borscht

Step-by-step preparation

1. Boiling the meat
In an 8-liter pot, bring the smoked and fresh ribs, cut into smaller pieces, to a boil. Cover with cold water and let it boil over medium heat. It is important to remove the foam that forms on the surface to have a clear and tasty soup.

2. Preparing the vegetables
While the meat is boiling, clean the vegetables. Finely chop the onion, carrots, parsley root, and celery. Cut the bell pepper into small cubes. This combination of vegetables will give the soup a rich flavor and pleasant texture.

3. Adding the vegetables
When the meat is half cooked (about 30 minutes), add the onion, chopped vegetables, and bell pepper. Let it boil together for 10-15 minutes until the vegetables become slightly soft.

4. Adding the potatoes
Add the diced potatoes. They will help thicken the soup and add substance. Continue boiling until all ingredients are well cooked.

5. Seasoning
Add salt and pepper to taste, then incorporate the homemade borscht. The borscht will provide a pleasant acidity to the soup, balancing the rich flavors of the meat and vegetables.

6. Preparing the dressing
In a separate bowl, beat the two egg yolks with sour cream until a homogeneous mixture is formed. This will add creaminess to the soup. Gently heat the mixture, then gradually add it to the soup, stirring constantly to prevent the eggs from coagulating.

7. Adding the egg whites
The remaining egg whites can be added to the soup, providing an interesting and additional texture. Make sure they are well beaten and added in the last minutes of boiling.

8. Finalizing the soup
Finally, add the chopped parsley leaves and dried tarragon. These will add extra freshness and flavor. Let the soup come to a boil again, then turn off the heat.

Serving

Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley leaves. You can add a teaspoon of sour cream on top for an elegant appearance and extra creaminess. It is delicious alongside a slice of homemade bread, freshly baked. This soup pairs excellently with a refreshing drink, such as fruit compote or herbal tea, which will perfectly complement the intense flavors of the dish.

Practical tips

- Choosing the meat: Use quality pork, preferably from a trusted supplier. The smoked ribs bring a deep flavor, but you can also experiment with other types of meat, such as ribs or thighs.
- Vegetarian option: If you want a lighter version, you can replace the meat with mushrooms and seasonal vegetables, keeping the same spices and dressing.
- Thickening the soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a potato puree or a boiled and blended celery root.

Nutritional benefits

Pork rib soup is not only delicious but also full of nutrients. Pork is an excellent source of protein, while the vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. This dish is ideal for providing you with the necessary energy on active days.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of meat, such as beef or chicken, but the cooking time may vary.

- How long can the soup be stored?
The soup can be kept in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can freeze portions to have them on hand on busy days.

- Is it suitable for a diet?
Although it is a heartier dish, you can adjust the ingredients to reduce calories, such as using lean meat and light sour cream.

Pork rib soup is a dish that brings much more than just the satisfaction of taste: it also brings a story, tradition, and comfort. So, I encourage you to try it and enjoy every spoonful!