Pork shank soup

Pork Shin Soup: A Warm Recipe for the Soul

Pork shin soup is a traditional dish, full of flavor and warmth, that reminds us of family Sunday meals. This comforting soup is not only a great example of comfort food but also an excellent way to bring together simple yet quality ingredients to create a culinary delight. I invite you to discover the necessary steps to achieve a perfect soup that will delight both family and friends.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 pork shin (1.5-2 kg) – choose a shin with a good meat-to-fat ratio for a tasty soup
- 1 liter of borscht (or cabbage juice) – borscht will add a tangy note, but if you prefer a less acidic version, cabbage juice is a wonderful choice
- 2 carrots, finely chopped – carrots not only provide a pleasant texture but also a vibrant color
- 2-3 onions, finely chopped – onion will add depth and flavor to the soup
- 1 root vegetable (parsley or parsnip), finely chopped – the root vegetable will enhance the aroma
- 1 small celery, finely chopped – an essential ingredient for a rich taste
- 5 tomatoes – you can use fresh or canned tomatoes; these will provide sweetness and acidity
- Fresh parsley and lovage, finely chopped – to add a fragrant finish
- Salt, to taste

Preparing the soup:

1. Preparing the shin: Start by thoroughly washing the pork shin, ensuring it is clean. Choose a large pot, deep enough to hold the meat. Place the shin in cold water, ensuring it is completely covered. This step is essential, as it begins the process of extracting flavors from the meat.

2. Boiling: Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. It is important to remove any foam that forms on the surface each time it appears. This is a crucial step, as it will ensure a clear soup without impurities.

3. Adding the vegetables: After about 1.5 hours of boiling, when the meat is nearly cooked, add the finely chopped vegetables: carrots, onion, root vegetable, and celery. These will not only add flavor but also essential nutrients to your soup. Let them simmer together with the shin for about 30 minutes.

4. Boiling the borscht: In another pot, boil the borscht (or cabbage juice) to prepare it for adding. This will add a tangy note to the soup, so make sure it is well cooked.

5. Finalizing the soup: Once the vegetables are cooked, add the borscht and let everything boil for another 2-3 minutes. Now is the time to adjust the salt, being careful not to overdo it, as the borscht may already be salty.

6. Flavoring: Turn off the heat and add the finely chopped parsley and lovage. These fresh herbs will give a special fragrance to your soup. Cover the pot and let the soup rest for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

7. Serving: Pork shin soup is served hot, with a spoonful of sour cream on top. The creamy taste of the sour cream will perfectly complement the rich flavor of the soup.

Suggestions and variations:

- Additions: You can experiment with other vegetables, such as bell peppers or cauliflower, to add additional textures and flavors.
- Spices: If you want a spicy note, you can add a pinch of dried chili or a few black peppercorns.
- Alternative servings: The soup can also be served with croutons for a crunchy texture or with a slice of homemade bread.

Nutritional information:

Pork shin soup is an excellent source of protein due to the pork, and the vegetables provide an important intake of vitamins and minerals. Each serving contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of sour cream added. This soup is also a good choice for supporting the immune system, thanks to its nutritious ingredients.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use beef instead of pork? Yes, you can use beef, but the taste will be different, and the cooking time may vary.
2. Is pork shin soup freezable? Yes, the soup can be frozen without problems, but it is recommended to freeze it without sour cream, which you can add when serving.
3. How can I make the soup more tangy? If you want a more tangy soup, you can add more borscht or cabbage juice during cooking.

This pork shin soup recipe is not just a meal but also a culinary experience that will fill your heart with joy. It is perfect for chilly days or family meals, being a symbol of hospitality and culinary traditions. So, put on your apron and get ready to enjoy a delicious dish that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!