Pork soup

Pork soup with vegetables and greens

When it comes to culinary comfort, few dishes compare to a warm and nourishing soup. Pork soup with vegetables is a traditional dish that has brought together generations of cooks, each adding their personal touch. With a rich flavor and comforting texture, this soup is perfect for any season, bringing a touch of warmth on colder days and an explosion of freshness on hot days.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Necessary ingredients:

- 500 g pork shoulder with bone (an excellent choice for a tasty soup)
- 500 ml borscht (or more, to taste)
- 100 ml tomato juice or puree (for a tangy note and intense flavor)
- Salt, to taste
- 1 bunch of greens (parsley or lovage, for added freshness)
- Vegetables of choice:
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper (any color, depending on preference), diced
- 1 carrot, sliced or diced
- 1 small celery root, diced
- 1 parsnip or parsley root, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced (optional)

Preparation steps:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by washing the pork shoulder well, cutting it into medium-sized cubes. This will allow the meat to cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the vegetables.

2. Boiling the meat: Place the meat in a large pot and cover it with cold water. Bring the water to a boil over medium heat. As the water begins to boil, impurities will rise to the surface. These should be removed with a skimmer to obtain a clear and tasty broth.

3. Add the vegetables: After the meat has boiled for about 30 minutes and has been skimmed, you can add the vegetables. Start with the onion, carrot, celery, and parsnip, which require longer cooking. Then, after 10-15 minutes, add the potatoes and bell pepper. Let everything simmer over medium heat for 20-30 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.

4. Seasoning: When the vegetables are cooked, add salt to taste, then the borscht and tomato juice. These ingredients will add a pleasant acidity and vibrant color to the soup. Let it simmer for a few minutes for the flavors to combine.

5. Finishing: Once the soup is boiling, turn off the heat and add the finely chopped greens. This will provide an extra freshness and perfectly complement the flavors. You can also add a little freshly ground pepper if you want a spicier taste.

6. Serving: The soup is served hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or polenta. You can add sour cream for extra creaminess, but this is optional, depending on personal preferences.

Useful tips:

- You can vary the vegetables according to the season or preferences. Zucchini, for example, can add a pleasant texture but can be omitted in the cold season.
- If you prefer a more intense flavor, let the soup simmer longer for the flavors to concentrate.
- Borscht can be replaced with apple cider vinegar or lemon juice if you don't have borscht on hand.

Nutritional information (per serving):

- Calories: approximately 300 kcal
- Protein: 25 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 3 g

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use chicken instead of pork?
Yes, chicken is an excellent alternative and can reduce calories. The soup will have a different taste but will be just as delicious.

2. What can I do with leftover soup?
The soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat and enjoy it. It can also be frozen, but it is recommended to add the greens only after thawing.

3. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables are a convenient alternative, but the taste will be slightly different from fresh ones.

4. How can I make the soup spicier?
Add fresh chili peppers or chili flakes during preparation for a more intense flavor.

This pork soup with vegetables is more than just a simple dish; it is a culinary experience that brings together family and friends. Enjoy every spoonful and let yourself be carried away by the traditional flavors! Bon appétit!