Pork soup with cabbage juice

Pork Soup with Cabbage Juice – A Comforting Delight

Pork soup with cabbage juice is a traditional recipe, enriched with authentic flavors and a tangy taste that will delight your senses. This soup will not only warm your heart but will also bring a touch of nostalgia with every spoonful. Preparing this recipe is simple, and the final result is a delicious dish, perfect for cooler days or family meals.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 500 g pork shoulder (cut into cubes)
- 1 carrot (approximately 100 g)
- 1/2 medium celery (approximately 100 g)
- 1 onion (medium)
- 1 parsley root (approximately 50 g)
- 1 medium red bell pepper
- 2 medium potatoes (approximately 300 g)
- 200 ml tomato juice or 2 tomatoes in juice (peeled and diced)
- 1 egg
- 500 ml cabbage juice (preferably from a barrel)
- 2-3 tablespoons of oil
- Salt (to taste)
- Lovage (fresh, for serving)
- Dill (fresh or dried, for serving)

Step by step:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by washing the pork well under cold running water. Cut the shoulder into cubes of about 2-3 cm. This will allow the meat to cook evenly and remain juicy.

2. Boiling the meat: In a large pot, add water and bring it to a boil. When the water starts boiling, add the meat cubes. It is important to add the meat to boiling water to seal the proteins and keep the meat juicy.

3. Removing the foam: During the boiling process, you will notice foam forming on the surface. Use a skimmer to remove this foam, resulting in a clearer and more appetizing soup.

4. Adding the vegetables: After the meat is half cooked (about 20 minutes), add the chopped vegetables: carrot, celery, onion, and parsley root. Cut the vegetables into cubes or slices, depending on your preference. Boil over medium heat for 10-15 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.

5. Potatoes and bell pepper: Add the chopped bell pepper and cubed potatoes. It is recommended to cut the potatoes into cubes similar in size to the other vegetables to ensure even cooking. Boil everything together for 15-20 minutes.

6. Tomatoes: Once the potatoes are almost done (check with a fork), add the tomato juice or tomatoes in juice. These will add a touch of sweetness and a special flavor to the soup. Let everything boil together for another 5-7 minutes.

7. Adding cabbage juice: Heat the cabbage juice in a separate pot and add it to the soup pot. This is the moment when the soup will acquire its specific tangy taste. Let the soup come to a boil for a few minutes.

8. The egg: Beat an egg in a small bowl and, using a fork, pour it into the soup while continuously stirring to avoid lumps. This step will add a creamy texture to the soup.

9. Finalizing: Add 2-3 tablespoons of oil and taste the soup to check if more salt is needed. If desired, you can also add a little freshly ground pepper for an extra flavor boost.

10. Serving: Turn off the heat and add the chopped lovage and dill. These herbs will enhance the soup's aroma and give it a fresh note.

Practical tip: Use quality cabbage juice, as it will greatly influence the final flavor of the soup. If you prefer a less sour taste, you can mix the cabbage juice with a little water.

Nutritional benefits: Pork soup with cabbage juice is a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Pork is rich in B vitamins and iron, while the vegetables add fiber, antioxidants, and essential nutrients. Cabbage juice is also known for its beneficial properties for digestion.

Possible variations: You can replace pork with chicken or turkey for a lighter version. Additionally, you can experiment with different vegetables, adding zucchini or green beans for extra color and texture.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use beef instead of pork? Of course! The soup will have a different taste, but it will be just as delicious.
- How can I freeze the soup? It is recommended to let the soup cool completely, then portion it into airtight containers for freezing.
- How long does the soup last in the fridge? The soup can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days in airtight containers.

Delicious combinations: Pork soup with cabbage juice pairs perfectly with a slice of fresh bread or polenta. A glass of dry white wine or a cold beer can perfectly complement the meal.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to put on your apron and enjoy this delicious recipe! Bon appétit!