Pork soup with vegetables

Pork soup with vegetables – a comforting delight for the soul and body

Pork soup with vegetables is one of those recipes that reminds us of family meals, days spent in the kitchen with loved ones, and the unmistakable aroma of fresh vegetables and patiently cooked meat. This soup is not only nourishing but also versatile, easily adaptable to everyone’s preferences. It can be made with pork, but also with chicken breast, beef, or even fish. So, get ready to explore this delicious recipe!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes (in a pressure cooker)
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6

Necessary ingredients:

- 800 g pork (thigh is ideal)
- 100 ml oil (preferably sunflower or olive)
- 1 large onion
- 1 Kapia pepper
- 1 parsley root
- 1 slice of celery root
- 1 cup green peas (preferably frozen)
- 1 medium tomato
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 carrots
- 2 potatoes
- 2 stalks of celery
- 1/2 teaspoon hot pepper paste (optional)
- Fresh dill (to taste)
- Fresh parsley (for serving)
- Salt (to taste)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by cleaning the vegetables. Wash all the vegetables well and cut them into suitable cubes. The onion should be finely chopped for even sautéing, while the carrots, potatoes, pepper, and celery can be cut into cubes of about 1-2 cm.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onion, Kapia pepper, carrots, and parsley and celery roots. Sauté the vegetables for 4-5 minutes until they become slightly soft and release their aroma.

3. Adding the meat: Cut the pork thigh into medium-sized cubes (about 2 cm) and add it to the pot. Stir well to combine the ingredients. Let the meat brown for a few minutes, being careful not to burn it.

4. Boiling the soup: Add 3-4 liters of water to the pot, along with salt to taste. Cover the pot and let it boil. If using a pressure cooker, make sure to follow the instructions to avoid accidents. Boil for about 30 minutes from the moment it starts to hiss. This technique will help achieve a tender texture for the meat.

5. Adding the final vegetables: After the boiling time has expired, remove the pot from the heat and place it under a cold water jet to release the pressure. Carefully open the lid. Now add the chopped tomato, green peas, and celery stalks. Let it boil for another 5-10 minutes until all the vegetables are cooked but still have a pleasant texture.

6. Sour the soup: Finally, dilute the tomato paste with a little water and add it to the pot, along with the hot pepper paste if you want a hint of spiciness. Stir well and allow it to come to a final boil.

7. Serving: The pork soup with vegetables is served hot, sprinkled with freshly chopped parsley. You can add a tablespoon of sour cream on top for an extra creaminess.

Practical tips:

- Basic ingredients: Use fresh vegetables for a more intense flavor, but you can also opt for frozen vegetables, especially peas, which retain almost all their nutritional properties.
- Variations: You can add vegetables like zucchini, cauliflower, or mushrooms to diversify the flavors. The soup can also be made vegetarian by replacing the meat with legumes or tofu.
- Soup flavor: If you want a richer taste, you can add a teaspoon of sweet or smoked paprika during the sautéing of the vegetables.
- Alternative servings: The soup pairs perfectly with a slice of fresh bread or warm polenta.

Nutritional information:

Pork soup with vegetables is an excellent source of protein due to the pork, while the vegetables add essential fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The calories vary depending on the servings, but a serving can contain around 350-450 calories, depending on the amount of meat and oil used. This is a nourishing meal, ideal for a family dinner or to delight your guests.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of meat? Absolutely! The soup is versatile and can be easily adapted. You can use chicken breast, beef, or even fish.
2. What other vegetables can I add? You can experiment with zucchini, cauliflower, green beans, or any other favorite vegetables.
3. How can I sour the soup if I don’t have tomato paste? You can use tomato juice or even vinegar, depending on your preferences.
4. How long does the soup last? The soup can be kept in the fridge for 3-4 days, and the taste will actually improve the next day.

In conclusion, pork soup with vegetables is a wonderful choice for family meals, offering comfort and satisfaction. Don’t hesitate to experiment and bring a touch of your personal style to each serving. Enjoy every spoonful and cherish the moments spent around the table!