Potato borscht with smoked pork ribs

Potato borscht with smoked pork ribs - A warm and comforting recipe

Do you remember those chilly days when a steaming soup filled your home with aromas and warmth? Potato borscht with smoked pork ribs is such a recipe, which will not only delight your taste buds but also transport you back in time to moments of conviviality with loved ones.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total time: 2 hours
Servings: 8

Ingredients:

- 2 kg smoked pork ribs
- 1.5 l borscht (preferably natural borscht)
- 1 kg potatoes
- 2 red bell peppers
- 2 red onions
- 2 parsnips
- 1 medium celery
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 1 large tomato
- 4 eggs
- salt, freshly ground pink pepper, salt-free vegetable seasoning

Nutritional details:

This borscht is rich in protein due to the pork and provides a significant amount of vitamins and minerals from the vegetables. Additionally, the borscht adds a touch of acidity, which is very beneficial for digestion. A serving of borscht contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the proportions of the ingredients.

Preparing the ingredients:

1. Pork ribs: Cut the meat into suitable pieces and wash them well under cold running water. This step is essential to remove excess salt and impurities from smoking.

2. Vegetables: Peel and wash all the vegetables. Cut the potatoes into cubes, the bell peppers into strips, the onions into julienne, and the parsnip and celery into rounds. You can chop the tomato into small cubes.

3. Parsley: Wash it well and chop it very finely. This will add a fresh and vibrant note to your borscht.

Cooking the borscht:

1. In a 6-liter pot, add 3 liters of water and bring the pork ribs to a boil. Once the water reaches boiling point, remove the foam that forms on the surface with a skimmer – this step is crucial for a clear and tasty borscht.

2. After removing the foam, let the meat simmer over medium heat for about 30 minutes. Here, the smoky aroma will begin to release, filling the entire kitchen with an irresistible scent.

3. Add all the chopped vegetables to the pot: potatoes, bell peppers, onions, parsnip, and celery. Let everything simmer together for 30 minutes until the vegetables become tender but not overly soft.

4. In another container, bring the borscht to a boil. Once it is boiling, add it to the pot along with the vegetables and meat. Let it simmer for another 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to combine well.

5. Check if the meat and vegetables are cooked. If so, let the soup rest for a few minutes.

6. Beat the eggs until frothy and gradually add them to the soup, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Also, add the chopped parsley, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Optionally, you can add a hot pepper for an extra kick. I recommend adding it gradually to achieve the desired intensity.

Serving:

Serve the borscht hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or polenta. A quarter of a lemon can be a great addition to enhance the flavors. This borscht can be accompanied by a refreshing drink, such as fruit compote or herbal tea, to balance its rich taste.

Possible variations:

- You can replace the pork ribs with other types of meat, such as chicken or turkey, for a lighter version.
- If you prefer a more sour borscht, you can add a little more borscht or even lemon juice.
- A vegetarian version can include tofu or various vegetables, such as zucchini or cauliflower.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use store-bought borscht?
Yes, but I recommend choosing natural borschts without preservatives for an authentic taste.

2. How can I store leftover borscht?
You can store the borscht in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days or freeze it for later consumption.

3. Is borscht healthy?
Yes, it is an excellent source of nutrients due to the vegetables and proteins from the meat. Additionally, the sourness of the borscht aids in digestion.

Personal note:

This potato borscht with smoked pork ribs recipe is one of my favorites, not only for its delicious taste but also for the memories that surround it. I remember evenings spent with family, when we all gathered around the table, sharing stories and laughter, enveloped in the familiar aroma of the soup. May you also enjoy these special moments!

Cook with love and joy, and remember: every recipe is a story to tell, a memory to create!