Potato soup with lovage

Potato soup with lovage - a comforting recipe, full of flavors and a culinary tradition that connects us to our roots. This dish, easy to prepare, is ideal for cool days or when we want to enjoy a nutritious meal, but especially easy to customize. Begin your culinary journey with me and discover how to make a special potato soup that will bring joy to every bowl.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:

- 2 large potatoes (approx. 500 g)
- 100 g smoked pork belly (optional for a vegetarian version)
- 1 large onion
- 2 small carrots or 1 large carrot
- 1 stalk of celery
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red for an extra splash of color)
- 125 g creamy yogurt
- 2 tablespoons of sour cream
- A sprig of fresh lovage
- 2 liters of water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 liter of magic borscht (or less, depending on preferences)

Step by step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling and chopping the vegetables. Cut the pork belly into small cubes to release its aroma during cooking. Finely chop the onion, celery, and bell pepper, while slicing the carrots into rounds. Peel and cube the potatoes.

2. Boiling the base: In a large pot, add 2 liters of water and bring it to a boil. When the water starts to boil, add the pork belly cubes. Let it boil for 2-3 minutes to release the smoky aroma.

3. Adding the vegetables: After the pork belly has boiled for a moment, add the onion, celery, and bell pepper. Sprinkle a little salt to help the vegetables release their juices. Let it boil for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Including the carrots and potatoes: Add the carrots and potatoes to the pot. These vegetables will not only provide a pleasant texture but also a sweet flavor that will balance the aromas. Let everything boil over medium heat for another 15-20 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

5. Flavoring the soup: When the vegetables are almost done, add the magic borscht. This will bring a specific sour taste to the soup. Adjust the taste with salt and pepper as preferred. Let it boil for another 5-10 minutes.

6. Finalizing the soup: Finally, turn off the heat and prepare a mixture of yogurt and sour cream. This will provide a special creaminess to your soup. Mix well and add to the pot, stirring gently. Cover the pot and let the soup rest for 30 minutes so that the flavors blend even better.

7. Serving: Before serving, add freshly chopped lovage on top for an extra touch of freshness. You can also offer extra yogurt or sour cream for those who prefer a creamier texture.

Serving suggestions: This potato soup with lovage pairs perfectly with a slice of warm homemade bread or crunchy croutons. Additionally, a glass of white wine or a refreshing lemonade can perfectly complement the meal.

Nutritional benefits: Potato soup is an excellent source of carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Potatoes provide fiber, while the vegetables contribute to the daily vitamin intake. The pork belly adds protein, but for a vegetarian version, you can exclude it. This recipe is relatively low in calories, with about 150-200 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients used.

Variations and tips:
- If you want a spicy version, add a little chili pepper or paprika.
- You can replace the pork belly with bacon or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Experiment with other herbs, such as dill or parsley, to change the flavor profile.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other vegetables? Sure! The soup can be customized with seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini or green beans.
2. What else can I add for extra flavor? A teaspoon of paprika or dried herbs can enrich the taste.
3. How long does the soup keep in the fridge? The soup keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days. It can also be frozen for later use.

I encourage you to try this simple yet flavorful recipe. Potato soup with lovage is more than just a meal; it's a wonderful way to bring family and friends together around the table. Enjoy every spoonful and let yourself be carried away by the warm memories that this recipe can bring. Enjoy your meal!