Potato soup with ribs

Potato soup with smoked ribs is a traditional recipe, full of flavor and warmth, that brings a sense of comfort in every bowl. It is a perfect dish for chilly days or for moments when you need a comforting and nourishing meal. With a delicious combination of fresh vegetables and smoked ribs, this soup is not only nutritious but also extremely tasty.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients

- 7-8 potatoes (about 1 kg)
- 1 medium onion
- 1 large carrot
- 1 ripe tomato
- 2 tablespoons of mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)
- 2 tablespoons of homemade tomato paste
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 300 g smoked ribs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 and a half cups of borscht (about 350 ml)
- 5 heaping tablespoons of sour cream

Preparation

1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by filling a large pot with 5-6 liters of water and place it over medium heat. Meanwhile, cut the smoked ribs into suitable pieces. This will give the soup a rich flavor, so make sure it is of good quality.

2. Boil the meat: When the water starts to boil, add the pieces of ribs. Boil them for 25 minutes until they become tender and aromatic. This step is essential to infuse the soup with the delicious flavors of the meat.

3. Prepare the vegetables: Meanwhile, peel and wash the potatoes, then cut them into cubes. Peel and chop the onion finely. Peel the carrot and cut it into small pieces, and peel and cube the tomato. If using frozen vegetables, rinse them under cold water.

4. Add the vegetables: Once the ribs have boiled, add all the prepared vegetables to the pot along with the mixed vegetables. Let everything boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. Seasoning: When the vegetables are almost cooked (about 15-20 minutes), add the tomato paste and borscht. Season with salt and pepper to taste. It is important to adjust the seasonings according to your preferences, as each ingredient brings a distinct note.

6. Finalizing the soup: Let the soup boil for a few moments, then add the sour cream. This will make the soup creamier and richer. Let it boil 2-3 more times so that the flavors combine perfectly.

7. Serving: Remove the soup from the heat and finely chop the fresh parsley. Generously sprinkle it on top for an extra touch of freshness and color.

Serving suggestion

Potato soup with smoked ribs is served hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or polenta. You can also add a dash of hot pepper for an extra kick if you like. This recipe pairs wonderfully with a glass of dry white wine or a cold beer.

Useful tips

- Vegetarian option: You can replace the ribs with mushrooms or marinated tofu to create a vegetarian version of the soup. Use water or vegetable broth instead of borscht to maintain the rich flavor.
- Preserving aroma: If you want to enhance the flavor even more, you can add a few peppercorns or a bay leaf during boiling.
- Thickening the soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a tablespoon of flour dissolved in cold water before adding the sour cream.

Nutritional information

A serving of this soup contains approximately 250 calories, making it a nourishing and satisfying meal. Potatoes are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, while the ribs provide protein, and the vegetables add essential vitamins and fiber.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use other types of meat? Yes, you can use pork, beef, or even chicken. Each type of meat will add a distinct flavor.
- How long can the soup be stored? The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. It can be reheated, but it is best fresh.
- Can I freeze the soup? Yes, the soup can be frozen. Make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in airtight containers.

This potato soup with smoked ribs is not just a delicious recipe, but also a way to gather family around the table to savor every spoonful of this comforting dish. Enjoy your meal!