Potato soup with smoked meat and lovage

Potato borscht with smoked meat and lovage

In a world full of sophisticated recipes and trendy ingredients, there is a dish that reminds us of the simplicity and warmth of traditional meals: potato borscht with smoked meat. This hearty soup not only delights our taste buds but also provides a dose of comfort on cooler days. It is perfect for enjoying with family or friends, and its inviting aroma will make you come back to it again and again.

Preparation time
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 45 minutes
- Total time: 60 minutes
- Number of servings: 4

Ingredients
- 4 medium potatoes (approximately 600 g)
- 1 small onion
- 200 g smoked meat (preferably a piece of pork or other smoked meat)
- 1 cube of Knorr smoked meat
- 1 bunch of fresh lovage
- 1/2 cup of fermented borscht
- 1 small carrot
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon of sour cream

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by peeling all the vegetables. Chop the onion finely, peel, wash, and dice the carrot into small cubes. Peel, wash, and cut the potatoes into medium-sized cubes (about 2-3 cm). It is important that the sizes are uniform for even cooking.

2. Boiling the vegetables
In a large pot, add about 2 liters of water and bring to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the onion, carrot, and potatoes. Let them boil over medium heat for 20 minutes, until the vegetables are nearly cooked.

3. Adding the smoked meat
Meanwhile, cut the smoked meat into small pieces. This step is important because smaller pieces will infuse better into the soup, providing a rich flavor. Wash the smoked meat well before adding it to the pot to remove excess salt. After 20 minutes, add the smoked meat to the pot, along with the Knorr cube, salt, and pepper to taste. Let it boil for another 15-20 minutes until all ingredients are cooked.

4. Preparing the borscht
In another container, bring the fermented borscht to a boil. This is a traditional technique that helps preserve the flavors and acidity of the borscht. Once the borscht has boiled, add it to the pot with the vegetables and smoked meat.

5. Finishing the soup
When the borscht is added, finely chop the fresh lovage and add it to the pot. This will add a fresh and aromatic note to the soup. In a bowl, take out 4-5 tablespoons of the hot broth and mix it with the sour cream, then pour it back into the pot. This trick will prevent the sour cream from curdling and will provide a creamy texture.

6. Serving
The soup is served hot, preferably with a slice of fresh bread or polenta. You can add a sprig of fresh lovage on top for a more appealing look.

Practical tips
- Choosing the smoked meat: The type of smoked meat used can significantly change the flavor of the borscht. You can experiment with different types, such as smoked sausages or ham, to find your preferred combination.
- Lovage: It is recommended to use fresh lovage, as its flavor is much more intense than that of dried lovage. If you don’t have lovage, you can try dill, although the taste will be different.
- Variations: You can also add other vegetables, such as celery or bell pepper, for extra flavor. Additionally, you can replace the borscht with lemon juice for a different note.

Nutritional benefits
Potato borscht with smoked meat is not only delicious but also nutritious. Potatoes are a good source of complex carbohydrates and fiber, while the smoked meat provides protein, essential for a balanced diet. Lovage has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, contributing to a healthy immune system.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, frozen vegetables can be a quick option, but the taste will be slightly different compared to fresh ones.
- What can I do with the leftovers? The borscht keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat it the next day, and the taste will be even better.
- Is this recipe suitable for vegans? Unfortunately, this borscht contains meat, but you can adapt the recipe using vegetables and seasoning with smoked spices to create a vegan version.

Ideal pairings
This potato borscht pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or warm polenta. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine or a craft beer can perfectly complement the meal.

Final note
When cooking, remember that every recipe is an opportunity to express your creativity. Potato borscht with smoked meat is a perfect choice for cool days, bringing warmth and comfort in every spoonful. So gather your ingredients and enjoy this traditional recipe, which will surely become a family favorite!