Potato soup with smoked ribs

Potato and Smoked Meat Soup: A Savory and Comforting Recipe

If you are looking for a soup recipe that combines intense flavors and a comforting taste, you have come to the right place! Potato and smoked meat soup is a traditional dish, loved by many of us, that evokes pleasant memories of family meals.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total: 1 hour
Servings: 6

Essential ingredients:
- 500 g of smoked meat (preferably bacon, but you can also use other types)
- 1 large onion
- 1 bell pepper
- 4-5 medium potatoes
- 3 tablespoons of tomato juice
- Sour borscht (preferably from Knorr or another type)
- 70 g of oil
- 1 teaspoon of dried and ground tarragon
- Freshly chopped lovage
- Salt, to taste

The preparation of this soup is simple yet refined. The smoked meat adds a unique flavor, and the combination with the vegetables and borscht will turn this recipe into a true delicacy.

Step by step to a perfect soup:

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by peeling the onion and cutting it into julienne strips. This will form the aromatic base of the soup. The bell pepper should be diced into small cubes for perfect integration into the dish. Peel and cube the potatoes into equal-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.

2. Sautéing the vegetables
In a large pot, add 70 g of oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the onion and chopped bell pepper, allowing them to sauté for 5-6 minutes. This step is crucial for developing the base flavors of the soup. Don’t forget to stir occasionally to prevent the vegetables from burning.

3. Adding the smoked meat
Once the vegetables have softened, add the smoked meat cut into suitable pieces. Let it sauté together with the vegetables for 2-3 minutes. The smoked meat will release fats and flavors, turning the oil into a true nectar of taste.

4. Boiling the ingredients
Now it’s time to add water to the pot, enough to cover all the ingredients. Bring to a boil, then add the cubed potatoes and the teaspoon of dried tarragon. The tarragon will provide a subtle aromatic note that will blend splendidly with the flavor of the smoked meat.

5. Cooking the soup
Let the soup boil until the potatoes start to soften, about 15-20 minutes. At this point, add the 3 tablespoons of tomato juice. This will give a pleasant hue and a slightly tangy flavor, perfectly balanced. Continue to boil for another 20-25 minutes until the potatoes are fully cooked.

6. Finalizing the soup
When the soup is nearly ready, add the borscht. It is essential to taste to adjust the amount of salt. Finally, add the finely chopped lovage to intensify the flavors and bring freshness. Turn off the heat and let the soup sit for a few minutes before serving.

7. Serving
This potato and smoked meat soup is delicious both hot and at room temperature. You can serve it with a slice of fresh bread or polenta. Additionally, a hot pepper on the side can add a bit of spice for those who prefer a spicy note.

Useful tips:
- Choosing the smoked meat: You can experiment with different types of smoked meat. Sausages, pork shoulder, or even smoked bacon can bring a variety of flavors.
- Borscht: If you prefer a more sour taste, feel free to add more borscht, but be careful not to make it too acidic.
- Variations: You can add carrots or celery for extra nutrients and a more complex flavor.

Nutritional information (per serving):
- Calories: approximately 350 kcal
- Protein: 15 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 4 g

Potato and smoked meat soup is not just a nourishing dish, but also a recipe that brings people together. It is ideal for a family weekend meal or to share with friends at a casual gathering. Try serving it with a glass of dry white wine or a cold beer, and you will turn any meal into a celebration of flavors.

Enjoy your meal!