Rădăuțean soup

Rădăuți Soup – Flavor and Tradition in Every Spoonful

Rădăuți Soup is more than just a simple soup; it is a story, a culinary ritual that brings together tradition and innovation. This Romanian delicacy, with its rich taste and creamy consistency, is often enjoyed in restaurants across the country, as well as in our homes, where each housewife has her own version. The soup is associated with moments of indulgence and conviviality, perfect for bringing smiles to the faces of loved ones.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients
- 2 medium carrots
- 1 parsley root
- 1 parsnip
- 1/2 celery
- 1 onion
- 1 head of garlic
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 1 free-range chicken breast (approximately 500 g)
- 200 ml sour cream
- 2 egg yolks
- White pepper to taste
- Salt to taste
- Juice of one lemon
- Optional: 1-2 tablespoons of vinegar
- Optional: hot pepper for serving

Nutritional Information
Rădăuți Soup is a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals due to its fresh ingredients. The chicken breast provides lean protein, while the vegetables add fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins. The sour cream, although higher in calories, adds creaminess and a rich flavor. A serving of soup contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of sour cream used.

Step by Step: How to Prepare Rădăuți Soup

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients
To achieve a delicious soup, it is essential to handle the ingredients properly. Clean, wash, and chop the vegetables: carrots, parsley, parsnip, and celery. The onion can be left whole, as we will remove it later. These vegetables will add flavor and a sweet note to your soup.

Step 2: Boiling the Chicken Breast
In a large pot, add 4 liters of water and a pinch of salt. Add the skinless chicken breast to boil. When the water starts to boil, skim the soup to remove impurities. This step is crucial for obtaining a clear soup.

Step 3: Adding the Vegetables
Once the chicken breast is boiled, add the chopped vegetables. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer over medium to low heat. The soup will be ready when the meat easily separates from the bones, approximately 30-40 minutes.

Step 4: Cooking the Soup
Remove the chicken breast from the pot and let it cool slightly. Cut the meat into small pieces and return it to the soup. Let it simmer for a few more minutes to combine the flavors.

Step 5: Preparing the Sour Cream Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk the sour cream and egg yolks well. It is important to mix continuously to avoid the eggs curdling. Gradually add this mixture to the soup, stirring constantly to achieve a creamy texture.

Step 6: Flavoring the Soup
Add the lemon juice and crushed garlic. The garlic will give the soup a distinctive aroma, while the lemon will add a slightly sour note, balancing the flavors.

Step 7: Final Cooking
Let the soup simmer for a few minutes after adding the garlic. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper to your liking. If desired, you can also add vinegar for an even tangier flavor.

Step 8: Serving
Serve the soup hot, sprinkled with chopped fresh parsley on top. You can also add hot pepper for those who prefer a spicy taste. This soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of fresh bread.

Practical Tips for Perfecting Rădăuți Soup
- Quality of ingredients is essential: Use free-range chicken breast, if possible, for a more authentic taste.
- Experiment with the sour cream: If you want a lighter version, you can use lower-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt.
- Variations of vegetables: Add a handful of peas or corn to diversify the texture and add natural sweetness.
- Serve with a personal touch: Try serving the soup with toasted bread croutons for an extra crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can experiment with turkey or even beef, but the cooking time will vary.

2. How can I store the soup for the next day?
The soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

3. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
No, but you can adapt the recipe using various vegetables and a substitute for sour cream. You can use tofu or a plant-based sour cream.

4. What wines pair well with Rădăuți Soup?
A dry white wine or rosé would perfectly complement the flavors of the soup.

Rădăuți Soup is a true culinary treasure that will transport you to the heart of Romanian tradition. So, get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious dish that will surely bring smiles and appreciation to your table. Enjoy your meal!