Rădăuțean soup

Rădăuți Soup: A Comforting Delicacy

Rădăuți soup is one of those recipes that brings a feeling of warmth and comfort, with deep roots in traditional cuisine. With a mix of poultry meat, fresh vegetables, and the delicious flavors of sour cream and garlic, this soup is a true feast for the taste buds. Here’s how you can prepare it step by step to achieve the perfect result!

Preparation time: 25 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 6

Ingredients:

- 500 g poultry meat (breast or thighs)
- 400 g sour cream (the richest you can find)
- 3 eggs
- 100 ml vinegar
- 6 cloves of garlic
- 3 medium red bell peppers
- 2 medium onions
- 1 small celery
- 3 carrots
- 1 bunch of parsley
- ½ bunch of lovage
- 2-3 tablespoons of oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons of chicken stock concentrate (the secret to flavor)
- 50 ml lemon juice (approximately from one small lemon)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by chopping the onion, carrot, and celery into small cubes. These vegetables will form the flavor base of the soup. The red bell pepper can be cut into larger cubes to be added later.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot, heat 2-3 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, and celery, allowing them to sauté for 5 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant.

3. Boiling the meat: Add enough water to cover the vegetables and place the poultry meat on top. Let it boil for 15 minutes. This step is essential as the meat will absorb the flavors of the vegetables.

4. Adding the bell pepper: After 15 minutes, add the diced bell pepper and let everything boil together for another 10 minutes. The meat should be tender and well-cooked.

5. Separating the meat: Remove the pieces of meat from the pot and let them cool slightly. Use two forks to shred the meat into strips, being careful not to cut it with a knife. If using thighs or drumsticks, keep the skin for a richer flavor.

6. Returning the meat to the pot: Put the meat back into the pot with the vegetables and let it boil together.

7. Preparing the sour cream mixture: In a bowl, separate the egg whites from the yolks of the 3 eggs. Add the sour cream over the yolks and mix well. Add the crushed or finely chopped garlic, along with half of the vinegar and the lemon juice.

8. Incorporating the mixture: Reduce the heat to low. Add the egg and sour cream mixture to the pot, stirring constantly to prevent curdling. Add the remaining herbs (parsley and lovage) and let it simmer on low heat for 10 minutes.

9. Finishing the dish: Turn off the heat and add the remaining vinegar and lemon juice, adjusting the taste with salt and pepper as preferred.

10. Serving: Rădăuți soup is served hot, alongside garlic sauce and, for those who prefer a more intense flavor, additional vinegar. You can also add a slice of fresh bread or crunchy croutons for extra texture.

Practical tips:

- Vinegar: You can adjust the amount of vinegar according to your preferences, but remember that it adds a characteristic flavor to the soup. If you like it more tangy, add a little more.

- Sour cream: Choose a high-quality sour cream, as it will make a difference in the creaminess of the soup.

- Vegetables: If you prefer a smoother texture, you can puree the vegetables after boiling, leaving only the bell pepper for color. This will turn the soup into a thick puree.

- Variations: Instead of poultry, you can also try pork or beef, but the cooking time will vary. You can also add other vegetables, such as zucchini or potatoes, to give it more substance.

Nutritional benefits:

Rădăuți soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Poultry meat is an excellent source of lean protein, while the vegetables provide fiber, vitamins, and essential minerals. Sour cream adds calcium and healthy fats, but don’t forget to choose a higher fat version for the best flavor.

Calories: A serving of Rădăuți soup contains approximately 300-400 calories, depending on the exact quantities of ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use different types of meat? Yes, you can experiment with different types of meat, but the cooking time will need to be adjusted.

- Can the soup be frozen? Yes, the soup can be frozen, but it is recommended to add the sour cream and eggs only before serving to prevent separation.

- What drinks pair well with the soup? Rădăuți soup pairs perfectly with a dry white wine or a refreshing blonde beer.

Rădăuți soup is more than just a meal; it is a culinary experience that connects you with traditions and family. So, prepare your ingredients, dress in comfortable clothes, and enjoy this delicacy at home! Enjoy your meal!