Rădăuți soup

Rădăuțean soup is a traditional recipe full of flavors and taste, with a rich history that reflects the culinary traditions of the region it comes from. This soup is not only nourishing but also a true delight, bringing together simple ingredients with an intense flavor. From succulent chicken thighs to fresh vegetables and creamy sour cream, each bite will transport you to a world of aromas and nostalgia.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 6 chicken thighs (approximately 600 g)
- 3 carrots
- 2 parsnips
- 130 g celery
- 2 bell peppers
- 1 large onion
- 7 cloves of garlic
- 1 bunch of finely chopped parsley
- 3 egg yolks
- 200 g sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Delikat (optional)
- 30-50 ml vinegar

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by peeling the onion, carrots, parsnip, and celery. Remove the stems from the peppers and take out the seeds. Wash all vegetables with cold water to remove impurities. Peel the garlic cloves and lightly crush them to release their flavors. Finely chop the parsley to add at the end for extra freshness.

2. Boiling the meat:
In a large pot, add 4 liters of water and put in the chicken thighs. Add the onion, carrots, parsnip, celery, and whole bell peppers. Season with salt to taste. Let it boil for 45 minutes or until the meat is tender and cooked.

3. Draining the vegetables and meat:
After the meat and vegetables are cooked, remove them with a slotted spoon and place them in a strainer to drain. Remove the pot with the soup from the heat to prepare for the next step.

4. Processing the vegetables:
Chop the carrots into small cubes, and peel and cut the bell pepper into cubes as well. After boiling, add the onion, parsnip, and celery into a bowl and puree them with an immersion blender until you get a fine puree.

5. Preparing the sour cream sauce:
In a separate bowl, place 3 egg yolks and mix them well with a wooden spoon. Add the sour cream and mix until smooth. Now add the crushed garlic, mixing again. It is essential that the soup you add to this mixture is cold to avoid curdling the yolks.

6. Finalizing the soup:
Put the pot with the soup back on the heat and add the vegetable puree obtained earlier. Then add the meat shredded from the bones, the carrots, and the bell pepper. Carefully incorporate the egg yolk and sour cream mixture, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Season with salt, pepper, and, if desired, add Delikat. Let it boil for a few minutes, just until the soup starts to simmer.

7. Adding vinegar and parsley:
After the soup has simmered, turn off the heat and add vinegar to taste. This will add a note of acidity that perfectly balances the rich flavors. Finally, sprinkle the freshly chopped parsley on top and mix well.

Serving:
Rădăuțean soup is served hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or polenta. Another delicious option is to pair it with a glass of dry white wine, which will add an extra touch of refinement to your meal.

Practical tips:
- You can adapt the recipe using turkey or beef, depending on preferences.
- If you want a vegetarian version, you can replace the meat with mushrooms and add more vegetables, such as zucchini or cauliflower.
- Make sure the sour cream used is of good quality to achieve a creamy and rich texture.

Nutritional benefits:
Rădăuțean soup is an excellent source of protein from the meat, vitamins, and minerals from the vegetables. Carrots and celery provide fiber, contributing to healthy digestion. Additionally, garlic is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I make the soup with turkey?
Yes, turkey meat is an excellent alternative and will provide a different but equally delicious taste.

2. How can I make the soup spicier?
You can add hot peppers or spicy seasonings during boiling to achieve a spicier note.

3. Is the soup good for freezing?
The soup can be frozen, but it is recommended to add the sour cream only before serving to maintain the ideal texture.

In the end, this Rădăuțean soup is more than just a simple soup; it is a culinary experience that brings joy and comfort. Whether you enjoy it with family or prepare it for a special occasion, it is a dish that will surely leave an unforgettable impression. Enjoy your meal!