Red chard soup

Red orache soup - A vitality-filled delicacy

Red orache soup is more than just a simple recipe; it is a true feast of flavors and colors, blending tradition with health. This soup is perfect both hot and cold, and pairs wonderfully with a spoonful of sour cream or yogurt, offering a delicious contrast of textures. It is ideal as a fasting meal, making it a wonderful choice for those who wish to enjoy delights without consuming animal products.

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

Your basic ingredients
- 5 bunches of orache
- 2 carrots
- 1 parsnip
- a few slices of celery
- 2 bunches of green onions
- 50 g rice
- 4 tablespoons oil
- 300 ml borscht
- 300 g tomatoes in juice
- 2 eggs
- fresh lovage
- optional: sour cream or yogurt for serving

First steps to a delicious soup
1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by finely chopping the carrots, parsnip, and celery. I recommend using a sharp knife to achieve even cuts. Cut the green onions into thin rings, adding a touch of freshness to your soup.

2. Heating the oil: Place the oil in a large pot to heat. Sunflower oil or extra virgin olive oil are excellent choices, each with its own nutritional benefits.

3. Sauté the vegetables: Once the oil is hot, add the chopped vegetables. Let them soften over medium heat, stirring occasionally. This is the ideal time to add a pinch of salt, which will help draw out the juices from the vegetables.

4. Add the water: After the vegetables are soft enough, carefully pour 2 liters of hot water into the pot. Make sure to use quality water, as it will influence the final taste of the soup.

5. The rice: Rinse the rice well under cold running water to remove excess starch. Add the rice to the pot and let everything simmer over medium heat for about 15 minutes.

Preparing the orache and the remaining ingredients
6. Preparing the orache: While the rice is cooking, cut the stems of the orache and wash the leaves well. It is essential to remove any impurities. After washing, let the orache drain and chop it finely. Orache is an excellent source of vitamins, so you don't want to lose any of its benefits.

7. Adding the ingredients: Once the rice is cooked, add the orache to the pot, along with the borscht and finely chopped tomatoes. The tomatoes in juice will add a rich flavor and a vibrant hue to the soup. Let everything simmer for another 5-10 minutes until the orache softens but remains slightly crunchy.

8. The eggs: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs well. When the soup is ready, pour the beaten eggs into the pot, stirring constantly with a fork to create fine strands of egg. This technique will add an interesting texture to the soup.

Finalizing and serving the soup
9. Add the lovage: Finally, sprinkle the finely chopped fresh lovage for an extra burst of flavor. Lovage is an aromatic herb that perfectly complements the delicate taste of the orache.

10. Serving: Serve the red orache soup hot or cold, with a spoonful of sour cream or yogurt, if desired. This detail will provide a creamy contrast that will make the soup even more delicious.

The story behind the recipe
Red orache soup has been prepared for generations, associated with spring when fresh vegetables begin to appear on households' tables. It is a recipe that symbolizes abundance and prosperity, often served on special occasions or festive meals. This soup not only combines simple ingredients but also cherished memories, with each spoonful telling its own story.

Useful tips and frequently asked questions
- What else can I add to the soup? You can experiment by adding potatoes or other seasonal vegetables to add more volume and nutrients.
- How long does the soup keep? Red orache soup keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can even freeze it to enjoy later.
- Is the soup vegan? Yes, if you omit the eggs and sour cream, the soup becomes completely vegan.

Nutritional benefits
Red orache soup is not only delicious but also healthy. Orache is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, contributing to a strong immune system. Carrots and parsnips add dietary fiber, aiding digestion. Additionally, the rice provides complex carbohydrates, ensuring you have the energy you need throughout the day.

Possible variations
- For a more intense flavor: Add a few bay leaves during cooking or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a touch of spice.
- Meat orache soup: If you prefer a heartier version, you can add cubes of chicken or pork, cooking the meat before adding the vegetables.

Cooking is an art that unites us, and red orache soup is an excellent way to share the love of food with loved ones. Don't forget to enjoy every step of the cooking process and savor the final result!