Rustic pork soup with peas and zucchini

Country-style pork soup with peas and zucchini

Country-style pork soup with peas and zucchini is a traditional recipe, full of flavors and aromas, that reminds us of the bountiful meals of the past, lovingly prepared by grandparents. This soup is not only nourishing but also comforting, perfect for cool days or for moments when we want to indulge in a warm and tasty dish.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes (in a pressure cooker)
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 1 kg pork shoulder (choose a shoulder with a bit of fat for a richer taste)
- 2 medium onions
- 2 large carrots
- 2 medium potatoes
- 2 ripe tomatoes (or 1 cup of tomato paste)
- 200 g green peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 green bell pepper
- 1 zucchini (about 200 g)
- 1 slice of celery
- 1 cup of broth (optional, depending on preferences)
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish

Recipe history
Soup has been and remains a fundamental pillar of traditional cuisine, often prepared with seasonal ingredients and a surprising variety depending on rural areas. This specific recipe has been passed down from generation to generation, with each family having its own secrets that make it unique. Country-style pork soup with peas and zucchini is a perfect example of how simple yet quality ingredients can create a delicious dish.

Step by step

1. Preparing the meat: Start by washing the pork shoulder well. Cut it into cubes of about 2 cm. This will help with even and quick cooking. Choose a shoulder with a bit of fat, as the fat will add extra flavor to the soup.

2. Preparing the vegetables: Peel the onions, carrots, potatoes, tomatoes, bell peppers, and zucchini. Chop the onion finely, and cut the carrot and potatoes into cubes, the bell peppers into strips, and the zucchini into rounds. Make sure all the vegetables are cut evenly so they cook at the same time.

3. Boiling the soup: In a large pot (or in a pressure cooker), add about 3-4 liters of water, add the salt, the meat cubes, and all the previously prepared vegetables. If using fresh tomatoes, peel and dice them before adding them to the pot.

4. Cooking: If using a pressure cooker, close the lid and boil for 30 minutes. If you don't have a pressure cooker, let the soup simmer over medium heat for about an hour, until the meat and vegetables are tender.

5. Adding the broth: At the end of the cooking time, add the broth (if using) and stir well. This step is important to give the soup a vibrant color and intense flavor.

6. Serving: The soup is served hot, sprinkled with chopped fresh parsley. You can also add some strips of bell pepper for an extra touch of color and texture.

Useful tips:
- You can add green cabbage for a more complex flavor, but if it's not to everyone's taste, you can skip it, as I did.
- If you want a spicier version, you can add a finely chopped hot pepper during cooking.
- Country-style soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of fresh homemade bread or polenta.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I substitute pork with another type of meat?
Yes, you can use chicken or beef, but the cooking time will vary. Chicken cooks faster, in about 20-25 minutes.

2. How can I make the soup more sour?
If you prefer a more sour soup, you can add lemon juice or vinegar to taste at the end.

3. Can I prepare the soup in advance?
Absolutely! The soup keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days and can be easily reheated. Also, the flavor will intensify over the days.

Delicious combinations:
Country-style pork soup with peas and zucchini pairs perfectly with a cabbage salad or a tomato salad with onion. Also, for a complete meal, you can serve warm polenta.

Nutrition and calories:
A serving of soup contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of meat and vegetables used. It is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, being rich in fiber due to the vegetables.

Variations:
- You can transform this soup into a vegetarian option by eliminating the meat and adding more vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or cauliflower.
- Another option would be to add quinoa or rice for extra consistency.

I hope my recipe for country-style pork soup with peas and zucchini will inspire you to try this delicacy at home. Not only will you create a delicious dish, but you will also feel the warmth and love of traditional recipes passed down through generations. Enjoy!