Salad soup

Salad Soup: A Green Delight with Smoky Undertones

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6

In a world full of sophisticated recipes, salad soup stands out for its simplicity and refinement. This traditional recipe, passed down through generations, combines the fresh taste of salad with the rich aroma of smoked bacon. It's an excellent choice for hot summer days, but can be enjoyed any time of the year. Let's discover together how to prepare it step by step!

Ingredients

- 1 kg salad leaves (preferably green lettuce or romaine)
- 100 g smoked bacon, diced
- 250 g yogurt or sour milk
- 200 g sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 fresh eggs
- Lemon juice, to taste
- 1 bunch of fresh dill, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 small cup of rice (about 100 g)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Water (3-4 liters)

Necessary utensils

- Large pot for soup
- Frying pan
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spatula
- Grater (for garlic)
- Knife and cutting board
- Ladle

Preparation

1. Preparing the salad
Start by washing the salad leaves under cold running water, ensuring you remove any impurities. Once washed, let them drain well. Cut them into strips about 1 cm wide. This step will not only help achieve an even texture but will also make the soup more visually appealing.

2. Frying the bacon
In a large pot, add the diced smoked bacon and fry it over medium heat. Wait until it becomes golden and crispy, releasing its delicious aromas into the pot. This step is essential for adding depth of flavor to the soup.

3. Adding the salad
Once the bacon is fried, add the salad leaves to the pot. Sauté them for a few minutes, stirring constantly. This step will help meld the flavors and make the salad an even tastier ingredient.

4. Boiling the soup
Add 3-4 liters of water, salt, and the chopped dill. Let the soup boil for about 15 minutes, allowing the salad to release its flavors. You will notice how the colors become more vibrant, and the aroma becomes unforgettable.

5. Preparing the creamy mixture
In a larger bowl, mix the two egg yolks, flour, minced garlic, yogurt or sour milk, and 2-3 ladles of the hot soup. This mixture will add a creamy texture to your soup. Mixing the ingredients at room temperature will prevent the eggs from curdling.

6. Adding the mixture to the pot
Pour the creamy mixture into the pot with the soup, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. This step is incredibly important for a smooth and homogeneous soup, full of flavors.

7. Adding the rice
Add the washed rice and let the soup boil for a few minutes until the rice becomes soft. The rice adds not only consistency but also a nutritious element that will nourish your family.

8. Adding the eggs
When the soup is almost ready, crack each egg and let it drop into the pot, starting with the egg white, followed by the yolk. This step will add richness and give the soup an attractive appearance.

9. Finalizing
Season the soup with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste. Let it boil for another 10 minutes, during which the flavors will blend perfectly.

Serving

Salad soup is served warm, ideally accompanied by a bowl of sour cream and, for those who appreciate a touch of tradition, with balmoș or balmus, a fine polenta made from whey and sheep's milk. This will perfectly complement the taste of the soup and add a rustic touch to your meal.

Practical tips

- Choosing the salad: Opt for fresh and crispy salad, preferably from the garden. A high-quality salad will make a difference in the final taste of the soup.
- Bacon: You can replace the smoked bacon with regular bacon or even a vegetarian option using smoked tofu.
- Vegan version: Replace the eggs with a mixture of mashed tofu and turmeric to achieve a similar yellow color.
- Flavoring: Add a pinch of sweet paprika or garlic powder to intensify the flavors.
- Accessories: A slice of toasted bread with garlic butter alongside the soup will turn the meal into a feast.

Nutritional benefits

Salad soup is an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy a healthy and nourishing meal. The salad is rich in vitamins and minerals, while the smoked bacon adds protein and healthy fats. The egg is an excellent source of high-quality protein, and the yogurt contributes probiotics that are beneficial for digestive health.

Frequently asked questions

1. How long does the soup last?
Salad soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container.

2. Can I freeze the soup?
While it is possible to freeze it, the texture of the eggs and salad may change. It is recommended to consume the soup freshly prepared for the best taste.

3. What other side dishes can I use?
Besides balmoș, you can serve the soup with toasted bread croutons, grated cheese, or even a fresh vegetable salad for a pleasant contrast.

Salad soup is more than just a recipe; it's an invitation to the family table, a chance to enjoy natural flavors and share beautiful moments with loved ones. Try making it and savor every spoonful!