Smoked Bacon Soup (Norwegian Soup)

Smoked Bacon Soup: A Comforting Delight

Smoked bacon soup is a traditional recipe that evokes family meals, frosty winters, and the warmth of home. This soup is perfect for cool days, where the combined flavors of the ingredients provide comfort and satisfaction. The origins of this soup are deeply rooted in culinary culture, being a dish that has evolved over time, with each housewife adding her personal touch.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 130 g smoked bacon
- 1 medium onion
- 2 medium carrots
- 1 small celery
- 4 medium potatoes
- 1/2 red bell pepper
- 130 g sour cream
- 1 egg (only the yolk)
- A handful of fresh chopped parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 large clove of garlic
- 3-4 tablespoons oil
- Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. Start by preparing all the ingredients. Wash and peel the vegetables: onion, carrots, celery, bell pepper, and potatoes. Cut the bacon into small cubes, the onion into rings, the carrots and celery into cubes, and the potatoes as preferred (I prefer cubes for a uniform texture).

2. In a large pot, add 2.5 liters of water and put it on medium heat to warm up.

3. Meanwhile, in another pot, heat 3-4 tablespoons of oil. Add the smoked bacon and lightly brown it until it becomes golden and crispy. This will give the soup a deep and savory flavor. Remove the bacon from the pot and set it aside.

4. In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, celery, and chopped bell pepper. Sauté the vegetables over medium heat, stirring constantly, until they become slightly translucent, about 5-7 minutes. This step is essential for developing flavors.

5. Once the vegetables are sautéed, add the 2.5 liters of hot water. Bring to a boil.

6. When the water starts to boil, add the chopped potatoes. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer for about 20-30 minutes or until the potatoes become tender.

7. After the vegetables are cooked, season the soup with salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Add the crushed garlic clove and the fried bacon. Stir well to combine the flavors.

8. In a small bowl, mix the sour cream with the egg yolk. Gradually add a few tablespoons of the soup to the sour cream mixture to temper it, then pour it back into the pot. This step will make the soup creamier and richer.

9. Let the soup cook for 1-2 minutes, then turn off the heat. Add the fresh chopped parsley for an extra touch of freshness and flavor.

10. Wait a few minutes for it to cool slightly before serving. The soup will taste even better the next day when the flavors have had time to meld.

Practical tips:
- You can experiment with different types of smoked meats: pork belly, sausages, or even smoked ham, each bringing a distinct flavor to your soup.
- If you want a vegetarian version, you can omit the bacon and use olive oil or butter to sauté the vegetables, plus vegetable broth to enhance the flavor.

Nutritional benefits:
This soup is rich in vitamins and minerals due to the fresh vegetables used. The smoked bacon provides protein and a savory taste, while the sour cream adds a note of creaminess. The soup is ideal for revitalizing your body on cold days and will give you the energy you need.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other vegetables? Yes, you can add zucchini, peas, or even green beans, depending on your preferences.
- How can I improve the texture? If you prefer a smoother soup, you can mash some of the vegetables at the end to achieve a creamier consistency.
- What other dishes does this soup pair well with? You can serve it alongside a slice of homemade bread or warm polenta for a complete meal.

Serving suggestion:
For a more attractive presentation, garnish the plates with a few fresh parsley leaves and a spoonful of sour cream on top. A glass of dry white wine or a craft beer would perfectly complement the meal.

In the end, the smoked bacon soup is not just a simple dish, but an invitation to stories and unforgettable moments with loved ones. So put on your apron, prepare the ingredients, and enjoy this warm, flavorful soup!