Smoked ham hock soup with ramsons and cabbage brine

Smoked ham hock soup with ramsons and cabbage brine

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

Smoked ham hock soup with ramsons and cabbage brine is a traditional recipe, full of flavor and taste, that brings a touch of warmth on chilly days. This recipe not only combines simple ingredients, but also the story of each component teaches us about the joys and traditions related to lavish meals, prepared with love. Let's discover together how we can bring this delicacy to our table!

Ingredients

- 1 smoked ham hock (about 1 kg) – the main source of flavor
- 2 carrots – for sweetness and color
- 1 celery root – adds a deep taste and pleasant texture
- 1 green bell pepper – for freshness
- 1 onion – the flavor base
- 3-4 potatoes – for consistency
- 3 bunches of ramsons – an aromatic green, rich in vitamins
- 1 liter of cabbage brine – a tangy ingredient with beneficial properties
- Salt and pepper – to taste
- 1 bay leaf – for an extra flavor

Preparation

1. Preparing the ham hock: Start by washing the smoked ham hock well under cold running water. This will remove excess salt and impurities. Then, place the ham hock in a pressure cooker and add a bay leaf and ground pepper. Fill with enough water to cover the meat. Simmer on low heat for 30 minutes, starting from the moment the cooker begins to whistle.

2. Preparing the vegetables: While the ham hock is boiling, peel and finely chop the vegetables: onion, carrots, celery, and bell pepper. These will give the soup a rich taste and pleasant texture.

3. Sautéing the vegetables: In a pan, add a little oil and sauté the chopped vegetables over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they become slightly golden. This essential step will intensify the flavors of the vegetables, adding a boost of taste to your soup.

4. Assembling the soup: Once the ham hock is cooked, remove it from the pot and separate the meat from the bone. Tear the meat into small pieces and return it to the broth. Add the sautéed vegetables and the diced potatoes. Boil everything together until the potatoes become soft, about 15-20 minutes.

5. Seasoning the soup: Finally, add the cabbage brine and let the soup boil for another 5 minutes. This ingredient will add a tangy note, perfect for balancing the rich taste of the ham hock. Add the finely chopped ramsons and let the soup boil for another 1-2 minutes.

6. Serving: The soup is served hot, with a sprinkle of fresh lovage added to the plate. This will bring an extra aroma and transform the soup into a true delicacy!

Chef's Tip

If you prefer less fatty soups, you can remove the layer of fat from the surface of the soup after it has cooled slightly. You can also adjust the amount of cabbage brine depending on how salty it is, to achieve a balanced taste.

Nutritional Benefits

This soup is not only delicious but also nourishing. The smoked ham hock provides quality protein, while the vegetables add fiber, essential vitamins, and minerals. Ramsons are known for their detoxifying properties, being rich in antioxidants. Cabbage brine is an excellent source of probiotics, supporting gut health.

Possible Variations

For a vegetarian version, you can replace the smoked ham hock with mushrooms or a mix of vegetables. You can also experiment with other greens, such as parsley or dill, to diversify the flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use fresh pork instead of smoked ham hock?
Yes, but you will need to add extra spices to achieve a similar taste.

- What other vegetables can I add to the soup?
You can add zucchini, parsnip, or even green beans to enrich the recipe.

- How can I store the soup?
The soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, and the taste improves as it cools. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Serving Recommendations

This soup pairs perfectly with a slice of fresh homemade bread or polenta. Additionally, a cold drink, such as fruit compote or even craft beer, will perfectly complement the flavor of the soup.

Let yourself be carried away by the flavors and traditions of this recipe and enjoy a meal full of warmth and taste! Enjoy your meal!