Smoked meat soup

Smoked Meat Soup: A Delicacy That Enchants the Senses

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Number of Servings: 6

Smoked meat soup is a traditional dish, full of flavors and soul, that brings to mind Sunday family meals. This rustic recipe combines the intense flavor of smoked meat with the freshness of vegetables, resulting in a nourishing and tasty soup. With deep roots in our gastronomy, smoked meat soup is not just a dish, but a family story, transformed and enriched by each generation.

The Magical Ingredients

To prepare this delicious soup, you will need the following ingredients:

- 1 kg smoked meat (smoked ribs are ideal for an authentic taste)
- 2 medium onions
- 2 bell peppers (preferably one red and one green for an attractive appearance)
- 1 celery (about 200 g)
- 3-4 medium potatoes
- 1 bunch of fresh lovage
- 1 l borscht (or as needed for desired sourness)
- 1 bunch of fresh tarragon
- 2-3 carrots
- 3-4 tomatoes (if you don’t have fresh tomatoes, you can also use tomato paste)
- Salt and pepper to taste

Preparing the Soup Step by Step

1. Preparing the Smoked Meat: Start by cutting the smoked meat into suitable pieces. This will be the flavorful base of your soup, so choosing quality meat is essential. You can use ribs, but also other types of smoked meat, depending on your preferences.

2. Boiling the Smoked Meat: Place the smoked meat in a large pot and add water. Bring to a boil and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes. This step helps remove excess salt and fat. After boiling, discard the first water and rinse the meat under cold running water to eliminate impurities.

3. Cooking the Soup: Place the cleaned meat back in the pot and add fresh water, enough to cover the meat. Place the pot over medium heat and let it simmer. When the meat is almost cooked (about 30 minutes), it’s time to add the vegetables.

4. Adding the Vegetables: Chop the onion, bell pepper, celery, carrot, and potatoes into small pieces. Add them to the pot with the smoked meat. These vegetables not only add flavor but also provide a pleasant texture to your soup. Let them simmer together for 15-20 minutes.

5. Tomatoes: Grate or finely chop the tomatoes and add them to the pot. The tomatoes will give the soup a pleasant acidity and a vibrant color.

6. Sour the Soup: Gradually add the borscht, tasting constantly to adjust the acidity. Usually, one liter of borscht is enough, but you can add more or less, depending on your preferences.

7. Seasoning: Season with salt and pepper to taste. This step is crucial, as each type of smoked meat has a different saltiness. So, don’t rush! Cook the soup for another 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

8. Final Aromatization: Once the soup is ready, take it off the heat and add the finely chopped lovage and tarragon. These herbs bring a fresh aroma and a touch of elegance to your dish.

Serving and Variations

Smoked meat soup is served hot, often alongside a slice of fresh bread or polenta. A spoonful of sour cream on top will add a touch of creaminess and perfectly complement the flavor. You can also add hot peppers for an extra kick if you prefer things spicier.

Tips and Tricks

- Choosing the Smoked Meat: Smoked ribs are excellent, but you can also experiment with sausages or other types of smoked meat.
- Vegetables: Use seasonal vegetables to benefit from the best flavors. You can also add other vegetables, such as zucchini or green beans, to diversify the recipe.
- Homemade Borscht: If you have time, make your own borscht from natural yeast for an even more authentic taste.
- Substitutions: Instead of tarragon, you can use basil or dill, depending on your preferences.

Nutritional Benefits

Smoked meat soup is not only delicious but also nutritious. The smoked meat provides quality protein, while the vegetables bring essential vitamins and minerals. Additionally, souring with borscht adds a supply of probiotics, beneficial for digestive health.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh meat instead of smoked meat?
Yes, you can use fresh meat, but the soup won’t have the same intense flavor. You can add smoked spices to simulate the taste.

2. How can I store the soup?
The soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can freeze it, but it’s recommended to add fresh herbs after thawing.

3. Is it possible to make the soup vegetarian?
Of course! You can use vegetables and smoked mushrooms instead of meat for a delicious vegetarian version.

Smoked meat soup is not just a dish, but a warm and comforting experience, perfect for sharing with loved ones. So, gather your ingredients, bring your loved ones around the table, and enjoy this traditional delicacy that will bring smiles to everyone’s faces! Enjoy your meal!