Smoked Pork Bone Soup

Smoked Pork Bone Soup: A Traditional Recipe Full of Flavor

Smoked pork bone soup is a dish that evokes pleasant memories, winter days, and moments spent with loved ones. This recipe is not just a simple meal but a true culinary treasure, rich in nutrients and flavors that will warm your soul and fill you with good cheer. The smoked bones bring a deep and complex taste, while the fresh vegetables complete this culinary picture. Moreover, the soup is easy to prepare, giving you the chance to enjoy a delicious result without needing advanced cooking skills.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total time: 2 hours
Number of servings: 6-8 servings

Ingredients needed:
- 5 pieces of smoked pork ribs (approximately 800 g)
- 1 medium onion
- 1 large carrot
- 1/4 celery (approximately 100 g)
- 1/2 parsnip (approximately 50 g)
- 1/2 cup of rice (approximately 100 g)
- 200 ml tomato juice (or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon of Delikat (optional, depending on how salty the bones are)
- 1 tablespoon of magic borscht (or to taste)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 1 bunch of fresh lovage
- Salt (optional, to taste)

Preparing the smoked pork bone soup:

Step 1: Preparing the bones
Start by thoroughly washing the smoked pork bones. It is important to rinse them in several waters to remove impurities and excess salt. This is an essential step to obtain a clear and tasty soup.

Step 2: Boiling the bones
Place the bones in a large pot and add enough water to completely cover them. Put the pot on medium heat and bring to a boil. It is important not to add salt, as the bones are already salty. Once the water starts to boil, use a skimmer to remove the foam that forms on the surface. This will help achieve a clear soup.

Step 3: Boiling the vegetables
After about 1 hour of boiling, I recommend straining the soup twice. This step may seem excessive, but it will ensure a soup with a perfect texture. Add the finely chopped vegetables: onion, carrot, celery, and parsnip. Let everything boil on medium heat until the vegetables become soft.

Step 4: Adding rice and tomato juice
Once the vegetables are almost cooked, add the rinsed rice and stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Cover the pot and let it boil for 5-7 minutes. Then, pour in the tomato juice and let it simmer for a few minutes until the rice becomes soft and the flavors combine.

Step 5: Seasoning the soup
Add the magic borscht and, if necessary, the Delikat (I recommend adding it cautiously, depending on how salty your bones are). Mix well and let it simmer for a few minutes for the flavors to meld.

Step 6: Finalizing the dish
Finally, finely chop the parsley and lovage and add them to the pot. Cover with a lid and let the soup sit for a few minutes to enrich the flavor. The dish is now ready to serve!

Serving:
Smoked pork bone soup is served hot, seasoned with sour cream and accompanied by hot peppers for an extra kick. Also, don't forget about homemade bread, which will make this meal a true celebration. You can also add croutons or toasted rolls for a crunchy texture.

Tips and suggestions:
- You can vary the vegetables based on your preferences. Adding bell peppers or potatoes can bring another level of flavor.
- If you like a more sour soup, you can add lemon juice or white wine vinegar to taste.
- This soup pairs perfectly with a fresh cabbage salad or pickles for a delicious contrast.

Nutritional information:
Smoked pork bone soup is rich in protein and minerals, thanks to the bones and vegetables. It is an excellent choice for a comforting meal, with a moderate calorie content depending on the servings and ingredients used. A serving of soup has approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the exact quantities of ingredients.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use bones of another type?
Yes, you can use beef or chicken bones, but the taste will be different. Smoked pork bones provide a unique flavor.
2. How long can the soup be stored?
The soup can be kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. It can be frozen, but it is recommended to consume it fresh to preserve its flavors.
3. Can I omit the rice?
Of course! You can make a bone soup without rice by adding more vegetables or even pasta if you prefer.

Smoked pork bone soup is not just a dish, but an experience. Each bite will transport you back in time, enveloping you in the warmth and comfort of a family meal. Try this recipe and enjoy the final result – a delicious soup that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones!