Smoked Potato Soup a la Dia

Smoked Meat Potato Soup – The Perfect Recipe for a Chilly Day

Smoked meat potato soup is a classic dish beloved by many generations. This recipe offers an explosion of flavors, making it perfect for those days when we want to warm our souls with a comforting bowl. Imagine the enticing aroma of smoked meat and fresh vegetables combining into a rich, nourishing, and extremely satisfying soup.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total: 1 hour
Servings: 4-6

Necessary ingredients:

- 300 g smoked meat (meat from the ribs of smoked ham or other preferred meat)
- 5-6 medium potatoes
- 3 carrots
- 1 onion (ideally fresh)
- 1 bunch of green onions
- 4 tablespoons oil (preferably sunflower oil or olive oil)
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 100 ml milk (for a special creaminess)
- Fresh dill and parsley (for an extra flavor)
- Pepper and salt, to taste

Step by Step:

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by peeling and chopping the onion and green onions. The green onions will add a note of freshness, while the regular onion will give a deep flavor to the soup. Peel the carrots and slice them into rounds, and you can cut the potatoes into cubes of about 2 cm, so they cook evenly.

Step 2: Sautéing the vegetables
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent, then add the carrots and continue to sauté for another 2-3 minutes. This process will release the flavors of the vegetables, preparing the perfect base for the soup.

Step 3: Adding the smoked meat and water
Put the smoked meat cut into cubes or strips into the pot and add water (about 1.5 liters). Let it boil for 15-20 minutes. This will allow the meat to release its flavors, enriching the soup.

Step 4: Cooking the potatoes
After the meat has boiled, add the potato cubes to the pot. Continue to boil the soup for another 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are soft but not falling apart.

Step 5: Preparing the roux
In a separate pan, sauté 1 tablespoon of flour in 2 tablespoons of oil, adding the sweet paprika. Stir constantly to avoid lumps. Gradually add 200 ml of water, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens. This roux will give the soup a creamy consistency and a rich flavor.

Step 6: Finalizing the soup
Add the roux to the pot, stirring well to incorporate it. Let it boil for 2-3 minutes, then add the milk, chopped dill, and parsley. Turn off the heat and taste the soup, adjusting the salt and pepper to your liking.

Step 7: Serving the soup
The soup is served hot, with a spoonful of sour cream on top and a little finely chopped red onion, which will add a pleasant contrast of flavors.

Practical tips:

- Choosing the meat: You can use any type of smoked meat, but be sure to choose one that matches your preferred flavors. Pork is the most common, but smoked chicken or even sausage can work wonderfully.
- Vegetable variations: You can also add other vegetables such as celery or bell peppers for added nutrients and flavor.
- Soup texture: If you prefer a less dense soup, you can reduce the amount of flour or completely omit the roux.

Nutritional benefits:
Smoked meat potato soup is a good source of carbohydrates, vitamins, and proteins. Potatoes are rich in potassium, while carrots provide a healthy dose of beta-carotene. Combined with the smoked meat, this soup becomes a nourishing and satisfying dish, ideal for a family meal.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I replace the smoked meat with fresh meat?
Yes, but you should add extra spices to compensate for the lack of intense smoked flavors.

2. How long can the soup be stored?
The soup can be kept in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, and in the freezer, it can last up to 3 months. Make sure to store it in airtight containers.

3. What can I do if the soup is too salty?
Add a whole potato (without cutting it) to the soup and let it boil for 10-15 minutes. It will absorb some of the salt.

4. What pairs well with the soup?
Fresh, homemade bread or flavored croutons are excellent accompaniments to smoked meat potato soup. Additionally, a fresh green salad can add a refreshing contrast.

Personal suggestion:
For an extra flavor boost, you can add a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice before serving. This will balance the rich taste of the soup and bring a note of freshness.

In conclusion, smoked meat potato soup is not only a delicious recipe but also an excellent way to gather the family around the table. With each spoonful, you will feel the warmth of home and the joy of sharing beautiful moments. Enjoy!