Smoked Potato Soup

Potato Soup with Smoked Meat - A Comforting Delicacy

If you've ever thought of a dish that wraps the soul in flavors and brings back cherished memories, potato soup with smoked meat is the perfect choice. This classic, highly appreciated recipe has deep roots in culinary traditions, considered a symbol of comfort and family joy. Here’s how you can prepare it step by step to achieve a delicious soup that will impress everyone.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients:
- 740 g smoked pork belly (or other preferred smoked meat)
- 600 g potatoes
- 2 red onions
- 1 carrot
- 1 parsnip
- 2 red peppers
- 2 eggs
- Vinegar (to taste)
- Salt (to taste)
- 4 l water
- Fresh dill (for serving)
- Oil (for sautéing vegetables)

Necessary tools:
- Large pot for boiling
- Pan for sautéing vegetables
- Skimmer
- Ladle
- Bowl for beating eggs
- Knife and cutting board

Step 1: Preparing the Smoked Meat
Start by boiling the smoked meat in a large pot with 4 liters of water. Bring the water to a boil and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. Don’t forget to skim off the foam that forms on the surface with a skimmer to achieve a clearer and tastier broth.

Step 2: Preparing the Vegetables
While the smoked meat is boiling, clean the vegetables. Chop the onion finely, dice the carrot and parsnip, and slice the red pepper. These vegetables not only add wonderful flavor but also color and texture to your soup.

Step 3: Sautéing the Vegetables
In a pan, add a little oil and sauté the onion for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the carrot, parsnip, and pepper, and continue sautéing for another 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently. This step will enhance the flavors of the vegetables, preparing them for the soup.

Step 4: Combining the Ingredients
Once the meat has boiled well, remove the smoked meat from the pot and let it cool slightly. Cut it into small cubes, then add the sautéed vegetables and diced potatoes to the pot with the broth. Let everything simmer together for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Step 5: Seasoning and Finalizing the Soup
After the vegetables have boiled, taste the soup and add salt if needed. Now it’s time to prepare the egg mixture. In a bowl, beat the two eggs with a little vinegar (use pepper vinegar for a spicy taste, but you can also use regular vinegar). Using a ladle, take a few spoons of the hot soup broth and gradually add it to the egg mixture while stirring continuously. This technique will prevent the eggs from curdling. Then, pour the mixture into the pot with the soup, stirring well.

Step 6: Serving the Soup
The soup is ready to be served! Add freshly chopped dill on top for a touch of freshness. Serve the soup hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread. If you want a touch of originality, try adding some slices of fresh or pickled chili pepper to the plate.

Useful tips:
- Replace the pork belly with poultry smoked meat or sausage for a lighter version.
- If you want a more sour soup, you can add more vinegar or even lemon juice.
- Potato soup keeps very well in the fridge for 2-3 days and becomes even tastier the next day when the flavors have had time to meld.

Nutritional Benefits:
Potato soup with smoked meat is an excellent source of carbohydrates from potatoes, vitamins and minerals from vegetables, and protein from meat. It is a hearty meal that gives you energy and helps you feel full and satisfied.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, you can use frozen vegetables, but make sure to add them in the last part of cooking to avoid ruining their texture.
- How can I make the soup spicier? Add fresh chili peppers or chili flakes during cooking to intensify the flavor.
- Can the soup be frozen? Yes, it can be frozen, but it is recommended not to add the eggs before freezing. You can add the eggs after thawing the soup.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to get cooking. Potato soup with smoked meat is more than just a dish; it’s a culinary experience that will fill your home with aromas and the hearts of your loved ones with joy. Enjoy your meal!