Sorrel cream soup

Sorrel Cream Soup - A Springtime Delicacy

Spring brings not only flowers and sunshine but also an explosion of fresh aromas, and sorrel cream soup is undoubtedly a perfect example of this vibrant season. This recipe is not only simple but also healthy, with a tangy flavor that reminds us of blooming nature. Let’s embark together on the preparation of this delicious soup, which is sure to delight the taste buds of family and friends.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

- 500 g of potatoes (choose starchy potatoes for a creamy texture)
- 300 g of fresh sorrel (make sure it is tender and green)
- 1 medium onion (white or yellow onion provides a pleasant sweetness)
- 50 g of butter (for a rich taste, but can be replaced with olive oil for a vegan option)
- 1.5 liters of water
- 1 chicken stock cube (or vegetable, depending on preferences)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chili pepper (optional, for those who love a bit of heat)
- Fresh tarragon (or alternatively, parsley or dill, according to preferences)

Preparation: Step by Step

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the sorrel well under cold running water. Tear off the stems and keep only the leaves. Peel the potatoes and onion. Chop the onion finely and slice the potatoes into thin pieces for even cooking.

2. Sautéing the onion: In a large pot, add the butter and let it melt over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes translucent and releases its aroma.

3. Adding the sorrel: Now it’s time to add the sorrel to the pot. Sauté it together with the onion until the leaves change color and become tender. Here you will feel the fresh aroma of sorrel filling the kitchen.

4. Including the potatoes: Add the sliced potatoes to the pot and gently sauté them together with the sorrel and onion mixture. A delicious combination of flavors will be created that will enrich the soup.

5. Boiling the ingredients: Add the water and the stock cube. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are soft.

6. Blending the soup: Once the potatoes are ready, remove the pot from the heat and use a blender to turn the soup into a smooth cream. If you don’t have an immersion blender, transfer the mixture in portions to a regular blender, being careful not to burn yourself.

7. Finalizing the soup: Put the soup back on the heat, add cream or milk if you want a creamier texture. Add the chopped fresh tarragon (or chosen herbs) and season with salt, pepper, and if desired, a pinch of chili pepper for an extra kick.

8. Serving: Sorrel cream soup is served warm, ideally alongside toasted bread slices, crunchy croutons, or a sprinkle of grated cheese on top. A garnish of fresh tarragon leaves on top will add an attractive appearance.

Practical Tips

- Fresh ingredients: Make sure to use fresh sorrel, as its tangy taste is what makes this soup special. Check the leaves to avoid dried or yellowed ones.
- Variations: If you want a richer soup, you can add a sweet potato or carrots for a touch of sweetness. You can also use soy or almond milk for a vegan option.
- A vegan option: Replace the butter with olive oil and omit the cream, using only water or vegetable broth to make the soup completely vegan.

Nutritional Benefits

Sorrel cream soup is rich in vitamins and minerals, being an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and antioxidants. Sorrel is known for its beneficial effects on digestion and the immune system. Additionally, potatoes provide healthy carbohydrates that offer energy.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other vegetables instead of sorrel?
Yes, you can experiment with other greens like spinach or kale, but the taste of the soup will be different.

2. How can I store the soup?
The soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can freeze it, but it is recommended to do so without cream, as it may separate upon thawing.

3. What can I pair the soup with?
It pairs perfectly with a fresh salad or a savory tart. A refreshing drink, such as herbal tea, would ideally complement the meal.

Personal Note

This sorrel cream soup reminds me of the springs of my childhood when I would go to the garden to pick fresh sorrel to use in traditional recipes. It is a simple recipe but full of memories and flavors that connect us to the blooming nature around us. Try this soup and let yourself be carried away by its fresh aromas!