Sorrel soup

Sorrel soup is a traditional dish, full of flavor and color, that combines health with exquisite taste. This simple and quick recipe is ideal for warm spring or summer days when sorrel is in full bloom. The soup is not only delicious but also nourishing, packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Additionally, it is an excellent choice for those looking to adopt a healthy diet.

Preparation time:
- 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 30-40 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour
- Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 6 bunches of fresh sorrel
- 1 bunch of fresh lovage
- 2 medium yellow onions
- 4 medium carrots
- 1 large bell pepper
- 1 medium celery root
- 1/2 cup of rice
- 1 liter of borscht
- 3-4 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 1.5 liters of water
- Salt to taste
- 1-2 tablespoons of oil

Step-by-step instructions:

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing all the vegetables thoroughly. Peel the carrots, onion, bell pepper, and celery root. Chop them finely so they cook evenly in the soup. A practical method is to use a sharp knife to avoid slips.

Step 2: Preparing the soup base
In a large pot, add the water and bring it to a boil. Meanwhile, add a little salt and 1-2 tablespoons of oil for extra flavor. When the water starts to boil, add the chopped vegetables: onion, carrot, bell pepper, and celery root. Let them boil for about 10 minutes until they become slightly tender.

Step 3: Adding the rice and sorrel
After the vegetables have softened, it’s time to add the rice. Make sure to rinse it well beforehand to remove excess starch, which will help achieve a clearer soup. Also, add the borscht and finely chopped sorrel. Let the soup boil for another 10-15 minutes, until the rice is cooked and the sorrel releases its aroma.

Step 4: Finalizing and serving
A few minutes before turning off the heat, add the finely chopped lovage. This will give a fresh taste and unmistakable aroma. Make sure the rice is well cooked and the soup has a balanced taste, adjusting the salt to your liking.

Serving suggestions
Sorrel soup is served hot, delicious alongside a slice of fresh bread or polenta. You can add a spoonful of sour cream for extra creaminess or even a squeeze of lemon juice to enhance the flavors.

Nutritional benefits
Sorrel is known for its high content of vitamins A, C, K, and minerals like iron and calcium. It contributes to immune system health and helps maintain bone health. Additionally, the soup is low in calories, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain their weight.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use frozen sorrel?
Yes, frozen sorrel can be used, but make sure it is well drained before adding it to the soup.

2. What other vegetables can I add?
You can experiment with vegetables like zucchini, green beans, or potatoes, depending on your preferences.

3. How can I make the soup more sour?
If you want a more sour soup, you can add more borscht or even lemon juice.

Possible variations
For a heartier version, you can add diced chicken or pork, which will give a fuller consistency to the soup. Also, instead of rice, you can use quinoa or barley for a different texture.

Personal story
Sorrel soup reminds me of the days spent in my grandmother's garden, where sorrel grew strong and green. Each bowl of soup was a true ritual, and the aroma wafting through the house brought the whole family to the table. This recipe is not just a culinary dish, but a way to keep alive the tradition and love for healthy food.

In conclusion, sorrel soup is easy to make, healthy, and full of vitamins, perfect for any spring or summer meal. Try this simple recipe and offer yourself and your loved ones a touch of health and joy on your plate! Enjoy your meal!