Sorrel soup (vegan)

Stevia Soup for Lent

Stevia soup is a traditional recipe that combines the fresh taste of vegetables with the nutritional benefits of stevia, a plant rich in vitamins and minerals. Perfect for the Lent period, this soup is not only delicious but also nourishing, with low calorie content and extreme versatility. Additionally, it is an excellent way to introduce more vegetables into your daily diet.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 3-4 handfuls of fresh stevia leaves (without stems)
- 2 medium onions
- 1 carrot
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 liter of boiling water (for blanching the stevia)
- 2 liters of water (for the soup)
- 2-3 tablespoons of oil (for sautéing the vegetables)
- A handful of rice (about 100g)
- 2 tablespoons of granulated borscht (or more, if fresh)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons of pepper paste (or tomato paste)
- A handful of fresh parsley
- A handful of fresh lovage

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the stevia: Start by boiling 1 liter of water in a large pot. Meanwhile, wash the stevia leaves under a cold water stream, ensuring you remove any impurities. Cut off the large stems at the base, leaving only the leaves, then add them to the boiling water for 1-2 minutes. This step will help preserve the vibrant color and nutrients in the leaves. Once softened, remove them with a slotted spoon and let them drain in a sieve.

2. Preparing the vegetables: In a separate pot, add 2-3 tablespoons of oil and heat it over medium heat. Chop the onion, carrot, and bell pepper into small cubes and add them to the hot oil. Sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become translucent and release their aroma.

3. Adding water: Once the vegetables are sautéed, add 2 liters of warm water to the pot. Let the soup boil for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.

4. Including the rice and stevia: Rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch, then add it to the pot along with the chopped stevia leaves (depending on your preference, you can leave the leaves larger or chop them finely). Season with salt and pepper to taste and let it boil for 10-15 minutes, until the rice is cooked and the stevia leaves have softened.

5. Finalizing the soup: Once the rice is ready, add the pepper paste or tomato paste, stirring well. Let it boil for another 5 minutes, then add the granulated borscht. This ingredient adds a pleasant acidity to the soup, but if you prefer, you can omit it or replace it with lemon juice. Turn off the heat and add the chopped parsley and lovage for an extra touch of freshness.

6. Serving: Stevia soup is served hot, and for those who are not fasting, a delicious option is to add a few tablespoons of sour cream and sliced omelet. These additional ingredients provide a creamy texture and a pleasant contrast to the sour soup.

Practical tips:
- You can also add other vegetables, such as celery or zucchini, to diversify the soup's flavor.
- If you want a spicier version, try adding a little chili or paprika during the sautéing of the vegetables.
- Make sure the stevia is fresh, as dried leaves will not have the same flavor and texture.

Nutritional benefits:
Stevia soup is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron and calcium. It is low in calories, making it an ideal choice for those who want to maintain a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I replace the rice with another ingredient? Yes, you can use quinoa or whole grain pasta if you prefer a different version.
- What other recipes pair well with this soup? Stevia soup can be excellently combined with a cabbage salad or warm polenta for a complete and satisfying lunch.

A personal note: This soup reminds me of my childhood when my mother would prepare it in spring days when the vegetables were fresh and full of flavor. By sharing this recipe with loved ones, I feel like I bring a touch of that nostalgia and warmth into every bowl of soup.

In conclusion, stevia soup for Lent is not only a delicious choice but also healthy, easy to prepare, and versatile. I invite you to try it and add your own personal touch, as cooking is an art that improves with every experience. Bon appétit!