Soup from the Land of the Moți

Moldavian Soup: A Traditional Delicacy

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Moldavian soup is an old recipe, rich in tradition and stories, that takes us back to the hearty meals at our grandparents' homes. This soup, with its rich flavor of meat and vegetables, brings a feeling of comfort and warmth. Perfect for chilly days or family gatherings, this recipe is simple yet offers an explosion of flavors that will delight your senses. Let’s embark on the journey of preparing this delicious soup!

Ingredients:
- 300 g pork (preferably shoulder or leg)
- 150 g smoked bacon or ham
- 1 medium onion
- 3 garlic cloves
- A few leaves of cabbage (about 150 g) and kohlrabi (about 150 g)
- 2-3 tablespoons of lard or oil (for a more intense flavor, choose lard)
- 1 tablespoon of flour
- Chopped greens (parsley or dill, as preferred)
- 500 ml sour milk or borscht
- Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by cutting the pork and bacon into small cubes. These will add a savory flavor to the soup. Place them in a large pot with 3 liters of cold water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and skim periodically to remove impurities. This is an essential step to achieve a clean and tasty broth.

2. The vegetables: Meanwhile, wash the cabbage and kohlrabi leaves well. Cut them into thin strips. Chop the onion finely. These vegetables will add texture and freshness to the soup. In a frying pan, heat the lard or oil over medium heat and add the onion, allowing it to sauté lightly until translucent. Then, add the cabbage and kohlrabi, sautéing them for about 5-7 minutes until softened.

3. The white sauce: After the vegetables have sautéed, remove them from the pan and set aside. In the same pan, add a tablespoon of flour and a little water to form a white sauce. Stir well to avoid lumps. This sauce will thicken the soup and give it a creamy consistency.

4. Combining the ingredients: When the meat is almost cooked (about 40 minutes), add the sautéed vegetables to the pot with the meat. Season with salt and pepper. Now is the time to add the sour milk or borscht, depending on your preference. Let the soup simmer for a few minutes so that the flavors combine perfectly.

5. Finalizing: When the soup is ready, add the chopped greens and crushed garlic, stirring well. The garlic will provide an intense aroma and complement the rich flavor of the soup. Turn off the heat and let the soup rest for a few minutes before serving.

Serving suggestions: Moldavian soup is served hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or polenta. Offer a bottle of sour cream at the table for those who desire extra creaminess.

Useful tips:
- If you want to enhance the flavor, you can add a few peppercorns or a bay leaf during cooking.
- The soup can also be made with beef or chicken, depending on your preferences.
- For a more sour taste, use homemade borscht, and for a creamier version, opt for sour milk.

Nutritional benefits: Moldavian soup is an excellent source of protein due to the pork, while the vegetables provide important vitamins and minerals. Garlic is known for its antibacterial properties and immunity benefits, and cabbage is rich in fiber, being beneficial for digestion.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, frozen vegetables are a good option, but it is recommended to add them at the end of the cooking process to retain their texture.

- How long can the soup be stored? The soup can be kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, and its flavor improves the next day.

- Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! Carrots, celery, or bell peppers are excellent additions to this recipe.

Moldavian soup is not just a simple dish; each spoonful is a story about traditions, family, and moments spent together. Try this recipe and let the flavors take you back in time to the lavish meals of your childhood. Enjoy every moment!