Sour cabbage soup with smoked meat

Sour cabbage soup with smoked meat: a delicious recipe for winter days

Sour cabbage soup with smoked meat is a traditional Romanian recipe that has been cherished for generations and brings together unique flavors and simple yet flavorful ingredients. This soup not only adds warmth on chilly days but also offers an unmistakable aroma, thanks to the combination of sauerkraut and smoked meat. Whether you serve it at a family meal or prepare it for friends, this soup will surely be a hit!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Necessary ingredients:
- 500 g sour cabbage
- 1 liter cabbage juice
- 350 g smoked pork (bones, sausages)
- 1-2 tablespoons pepper paste
- 100 ml sour cream
- 1-2 tablespoons oil
- a bunch of fresh dill (about 30 g)
- salt, to taste
- thyme, to taste
- hot pepper (optional, for extra spiciness)

Step-by-step preparation of the soup:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by cutting the sour cabbage into thin strips. If you prefer a less sour soup, you can rinse the cabbage under cold running water to reduce its acidity. Also, prepare the smoked meat by cutting it into larger pieces to release its aroma during boiling.

2. Boiling the smoked meat: In a large pot, add 4-4.5 liters of water and bring the smoked meat to a boil. Let it boil for about 30 minutes over medium heat. This step is essential as it will infuse the soup with the delicious aroma of the smoked meat.

3. Adding the main ingredients: After the smoked meat has boiled, add the cabbage juice and the cut sour cabbage. Stir well to combine the ingredients. Let the soup simmer on low heat, covered, for 30 minutes. This time will allow the flavors to blend perfectly.

4. Seasoning the soup: About 10 minutes before turning off the heat, add the pepper paste, thyme, and adjust the salt to taste. The pepper paste adds a sweet-sour flavor that will perfectly complement the aroma of the smoked meat.

5. Finalizing the dish: Before serving, add the cabbage juice, which will enhance the sour taste of the soup. Let it boil for another 5-10 minutes, then turn off the heat.

Serving the soup:
Sour cabbage soup with smoked meat is served hot, adding a spoonful of sour cream on top and sprinkling finely chopped fresh dill. If you enjoy spicy flavors, don't forget to add a few slices of hot pepper!

Useful tips:
- For an even richer taste, you can also add some diced potatoes during the soup boiling.
- If you want a vegetarian version, you can replace the smoked meat with mushrooms or smoked vegetables, which will provide a similar aroma.
- This soup can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days, and the flavor will intensify as it sits.

Nutritional benefits:
Sour cabbage soup is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, thanks to the sauerkraut. The smoked pork adds healthy proteins and fats, but it's best to consume it in moderation. Each serving contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of smoked meat and sour cream used.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use fresh cabbage instead of sour cabbage?
Yes, but the aroma and taste of the soup will not be as intense. Additionally, sour cabbage adds an extra acidity that balances the flavor of the dish.

2. What other dishes can I pair with this soup?
Sour cabbage soup pairs perfectly with warm polenta or homemade bread. You can also accompany it with a dry red wine or herbal tea.

3. What is the secret to a successful sour cabbage soup?
The secret lies in the quality of the ingredients! Use homemade sour cabbage if possible, and good quality smoked meat to achieve an authentic taste.

This sour cabbage soup with smoked meat is more than just a dish; it is a true connection to culinary traditions and a way to bring the family together. Don't hesitate to try it and personalize it to your taste! Enjoy your meal!