Sour lamb's quarters soup with red sour cherries

Sour lamb's quarters soup with red sour cherries is a delicacy that combines culinary traditions with fresh and healthy ingredients, providing loved ones with a comforting and flavorful meal. This simple yet aromatic recipe is perfect for hot summer days when sour cherries are in season and lamb's quarters are at their peak freshness. Begin your culinary journey and discover how to prepare this delicious soup step by step.

Total time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients
- 300 g fresh lamb's quarters
- 7-8 green onions
- 1 medium carrot
- 200 g red sour cherries
- 100 ml canned tomatoes with peppers
- 30 g rice
- 30 ml oil
- 2 teaspoons vegetable Delikat (or salt, to taste)
- 2 l water
- 2-3 sprigs of fresh lovage

History and Nutritional Benefits
Sour lamb's quarters soup is one of those dishes that reflects the rich and diverse culinary tradition. Lamb's quarters are a leafy herb rich in vitamins A, C, and K, while sour cherries add a tangy note full of antioxidants. Combining these ingredients not only offers a delicious taste but also contributes to excellent nutritional intake, being a source of fiber, vitamins, and essential minerals.

Preparing Sour Lamb's Quarters Soup with Red Sour Cherries

1. Preparing the Sour Cherries
Start by placing the red sour cherries in cold water in a large pot. Boil them over medium heat for about 15-20 minutes until they become soft. After boiling, remove them from the water and puree them in a blender or with an immersion blender, adding a little of the cooking water. Strain the resulting paste to remove the seeds.

2. Preparing the Lamb's Quarters
Wash the lamb's quarters well under cold running water, making sure to remove any impurities. Cut the leaves into smaller strips for even cooking. This plant is a versatile ingredient, and using it in soup gives it an unmistakable flavor.

3. Sautéing the Onion and Carrot
In a large pot, add the oil and sauté the finely chopped green onions together with the grated carrot for 5-6 minutes. This step is essential for developing the base flavors of the soup. You can also add a pinch of salt to help the onions soften faster.

4. Adding the Rice and Water
Once the onions and carrots are golden, add the rice and mix well. The next step is to pour in the water (2 liters) and bring everything to a boil. The rice will add consistency and turn the soup into a hearty dish.

5. Adding the Lamb's Quarters and Remaining Ingredients
After the water has started to boil, add the chopped lamb's quarters. Let it boil together with the other ingredients until the leaves become tender, about 5-7 minutes. Now add the canned tomatoes with peppers and the sour cherry puree. Allow the soup to boil for another 2-3 minutes for the flavors to blend perfectly.

6. Finalizing and Serving
Before turning off the heat, add the finely chopped lovage, which will provide a fresh taste and an unmistakable aroma. Taste the soup and adjust the salt or spices if necessary.

Serving
Sour lamb's quarters soup with red sour cherries is served hot, accompanied by a slice of fresh bread or polenta. A teaspoon of sour cream can add a creamy and delicious touch. You can also drizzle the soup with a little lemon juice for an extra acidity.

Variations and Suggestions
- Variation with Other Vegetables: You can add potatoes or zucchini to make the soup heartier.
- Meat Soup: If you prefer a heartier version, you can add cubes of chicken or pork, which you can sauté together with the onions at the beginning.
- Vegan Soup: Additionally, this recipe can be easily adapted by omitting the rice and adding tofu or other vegetables.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can frozen lamb's quarters be used?
Yes, frozen lamb's quarters can be used, but it is recommended to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the soup.

2. How long does the soup last in the fridge?
Sour lamb's quarters soup lasts in the fridge for 2-3 days in an airtight container.

3. Can it be frozen?
It is better not to freeze the soup with rice, as the texture may be affected. Instead, you can freeze only the soup base without the rice.

Conclusion
Sour lamb's quarters soup with red sour cherries is more than just a simple recipe; it is a culinary experience that reminds you of the flavors of childhood and family meals. Try this recipe and let yourself be carried away by its fresh and comforting flavors. Every sip will be a celebration of taste!