Sour vegetable soup

Sour Vegetable Soup: A Warm Embrace in a Bowl

Sour vegetable soup is a traditional dish, full of flavor and health, that reminds us of childhood and our grandmother's abundant meals. This recipe is not only simple but also versatile, perfect for cool days or moments when we crave a light yet nourishing meal. Whether we enjoy it on its own or alongside a slice of fresh bread, sour vegetable soup is always an excellent choice.

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

Ingredients:
- 1 bag of frozen vegetables for soup (450 g) – a practical choice that saves us time while providing a varied palette of nutrients.
- 1.5 liters of water – essential for creating a rich and flavorful broth.
- Salt – to taste, to enhance the flavors of the vegetables.
- 50 ml tomato juice – for an extra touch of acidity and vibrant color.
- Cabbage juice – the secret ingredient that will transform this soup into a deliciously sour experience.

Preparation:
1. In a large pot, add 1.5 liters of water and place it over medium heat. It is important to use fresh water as it will form the base of our soup.
2. When the water starts to boil, add the bag of frozen vegetables. These vegetables are rich in vitamins and minerals, and freezing them preserves essential nutrients. Stir gently to ensure all the vegetables are covered with water.
3. Let the vegetables boil for 15-20 minutes until they become tender. This time may vary depending on the type of vegetables used.
4. After the vegetables are cooked, add the tomato juice. This will not only add a note of acidity but will also enrich the flavor of our soup.
5. Season with salt to taste. This is where we can experiment: if we want a more intense flavor, we can use sea salt or even a spice blend.
6. Finally, add the cabbage juice. This will give the soup that specific sourness that makes it so delicious. Depending on how sour we want the soup to be, we can adjust the amount of juice added.
7. Let the soup boil for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend perfectly.

Serving:
Sour vegetable soup is served hot, ideal for a lunch or dinner meal. It can be accompanied by a slice of fresh bread, which we can spread with a little butter or olive oil for added flavor. Another delicious option is to add a spoonful of sour cream on top before serving for a creamy and refreshing contrast.

Variations:
Sour vegetable soup is extremely versatile. We can add rice or pasta to make it heartier. Additionally, if we want a spicy note, we can incorporate a little chili or even spices like paprika.

Nutritional benefits:
This soup is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, with a low calorie content. It is perfect for detoxification and supporting the immune system, thanks to the fresh vegetables and tomato juice. Cabbage juice also adds digestive benefits, being an excellent source of probiotics.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen ones?
Of course! If you have fresh vegetables on hand, they will add fantastic flavor and texture. Make sure to chop them finely and cook them well.
- How can I make this soup heartier?
By adding rice or diced potatoes during cooking, the soup will become more filling.
- What other spices can I use to enrich the flavor?
You can try herbs like thyme, basil, or dill, which pair perfectly with the vegetables.

This sour vegetable soup recipe is not just a tasty dish but also an excellent way to consume vegetables in a pleasant manner. Moreover, it is perfect for fasting days or for those who want to adopt a healthy lifestyle. Enjoy every spoonful and savor its comforting flavors!