Spinach Soup with Sorrel and Smoked Bacon

To prepare a delicious spinach soup with sorrel, the first essential step is to ensure that the ingredients are fresh and of high quality. Start by carefully washing the spinach and sorrel, using several waters to remove any impurities or sand. This step is crucial, as a clean soup will taste better. After you have washed the greens well, place a large pot with a capacity of 4 liters on the heat and add diced bacon. Let it boil over medium heat until it becomes slightly crispy and aromatic, thus releasing its fat which will give a special flavor to the soup.

While the bacon is boiling, you can get started on the roux, an important element in this recipe. In a pan, add a few tablespoons of oil and, once heated, add a tablespoon of white flour. Stir constantly to avoid lumps forming. Then, add the crushed garlic, which will give the soup a preparatory flavor. Sauté the garlic for just a few minutes until it turns golden, then turn off the heat and add the sweet paprika. This will add a touch of color and a very pleasant smoky flavor.

Once the bacon has boiled, carefully take the warm broth from the pot and pour it over the roux, stirring quickly to prevent lumps from forming. Then, transfer the mixture into the pot with the bacon, mixing well. Let it come to a boil, then add the washed spinach and sorrel, allowing everything to boil together for a few minutes until the greens soften.

Separately, separate two eggs, placing the egg whites in one bowl and the yolks in another. Whisk the yolks well with sour cream, and then gradually add a little of the warm soup, stirring constantly to avoid coagulation. This will be a creamy and rich element that will enrich the soup. Then add the sour cream and yolk mixture to the pot, stirring gently. Don’t forget to season: add vegetable seasoning and pepper to taste, and your soup will have a special flavor. Let the soup come to a boil again, then turn off the heat.

Let it rest for a few minutes before serving, so the flavors can harmonize. You can garnish it with a little freshly chopped dill for an extra touch of freshness. This spinach soup with sorrel and bacon is not only nourishing but also a true feast for the senses!