SUMMER SOUP WITH SOUR CHERRIES AND PLUMS

Summer Soup with Sour Cherries and Plums - An Explosion of Freshness and Flavor

Summer soup with sour cherries and plums is a recipe that blends the sweet-sour tastes of fruits with the rich flavors of fresh vegetables. This soup is not just a nourishing meal, but also a celebration of summer, bringing all the colors and flavors of the warm season to the table. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, summer soup is a delight that will pamper your senses.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Number of Servings: 6

Ingredients:

- 2-3 medium potatoes
- 1 large onion
- 200 g mixed vegetables (carrot, peas, corn)
- 1 teaspoon of tomato paste
- 1 peeled tomato (or canned tomatoes)
- 200 g pasta (preferably noodles or short pasta)
- 30 sour cherries and 30 plums (either fresh or dried)
- 1/2 small cabbage
- 1 bunch of dill
- 1 bunch of parsley
- 1 bunch of lovage
- 1 teaspoon of Delikat (or salt, to taste)
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)

Step-by-Step Preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

Start by washing the sour cherries and plums well. If using dried plums, make sure to soak them in a bowl of warm water for 30 minutes. Peel the potatoes and cut them into cubes. Chop the onion finely, and peel and dice the tomato.

Step 2: Boiling the Sour Cherries and Plums

Put the sour cherries and plums in a pot with water and let them boil for 10 minutes. After boiling, strain the juice and keep it. The boiled fruits can be added later to the soup for extra flavor and texture.

Step 3: Sautéing the Vegetables

In a large pot, add the olive oil and place it over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the tomato and tomato paste, continuing to sauté for another 2 minutes.

Step 4: Adding Vegetables and Water

Add the potato cubes, finely chopped cabbage, and mixed vegetables. Mix well and let them sauté together for 5 minutes. Then, pour in water (about 2 liters) and bring everything to a boil.

Step 5: Adding the Sour Cherry and Plum Juice

When the water begins to boil, add the chopped dill, parsley, and Delikat. Stir and let it simmer on low heat for 15 minutes. Then, add the pasta and boil everything together for 3-4 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.

Step 6: Finishing the Soup

After the pasta is cooked, add the sour cherry and plum juice and, if desired, the sour cream. Gently stir and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes. Before turning off the heat, add the chopped lovage, freshly ground pepper, and a few whole sour cherries for garnish. Cover the pot with a lid and let the flavors infuse for 5 minutes.

Practical Tips:

- Sour Cherries and Plums: These fruits bring a note of sweetness and acidity to the soup, balancing the flavors. Opt for well-ripened sour cherries and sweet plums for the best results.
- Vegetables: You can experiment with the vegetables you have on hand. Add zucchini, bell peppers, or even green beans for extra texture and nutrients.
- Pasta: If you prefer a gluten-free option, you can use rice or quinoa pasta.
- Serving: Summer soup is served hot, with a spoonful of sour cream on top and a few fresh lovage leaves. It is delicious to accompany it with a slice of fresh bread or crunchy croutons.

Possible Variations:

- Meat Soup: You can add cubes of chicken or pork, sautéed together with the onion for a heartier version.
- Vegetarian Soup: Omit the meat and add more vegetables and spices for a complex flavor.

Nutritional Benefits:

Summer soup with sour cherries and plums is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, thanks to the fresh vegetables and fruits. It is rich in antioxidants, fiber, and low in calories, making it ideal for those looking to stay fit. A serving of soup contains approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the amount of sour cream used.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use frozen fruits? Yes, frozen fruits are a perfect alternative. Make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the soup.
2. How long does the soup last? The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. It can be reheated, but it is recommended to add a little water to avoid excessive thickening.
3. Can I adapt the recipe to my preferences? Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile, so feel free to add or remove ingredients according to your personal taste.

Conclusion

Summer soup with sour cherries and plums is more than just a recipe; it is a culinary experience that combines tradition with innovation. Whether you enjoy it on a hot summer day or prepare it to bring a touch of sunshine to gloomy days, this soup will surely bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. So, let’s get cooking and enjoy every spoonful!