Transylvanian Lush

Lushkas soup from Transylvania: A delicacy from the heart of Transylvania

Lushkas soup, a traditional recipe from the heart of Transylvania, combines the rich flavors of smoked meat with the freshness of vegetables, creating a comforting dish perfect for cool days. This soup is not just a simple meal, but a family story, transformed over time into moments of joy and conviviality. By cooking this recipe, you will not only savor a delicious dish, but also bring a touch of tradition to your kitchen.

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

Ingredients:
- 500 g smoked pork (4 ribs + lean meat)
- 2 sprigs of dried thyme
- 1 large onion
- 1 carrot
- 1 red bell pepper
- 950 g white cabbage
- 5 tomatoes
- 100 ml tomato paste
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- A little dried thyme

Preparation steps:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by washing the smoked pork well. Cut the ribs and lean meat into cubes of about 3-4 cm. Place the meat in a large pot, add the sprigs of dried thyme, and cover with water. Boil for 10-15 minutes over medium heat, skimming off the foam that forms on the surface. This step is essential for obtaining a clear and tasty soup.

2. Preparing the vegetables: While the meat is boiling, peel and finely chop the onion. Peel the carrot and cut it into small cubes. Remove the stem and seeds from the bell pepper, then chop it finely as well. Rinse the white cabbage with a little water and chop it as finely as possible. Wash the dill and chop it, keeping a few sprigs for decoration.

3. Adding the vegetables: Once the meat has boiled, add the onion, carrot, bell pepper, and cabbage to the pot. Mix well and let it simmer on low heat, covered, for about 30-40 minutes, until the meat and vegetables become tender. It is important to stir occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot.

4. Tomatoes and tomato paste: Wash the tomatoes and remove the stem. To peel them more easily, dip them in hot water for 1-2 minutes, then quickly cool them in cold water. Peel the tomatoes and cut them into cubes. Add the tomatoes to the soup, along with the tomato paste, salt, and pepper, to taste. Let the soup boil for another 5-10 minutes, during which the flavors will combine.

5. Finalizing the soup: Check the soup's density and add water if necessary. Add the remaining dill and a little dried thyme, letting the soup simmer for a few more minutes to intensify the flavors.

6. Serving: Lushkas soup is served hot, ideally with a spoonful of sour cream on top and a slice of fresh bread on the side. It is perfect for a family lunch or a comforting dinner.

Chef's tip: If you want a deeper flavor, you can also add some diced potatoes during the vegetable boiling stage. Also, feel free to experiment with different types of meat, such as beef or chicken, for a lighter version.

Nutritional benefits: Lushkas soup is rich in protein due to the pork and contains many vitamins from the fresh vegetables. Cabbage, for example, is an excellent source of vitamin C, while dill adds a boost of antioxidants.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can the soup be frozen? Yes, you can freeze the soup, but it is recommended to add sour cream only when serving.
- Can I use frozen vegetables? Sure! Frozen vegetables are a good alternative, but make sure to add them to the soup in the last 10-15 minutes of cooking.

Accompanying recipes: This soup pairs perfectly with warm polenta or a beet salad, which will add a contrast of flavors and textures. Additionally, a chicken stew or a platter of Transylvanian cheeses can perfectly complete the meal.

Lushkas soup is not just a dish, but a culinary experience that will remind you of family meals and the warmth of home. I invite you to prepare it, enjoy every spoonful, and share this recipe with your loved ones. Bon appétit!