Transylvanian pork soup

Transylvanian Pork Soup - a Feast of Flavors and Traditions

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Transylvanian pork soup is a dish that evokes childhood memories and the warmth of home, being a beloved recipe for many. This rich and nourishing soup combines succulent meat with fresh vegetables, offering those who savor it a perfect and comforting taste. It is a perfect dish for cold days, but also for any occasion when you want to impress with a simple yet special recipe.

The basic ingredients are readily available, and the combination of them envelops the soup in an appetizing aroma. Let’s see how we can prepare this delicacy step by step.

Necessary ingredients:
- 500 g pork (ideally from the back, which is more tender)
- 1 carrot (approximately 150 g)
- 1 onion (medium, preferably white or yellow)
- 1 piece of parsnip (approximately 100 g)
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red, for a pop of color)
- 100 g rice (short-grain type, to absorb the flavors)
- 150 ml sour cream (preferably high-fat for creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons of flour (to thicken the soup)
- Vinegar or lemon juice (to taste)
- Salt, pepper, and hot chili (for a hint of spice)
- Fresh parsley (for decoration and an extra touch of flavor)

Necessary utensils:
- A large pot for boiling
- A frying pan for sautéing the vegetables
- A sharp knife
- A wooden spatula
- A whisk or fork for mixing
- A measuring spoon

Step by step for preparing the soup:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by cutting the pork into medium-sized cubes. This will allow for even cooking. Place the meat in a large pot, add cold water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and let simmer for about 30 minutes. Skimming is essential to achieve a clear soup, so don’t forget to remove the foam that forms on the surface.

2. Preparing the vegetables: Meanwhile, peel and chop the vegetables. The carrot and parsnip can be diced, while the onion should be finely chopped. The bell pepper is cut into small cubes. This mixture will give the soup a rich flavor and pleasant texture.

3. Sautéing the vegetables: In a frying pan, add a little oil and sauté the vegetables over medium heat. Stir constantly until they become soft, about 5-7 minutes. This step is important as sautéing intensifies the flavors of the vegetables.

4. Adding the vegetables to the soup: After the meat has cooked for 30 minutes, add the sautéed vegetables and rice. Let everything simmer together on low heat for another 15-20 minutes, until the rice and vegetables are cooked.

5. Thickening the soup: In a bowl, mix the sour cream with the flour and a ladle of soup broth. This mixture will help prevent lumps from forming. Once you have a smooth composition, slowly pour it into the pot while stirring continuously. Bring the soup to a boil and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.

6. Seasoning the soup: Now is the time to season the soup with salt, pepper, and a pinch of hot chili, to taste. Remember that each ingredient will contribute to the final flavor, so don’t hesitate to adjust the seasonings according to your preferences.

7. Finalizing: Once the soup is ready, turn off the heat and let it cool slightly. Add the vinegar or lemon juice, depending on your preferences. These will provide a tangy flavor that balances the richness of the soup.

8. Serving: The soup is served hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley. You can also add a spoonful of sour cream on top for a more appetizing appearance.

Practical tips:
- Choosing the meat: Use pork with a moderate fat content to achieve a juicier soup. The back or neck are ideal.
- Vegetables: You can experiment with adding other vegetables, such as celery or zucchini, to diversify the flavor of the soup.
- Variations: If you are vegetarian or vegan, you can replace the meat with mushrooms or tofu and add more vegetables of your choice. The rice can be substituted with quinoa or barley for a healthier option.
- The sour taste: If you prefer a more tangy soup, add more vinegar or lemon juice. This detail can completely transform the dish.
- Serving: Transylvanian soup pairs perfectly with a slice of fresh bread or polenta. Additionally, a light beer would be an ideal accompaniment.

Nutritional benefits:
This soup is an excellent source of protein due to the pork, and the vegetables add important vitamins and fibers for a healthy diet. A serving contains approximately 350 calories, depending on the amount of meat and sour cream used.

Frequently asked questions:
- How long can the soup be kept? It is recommended to consume it within 3 days, stored in the refrigerator. You can freeze it if you want to keep it longer.
- Can I use chicken instead of pork? Of course! The soup will have a different taste, but it will be just as delicious.
- What can I do if I don’t have sour cream? You can use Greek yogurt or a plant-based sour cream alternative to achieve a similar texture.

Preparing Transylvanian pork soup is a pleasant and comforting activity that brings family and friends together around the table. Don’t hesitate to play with the ingredients and add your personal touch! Enjoy every bite and savor the tradition of these delicious dishes.