Transylvanian potato soup with smoked bone

Transylvanian Potato Soup with Smoked Bone

Transylvanian Potato Soup with Smoked Bone is a recipe that envelops us in a warm and comforting aroma, perfect for cool days or moments when we want to enjoy something traditional. This soup, easy to prepare, has been passed down from generation to generation, with deep roots in culinary culture. Every time I make it, I remember my grandmother, who lovingly served us in traditional bowls, full of stories and memories.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 1 kg potatoes
- 1 smoked pork bone (homemade)
- 1 large onion
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 new parsley root
- 2 new carrots
- 2 green onions
- 2 green garlic stalks
- 1 small bunch of celery leaves
- 1 bunch of parsley leaves
- 50 ml tomato paste
- 200 ml sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2-3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- Pepper
- Salt (optional)

Preparation of Transylvanian Potato Soup with Smoked Bone:

Step 1: Preparing the smoked bone
Start by blanching the smoked bone in boiling water to remove any impurities and enhance the flavors. Place the bone in a large pot and add enough water to completely cover it. Boil over medium heat for about 10 minutes, then reduce the temperature.

Step 2: Preparing the vegetables
While the bone is boiling, clean and wash all the vegetables. Chop the onion, carrots, bell pepper, and parsley root into small cubes. This step is essential, as the size of the cubes will influence the cooking time and texture of the soup.

Step 3: Adding the vegetables to the pot
Add the chopped vegetables to the pot with the smoked bone. Also add the dried thyme to bring an aromatic note. Cover the pot and let the vegetables simmer with the bone for 15-20 minutes, until they become tender.

Step 4: The potatoes
Meanwhile, peel the potatoes and cut them into larger cubes. Add them to the pot with the cooked vegetables and continue cooking for another 10-15 minutes, until the potatoes are soft but not falling apart.

Step 5: The sour cream and tomato mixture
In a separate bowl, mix the tomato paste with the sour cream. Diluting the sour cream with warm soup broth will prevent lumps from forming. Gradually add the sour cream mixture to the pot, stirring constantly to achieve a smooth consistency.

Step 6: Finishing the soup
Remove the bone from the pot and clean it of meat. Add the meat back into the soup. Add the apple cider vinegar and adjust the taste with salt and pepper, if necessary. Be careful, as the smoked bone is already salty, so additional salt may not be needed.

Step 7: The greens
Finely chop the celery and parsley leaves and add them to the soup along with the green onions and green garlic. These will bring an extra freshness and flavor.

Serving:
Transylvanian Potato Soup with Smoked Bone is served hot, in traditional bowls, alongside hot peppers and chopped green onions. These additions will further enhance the flavor of the soup, bringing a pleasant contrast.

Useful tips:
- The smoked bone can vary in saltiness, so it's always good to taste the soup before adding salt.
- If you want a more intense flavor, you can also add a bay leaf during cooking.
- The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and is even tastier the next day when the flavors have melded.

Nutritional benefits:
This soup is rich in nutrients, with potatoes full of carbohydrates, vegetables full of vitamins and minerals, and protein from the smoked bone. It is an excellent choice for a hearty and comforting meal.

Possible variations:
For a vegetarian version, you can replace the smoked bone with vegetable broth and add mushrooms or tofu for an extra protein boost. You can also experiment with different types of vegetables, such as peas or green beans, to add a different taste and new texture.

Frequently asked questions:
- How long can the soup be stored? Transylvanian soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and can be frozen for longer storage.
- Can I use smoked bone from another type of meat? Yes, you can experiment with different types of smoked bones to achieve varied flavors.
- Is this soup suitable for children? Yes, it is a healthy recipe, but make sure to reduce the salt and not add hot peppers for the little ones.

Transylvanian Potato Soup with Smoked Bone is not just a meal, but a culinary experience full of warmth and tradition. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, it will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Savor each spoonful and let yourself be carried away by the memories that this recipe brings!