Tripe soup

Beef tripe soup is a traditional dish with a history spanning decades, a true feast for lovers of delicious food. This recipe, passed down from generation to generation, was my mother's pride, and now I have the pleasure of sharing it with you. Get ready to discover the secrets of a delicious, aromatic tripe soup, perfect for enjoying on chilly days or when you want to bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones.

Total preparation time: 2 hours
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 1 kg beef tripe
- 2 medium onions
- 3 carrots
- 1/2 celery
- 1 head of garlic
- 3 lemons
- 2 eggs
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 2 tablespoons oil
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Fresh chopped parsley
- Sliced pickled red bell pepper (optional)

Step 1: Preparing the tripe
Start by thoroughly washing the beef tripe under a cold running water. It is essential to clean it carefully to remove any impurities. Then, cut the tripe into small slices for even cooking. This step is crucial for achieving a pleasant texture in the soup.

Step 2: Boiling the base
In a large pot, add 2 liters of water and bring the sliced tripe to a boil. Add the grated celery, finely chopped onion, and a teaspoon of salt. These ingredients will add depth and flavor to the soup. Let it simmer on low heat for about an hour. It is important not to rush this process, as slow boiling will make the tripe tender and flavorful.

Step 3: Preparing the carrots
Meanwhile, peel the carrots and grate them. In a pan, add 2 tablespoons of oil and sauté the carrots until they turn slightly golden. This step will enhance the flavor of the carrots and add an extra taste to the soup.

Step 4: Mixing the ingredients
Once the carrots are sautéed, use a sieve to drain them, keeping the oil. I recommend not adding the carrots to the soup if you prefer a less sweet taste, as I do. However, if you enjoy a hint of sweetness in the soup, feel free to add them.

Step 5: Adding the flavors
Once the tripe has boiled, squeeze the juice from the 3 lemons and add it to the soup. This ingredient will provide a pleasant acidity, balancing the rich flavor of the meat. Then, add salt and pepper to taste, mixing well.

Step 6: Cream mixture
In a separate bowl, mix the eggs with the sour cream. It is important to mix them well to achieve a smooth consistency. Then, using a ladle, take some soup from the pot and gradually add it over the egg and sour cream mixture. This step will prevent the sour cream from curdling when added to the soup.

Step 7: Finishing the soup
After adding the sour cream mixture to the soup, add the crushed garlic for an intense and aromatic flavor. Finally, sprinkle the freshly chopped parsley and, if desired, a few slices of pickled red bell pepper for a splash of color and a tangy note.

Serving
Beef tripe soup is served hot, alongside a generous spoonful of sour cream and, if you like, with chili peppers for a bit of spice. It is a perfect dish for any festive meal or a family weekend dinner.

Nutritional benefits
This soup is not only delicious but also nourishing. Beef tripe is a good source of protein, and the addition of vegetables like carrots and celery provides essential vitamins. The lemon adds a boost of vitamin C, supporting the immune system.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen tripe?
Yes, you can use frozen tripe, but make sure to fully thaw it before cooking.
2. How can I make the soup spicier?
Adding fresh chili peppers or chili flakes will intensify the spicy flavor.
3. What other vegetables can I add to the soup?
You can experiment with vegetables like bell peppers or even tomatoes, depending on your preferences.

Now that you have all the necessary details, all that’s left is to try this tripe soup recipe! I invite you to prepare it and share this authentic culinary experience with your loved ones. Whether you are an experienced cook or a beginner, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your home!