Tripe soup

Tripe soup – a delicacy that embraces you with every spoonful, filled with rich flavors and comforting textures. This classic recipe is more than just a dish; it is a culinary experience, a tradition that brings families together around the table and transforms ordinary moments into unforgettable memories. Whether you enjoy it on chilly days or during festive occasions, tripe soup adds a touch of warmth to the heart of any meal.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 5 hours
Total time: 5 hours and 30 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients:
- 1.5 kg pre-cooked tripe
- 1-2 beef bones with marrow
- 1 onion
- 2 carrots
- 1 parsnip
- 1 parsley root
- 1 small celery
- 1 bell pepper
- 1-2 cloves of garlic
- 500 ml sour cream
- 3 egg yolks
- Peppercorns
- Salt, to taste
- 5-6 tablespoons of vinegar (for marinating the tripe)

Preparation:

1. Marinating the tripe
Start by thoroughly washing the tripe. Check if it is clean, and if there are any impurities, carefully remove them. Place the tripe in a large pot with cold water and add 5-6 tablespoons of vinegar. Cover the pot and let the tripe marinate overnight. The vinegar not only helps clean the tripe but also tenderizes it, giving it a more pleasant texture.

2. Boiling the bones
The next day, rinse the tripe under cold running water and set it aside. In a large pot, add the beef bones along with enough water to cover them. Boil the bones for 3-4 hours, discarding the first water to remove impurities. This step is essential for obtaining a clear and flavorful broth.

3. Adding the vegetables
After two hours of boiling, add the whole vegetables: onion, carrots, parsnip, parsley root, celery, and bell pepper. Also, add the peppercorns for extra flavor. Let everything simmer together for the remaining time.

4. Cooking the tripe
Once the bones and vegetables are cooked, remove them from the pot. Add the tripe to the obtained broth and let it boil for another hour. It is important to ensure that the tripe is fully cooked and tender.

5. Preparing the soup
After the tripe has boiled, remove it from the pot and let it cool slightly, then cut it into thin strips. While doing this, strain the broth to eliminate any residues. Add the strips of tripe back into the strained broth.

6. Carrot and garlic paste
In a blender, add the cooked carrots and garlic (I recommend using fresh garlic cloves for an intense flavor). Blend the mixture well and add it to the soup. This step will add a creamy texture and a unique taste.

7. Finalizing the soup
Let the soup simmer for an additional hour. At this point, adjust the salt to taste. Tripe soup is known for its intense flavor, but it is important not to overdo it with the salt.

8. Cream preparation
In a separate bowl, mix the egg yolks with the sour cream. Gradually add a ladle of hot broth to the sour cream mixture, stirring continuously to avoid curdling the eggs. After 4-5 ladles, add the mixture to the pot and stir well.

9. Serving
Tripe soup is delicious served hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread and, optionally, with hot pepper. You can also add a spoonful of sour cream when serving for an extra creaminess.

Useful tips:
- If you want a heartier soup, you can add rice or noodles.
- Tripe soup usually improves the next day, so don't hesitate to make a larger batch.
- You can replace the tripe with pork or beef, depending on your preferences.

Nutritional benefits:
Tripe soup is rich in protein due to the meat and bones, while the vegetables add essential fiber and vitamins. The sour cream provides healthy fats, and garlic is known for its antimicrobial properties. This soup is an excellent choice for a comforting winter meal.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen tripe?
Yes, you can use frozen tripe. Make sure to completely thaw it before marinating.
- How can I adapt the recipe for a vegetarian version?
You can replace the tripe with mushrooms or tofu and use vegetable broth as a base.
- What drinks pair well with tripe soup?
A dry white wine or a light beer are excellent choices that complement the flavors of the soup.

I wish you to enjoy every step of this recipe and to turn cooking into a true art! Enjoy your meal!