Tripe soup

Tripe soup is a symbol of traditional cuisine, a recipe that has won the hearts of many with its unique taste and unmistakable texture. This soup is not just a dish that warms you on cold days, but also a culinary experience that evokes family meals. Let's embark together on a culinary journey to discover all the secrets of a perfect tripe soup.

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

Ingredients:
- 3.5 kg fresh beef tripe
- 1 veal shank (about 1 kg)
- 5 onions
- 2 carrots
- 2 peppers (preferably one red and one green)
- A piece of celery
- One parsnip
- A large head of garlic
- 800 ml heavy cream
- 9 egg yolks
- Salt
- Pepper
- 2 bay leaves
- Vinegar (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon baking soda

Preparation:

1. Preparing the tripe: Start by cleaning and washing the beef tripe thoroughly. Cut the tripe into 4-5 pieces and place it in a pot with cold water. Add 100 ml of vinegar and a tablespoon of baking soda. This step is essential for cleaning the tripe and removing unpleasant odors. Let the tripe sit in the refrigerator for 3 hours.

2. Blanching the tripe: After 3 hours, rinse the tripe with cold water and then blanch it in boiling water for a few minutes. This step helps improve the texture of the tripe.

3. Boiling the meat: In a large pot, add the blanched tripe and veal shank. Fill the pot with water (about 4-5 liters) and let it boil over medium heat. At first, remove the foam that forms on the surface to achieve a clear soup.

4. Adding the vegetables: After about 2 hours of boiling, remove the shank from the pot. Once the water has reduced, top it up with hot water. After 5 hours, when the tripe is almost cooked, add the cleaned and chopped vegetables (onions, carrots, peppers, celery, and parsnip), salt, and bay leaves. Add half of the head of garlic, leaving the cloves whole.

5. Finalizing the tripe: When the tripe is cooked, remove it from the pot and let it cool. Then, cut it into thin strips. Strain the soup, reserving two ladles aside. Put the remaining soup back to boil together with the sliced tripe.

6. Egg yolk cream: In a bowl, whisk the egg yolks well. Add the cream and the two ladles of cooled soup, mixing continuously until you achieve a homogeneous composition.

7. Enriching the soup: Pour the egg yolk and cream mixture into the pot with the soup, stirring continuously to avoid coagulation. Add vinegar to taste and season with salt and pepper. Allow it to boil a few times.

8. Garlic sauce: From the remaining garlic, prepare a garlic sauce that you will add to the plate when serving.

9. Serving: Tripe soup is served hot, alongside hot peppers. This combination enhances the flavors and adds a spicy touch that perfectly complements the dish.

Practical tips:
- Ensure that the tripe is fresh and well cleaned. Well-cleaned tripe will make the difference between a delicious soup and one with a less pleasant taste.
- Adjust the amount of vinegar according to your personal preferences. Vinegar not only adds acidity but also helps intensify the flavors.
- You can add other spices, such as thyme or peppercorns, for an even more complex taste.

Nutritional benefits:
Tripe soup is an excellent source of collagen, proteins, and vitamins due to its rich ingredients. It is a hearty dish, ideal for chilly days, but also for recovering the body after a period of intense effort.

Possible variations:
- You can experiment with different types of meat, such as lamb or pork, to achieve a distinct flavor.
- Add extra vegetables like peas or potatoes to make the soup heartier.
- Instead of garlic sauce, you can add garlic sauce or even a splash of hot sauce to enhance the flavor intensity.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen tripe? Yes, but make sure to thaw it well and wash it before use.
- How can I store tripe soup? The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can freeze it, but the texture of the tripe may be affected after thawing.
- Is tripe soup healthy? Although it is a hearty dish, moderate consumption can be part of a balanced diet due to its protein and nutrient content.

Tripe soup is not just a dish, but a true tradition that brings the family together. Whether you serve it at a festive meal or on an ordinary day, it will bring a touch of warmth and comfort to any moment. So, put on your apron, prepare the ingredients, and let's enjoy this delicacy!