Vegetable soup

Vegetable soup with smoked bacon – a feast of flavors and colors

I propose a delicious recipe for vegetable soup with smoked bacon, which perfectly combines the taste of meat with the freshness of vegetables. This soup is a comforting dish that brings pleasant childhood memories and can be enjoyed in any season. With a rich aroma and a silky texture, it is ideal for delighting the taste buds of family or friends. Let’s begin the culinary adventure!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients

• 1 large onion
• 3 carrots
• 2 bell peppers (preferably one red and one green for added color)
• 1 small cauliflower
• 1 celery root
• 1 parsley root
• 200 g smoked bacon
• 1 tablespoon sunflower or olive oil
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
• 1 packet of magic borscht (or lemon juice, to taste)
• A handful of fresh parsley, finely chopped
• Hot pepper, for serving (optional, for those who love spicy)

Preparing the soup

Step 1: Preparing the vegetables
Start by washing the vegetables well. Cutting the vegetables is essential to achieve a uniform and tasty soup. Chop the onion finely, and the carrots, peppers, celery, and parsley can be diced or sliced, depending on your preference. A useful technique is to cut the vegetables into similar sizes, so they cook evenly.

Step 2: Sautéing the vegetables
In a large pot, add a tablespoon of oil and heat it over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the carrots, celery, and peppers. Sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and release their flavors.

Step 3: Adding the bacon and water
After the vegetables are sautéed, add the sliced smoked bacon. This ingredient will add a rich flavor to the soup. Mix well and let it cook for another 5 minutes. Then, add enough water to cover the vegetables and bacon. Season with salt, pepper, and sweet paprika, and then bring the soup to a boil.

Step 4: Boiling
Once the soup begins to boil, reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. It is important to ensure that the bacon is well cooked and the flavors combine perfectly.

Step 5: Adding the cauliflower and borscht
When the meat is nearly cooked, add the cauliflower florets and the magic borscht (or lemon juice, if you prefer). Let the soup simmer for another 10-15 minutes until the cauliflower is tender but not falling apart. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Step 6: Finishing and serving
Once all the ingredients are cooked, turn off the heat and add the chopped fresh parsley. This will add freshness and a splash of color. Serve the soup hot, alongside sour cream and hot pepper if you want a bit of spice. Enjoy your meal!

Useful tips

1. You can customize the recipe by adding other favorite vegetables, such as zucchini or potatoes. This will make the soup even more nutritious and diverse.
2. If you want a vegetarian version, you can replace the smoked bacon with smoked tofu or add mushrooms.
3. The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, and the flavors will become even more intense as it sits.
4. It is ideal to serve it with a slice of fresh bread to savor every drop of this delight.

Calories and nutritional benefits
This vegetable soup with smoked bacon is not only delicious but also healthy. Each serving contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of bacon used. The vegetables are rich in vitamins and minerals, while the smoked bacon provides essential proteins. Fresh parsley is a good source of antioxidants and aids digestion.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can experiment with chicken or pork, but the cooking time will vary.

2. Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, the soup can be frozen, but it is recommended to add the fresh parsley and sour cream only at serving time to keep the flavors intact.

3. How can I enhance the flavor?
Adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce can intensify the flavors.

This recipe for vegetable soup with smoked bacon is not just a dish but a culinary experience that brings family and friends together. Taste the memories, blend traditions, and enjoy every spoonful. Enjoy your meal!