Vegetable soup with smoked meat

Vegetable soup with smoked meat - a simple and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 6

Vegetable soup with smoked meat is a traditional dish, full of flavors and colors, that brings a sense of comfort and warmth on any day. It is an excellent choice to take advantage of seasonal vegetables and the richness of smoked meat, which adds a deep and rich taste. This recipe is perfect to be enjoyed with loved ones, being not only nutritious but also full of history and tradition.

Ingredients

- 3 large carrots
- 1 medium celery
- 1 white onion
- 1 green onion
- 2 peppers (preferably one red and one green)
- 250 g frozen peas
- 2 pieces of smoked pork (approximately 400 g)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 1 bunch of celery leaves
- 100 g rice (preferably long grain)
- 1 tablespoon sweet paprika
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste or pepper paste
- 2-3 tablespoons sunflower oil
- 1-2 pickled hot peppers to sour the soup
- Salt and pepper to taste

Brief history

Vegetable soup with smoked meat is a dish that has been appreciated over time for its versatility and accessible ingredients. In many cultures, soups have been seen as an efficient way to use available ingredients, and smoked meat has been a traditional method of preserving meat. This type of soup is often prepared on colder days, being perfect as a comforting and nutritious food.

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by cleaning and chopping the vegetables. Cut the carrots and celery into small cubes, and the white onion and peppers into slices. You can slice the green onion into rings. This step is essential to ensure that the vegetables cook evenly.

2. Boiling the meat: Place the smoked pork in a pressure cooker with water and add a little salt. Boil for about 20 minutes to get tender and flavorful meat. After boiling, remove the meat from the pot and let it cool slightly, then separate the meat from the bones.

3. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot, heat 2-3 tablespoons of oil. Add the white onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become slightly transparent and aromatic.

4. Adding the liquid: After the vegetables have sautéed, add the meat broth (from the pot where you boiled the pork) and fill with water until the vegetables are covered. If the broth is too concentrated, feel free to add more water.

5. Cooking the vegetables: Let it boil over medium heat for 15-20 minutes until the vegetables are soft. Add the frozen peas in the last 5 minutes of cooking.

6. Finishing the soup: After the vegetables are cooked, add the meat separated from the bones, the washed rice, sweet paprika, and tomato paste or pepper paste. Mix well and let it boil for another 10-15 minutes until the rice is cooked.

7. Serving: Finally, add the chopped parsley and celery, as well as the pickled hot pepper to sour the soup. Let it boil together for a few minutes, then taste and adjust salt and pepper to your preference.

8. Serving suggestion: Serve the soup hot, with a slice of fresh bread or polenta, for a truly comforting meal. You can also add a spoonful of sour cream for an even richer taste.

Useful tips

- Choosing the meat: I recommend using quality smoked pork that provides an intense flavor and tenderness. You can also experiment with other types of meat, such as smoked sausages or chicken, depending on your preferences.

- Vegetables: You can also add other vegetables, such as potatoes, zucchini, or cauliflower, to diversify the soup. These will add not only nutrients but also varied textures.

- The rice: If you want a lighter version, you can omit the rice or replace it with quinoa or couscous.

- Souring the soup: If you prefer a more sour soup, you can use lemon juice or vinegar instead of pickled hot peppers.

Nutritional benefits

Vegetable soup with smoked meat is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals due to the fresh vegetables included. Carrots and celery provide fiber, while smoked meat brings essential proteins. This is a hearty meal that can be perfect for a family dinner.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, you can use frozen vegetables to save time, but fresh vegetables provide a more intense flavor.

- How long does the soup last in the fridge? The soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. It tastes even better the next day when the flavors have melded.

- Can the soup be frozen? Yes, you can freeze the soup, but it is recommended to do so without rice, as it can become mushy upon thawing.

Vegetable soup with smoked meat is more than just a dish; it is a culinary experience that brings family and friends together. So, prepare your ingredients and enjoy a delicious meal that will fill your home with enticing aromas! Enjoy!