Vegetable soup with smoked ribs

Vegetable soup with smoked bacon: a delicious compromise between the love for vegetables and smoked meats

Sometimes, cooking is an art of compromise, and vegetable soup with smoked bacon is the perfect proof of this. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of fresh vegetables with the intense flavor of smoked bacon, creating a comforting culinary experience that you will love. Moreover, it is a nutritious option, full of vitamins, that can be enjoyed in any season. Let’s embark on a culinary adventure and discover together how to prepare this delicious soup!

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

Ingredients:

- 400 g smoked bacon
- 1 medium onion
- 4 carrots
- 1 parsnip
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 medium potato
- 1 small cauliflower
- 2 tomatoes (or canned tomatoes for a more intense flavor)
- 200 ml sour cream
- salt and pepper, to taste
- fresh parsley leaves, for garnish
- lemon juice, to sour the soup

Step by step in preparing the soup:

1. Preparing the smoked bacon:
Start by cutting the smoked bacon into medium-sized pieces. This is the ingredient that will add a deep and savory flavor to your soup. Place the bacon pieces in a pot and add enough water to cover them. Let them boil until the water comes to a boil, then discard the water to reduce the intensity of the smokiness.

2. Boiling the bacon:
Transfer the smoked bacon to a large pot, add 3 liters of fresh water, and let it boil over medium heat for 15 minutes. This step will extract the flavors from the bacon and create a fragrant base for the soup.

3. Preparing the vegetables:
Meanwhile, peel the onion, carrots, and parsnip. Wash them well and cut them into small cubes. These vegetables will not only add texture but also a natural sweetness to your soup. When the bacon has boiled, add the chopped vegetables to the pot.

4. Adding the root vegetables:
After 10 minutes, add the potato and red bell pepper, both peeled and diced. These ingredients will help thicken the soup and add extra vitamins.

5. Cauliflower:
Break the cauliflower into small florets and add it to the pot. Cauliflower is rich in fiber and vitamins C, B6, and K, making it an excellent nutritious ingredient.

6. The moment for tomatoes:
After 6 minutes of boiling with the cauliflower, add the chopped tomatoes (or canned ones, if you prefer). Tomatoes bring a pleasant acidity that will complement the flavors of the soup.

7. Seasoning:
Finally, season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. This is the perfect moment to use your taste buds – don’t hesitate to adjust the spices to achieve a balanced flavor.

8. Finalizing the soup:
In a separate bowl, mix the sour cream with a ladle of soup to temper it. Then, add the sour cream mixture to the pot. This will provide a delicious creaminess to your soup.

9. Garnish:
Finally, sprinkle finely chopped fresh parsley leaves for an extra touch of freshness. Don’t forget to sour the soup with lemon juice, which will add a note of vitality.

Serving:
Vegetable soup with smoked bacon is served hot, with a slice of fresh bread on the side. You can also add a bit of fresh chili pepper for those who love a touch of spice. It is a perfect meal for chilly days, but also for gatherings with friends and family.

Nutritional details:
This soup is not only tasty but also nourishing. The smoked bacon brings protein, while the vegetables provide fiber and plenty of vitamins. Each serving contains approximately 350 calories, depending on the amount of sour cream used.

Possible variations:
You can add other vegetables depending on the season or preferences. For example, celery, zucchini, or green beans are excellent additions. If you want to try a vegetarian version, you can omit the bacon and use vegetable broth for an intense flavor.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I replace the bacon with another type of meat?
Yes, you can use chicken or pork, but the cooking time will vary. The bacon adds a unique smoky flavor that you won’t get with other types of meat.

2. How long can the soup be stored in the refrigerator?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container.

3. Can the soup be frozen?
Yes, the soup can be frozen, but it is recommended not to add sour cream before freezing. You can add it when reheating.

4. What can I serve with the soup?
This soup pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or a slice of homemade bread. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine will perfectly complement the meal.

Vegetable soup with smoked bacon is more than just a simple soup; it is a culinary experience that blends flavors and textures, bringing together lovers of vegetables and those of smoked meats. So, prepare your ingredients and let yourself be carried away by the delicious aromas of this comforting soup!