Zucchini soup with smoked sausages

Zucchini soup with smoked sausages - a recipe that combines simplicity with richness of flavor, quickly becoming my favorite! This soup is perfect for chilly autumn days or for moments when you want to indulge in a warm and comforting meal. The origins of this recipe are deeply rooted in culinary traditions, where fresh ingredients and natural flavors bring joy and comfort to our tables. So, let's embark together on the preparation of this delicacy!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

- 1 large onion
- 1 medium carrot
- 1 large zucchini (or 2 small ones)
- 3 thick smoked sausages
- 100 g sour cream with 25% fat
- 50 ml sunflower oil (or olive oil for a more subtle taste)
- A handful of fresh dill
- 2 beef-flavored Maggi cubes
- Water (about 2-3 cups, depending on the desired consistency)

Detailed instructions

Step 1: Preparing the vegetables

Start by finely chopping the onion. A large onion will add an excellent aromatic base, so don’t skimp on its size. Grate the carrot on the small grater, which will help release its sweet juices into the soup. These vegetables will form the base of your soup.

Step 2: Sautéing the vegetables

In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onion and grated carrot and sauté for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally. You will notice how the onion becomes transparent and the carrot changes color, becoming more vibrant. This is the stage where the flavors begin to develop, and your home will fill with an inviting aroma.

Step 3: Adding the zucchini

After the vegetables have sautéed, add the grated zucchini (use a large grater for a pleasant texture). Pour in 2 cups of water (or more, depending on how liquid you want your soup) and let it boil on high heat for 15 minutes. The zucchini will add a fresh note and a fine texture to your soup.

Step 4: Preparing the sausages

While the vegetables are boiling, slice the sausages into rounds. You can fry them in a separate pan with a little oil until they become golden and crispy. This step will intensify their flavor and add a pleasant contrast to the soup. Once fried, drain them well from the oil and add them to the pot with the soup, along with another 1-2 cups of water.

Step 5: Finishing the soup

After adding the sausages, let the soup boil for another 15 minutes. This is the moment to add the Maggi cubes for beef flavor. They will enhance the flavors and provide a rich taste to your dish.

Step 6: Thickening the soup with sour cream

Remove the soup from the heat and let it cool for 5 minutes. This is an important step, as adding the sour cream to hot soup can cause it to curdle. In a bowl, mix the sour cream with a ladle of warm soup, then incorporate the mixture back into the rest of the soup. Stir well and add the chopped fresh dill, which will bring a fresh aroma and a pleasant look to your soup.

Step 7: Serving the soup

Serve the soup warm, alongside a slice of fresh bread or crispy croutons. It is perfect to be enjoyed with a green salad or pickles for a delicious contrast.

Useful tips and variations

- Vegetarian option: You can replace the sausages with mushrooms or marinated tofu, thus offering a healthy and flavorful option.
- Adding spices: Experiment with spices like paprika or freshly ground pepper to add an extra layer of flavor.
- For a more intense taste: You can add a few bay leaves during boiling to enrich the soup with a subtle aroma.
- Spicier soup: Add a few slices of chili pepper or chili flakes to give a touch of heat to your dish.

Nutritional information

This zucchini soup with smoked sausages is not only delicious but also nutritious. Zucchini is rich in vitamins A and C, contributing to skin health and strengthening the immune system. The smoked sausages add protein, but for a healthier option, opt for lean meat sausages or the vegetarian version.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other vegetables instead of zucchini?
Of course! You can also experiment with other vegetables like potatoes, pumpkin, or even green beans.

2. How long can I keep the soup?
The soup keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days. You can reheat it, but add the sour cream just before serving.

3. Is the soup suitable for vegans?
If you replace the sausages with a vegan protein and the sour cream with a plant-based alternative, you can create a delicious vegan version.

I hope this zucchini soup with smoked sausages recipe brings you warmth and comfort on your days! Every bite will be an explosion of flavors, and cooking will become a pleasure. So, put on your apron, prepare your ingredients, and enjoy this tasty dish!