Vegetable soup with smoked meat

Vegetable soup with smoked meat

A vegetable soup with smoked meat is not just a nourishing dish, but also a story that unfolds with every spoonful. This recipe is perfect for the cool autumn or winter days when we seek comfort on our plates. The rich flavor of the smoked meat combined with the aromas of fresh vegetables creates a delicious blend that reminds us of family meals and warm moments spent together.

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

Ingredients:
- 3 medium carrots
- 2 onions (one white and one green)
- 2 peppers (preferably one red and one yellow for a vibrant look)
- 200 g frozen peas
- 2 pieces of smoked pork shoulder (about 400 g)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 1 bunch of celery leaves
- 100 g rice (washed)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika
- 2 tablespoons of pepper paste or tomato paste
- Juice from 2 pickled hot peppers (to sour the soup)
- Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing and peeling the vegetables. Cut the carrots into small cubes, the onion into thin slices, and the peppers into cubes. These cuts will help with even cooking and make the soup more appealing. If you are short on time, you can use a food processor to chop the vegetables quickly.

2. Boiling the meat: Place the pieces of smoked pork shoulder in a pressure cooker, cover them with water, and boil for 20 minutes. This cooking method will help the meat become tender and release its aroma.

3. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot, heat the 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the carrots and peppers. Sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

4. Adding the broth and rice: After the meat has boiled, remove it from the pot and let it cool slightly. Use the meat broth to deglaze the sautéed vegetables and add water if necessary to achieve the desired consistency. Then, add the washed rice and frozen peas. Let everything simmer on low heat for about 15 minutes.

5. Finishing the soup: Meanwhile, remove the meat from the bones and cut it into small pieces. Add it to the pot along with the sweet paprika and pepper paste or tomato paste. Mix well and let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes. Finally, add the finely chopped greens and the juice from the pickled hot peppers, adjusting the taste with salt and pepper.

6. Serving: The soup is ready! You can serve it hot, with a slice of fresh bread or polenta. A dollop of sour cream on top will add delicious creaminess.

Practical tips:
- You can experiment with different types of smoked meat, such as bacon or sausages. Each adds a unique flavor to the soup.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can omit the meat and add more vegetables or mushrooms to enrich the flavor.
- A good soup is based on a flavor foundation, so don't hesitate to add spices like thyme or bay leaves for an extra boost of flavor.
- The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and will even intensify in flavor over time.

Nutritional information:
This vegetable soup with smoked meat is packed with vitamins and minerals due to the fresh vegetables. The smoked meat provides essential proteins, while the rice adds healthy carbohydrates. One serving has approximately 300-350 calories, depending on the serving size and the ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen vegetables? Of course! Frozen vegetables can be successfully used, but it is recommended to add them to the soup a few minutes earlier than fresh vegetables for even cooking.
- How sour should the soup be? That depends on everyone's taste. Start with a small amount of pickled hot pepper juice and add gradually, tasting along the way.

Possible variations:
- Add potatoes for a richer consistency.
- Experiment with spices like cumin or smoked paprika for a different taste.
- Replace the rice with quinoa or bulgur for a healthier option.

This vegetable soup with smoked meat is not just a tasty dish, but also an opportunity to connect with loved ones around the table. Whether you serve it on a chilly day or at a family gathering, it will surely be a hit. So, get to work and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen! Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 3 carrots, green and white onion, 2 peppers, frozen peas, 2 pieces of smoked pork meat, a bunch of parsley and celery, rice, tomato paste