Transylvanian vegetable soup

Transylvanian vegetable soup: a warm hug on a plate

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Transylvanian vegetable soup is a traditional recipe, full of flavor and colors, that brings the warmth and comfort of a home-cooked meal to every family’s table. This soup is not just a simple vegetable broth, but a true feast of flavors, combining fresh, healthy, and nutritious ingredients. Whether you enjoy it on cool autumn days or summer evenings, Transylvanian vegetable soup is an excellent choice for anyone looking to savor a delicious and nourishing dish.

The history of this soup is closely linked to culinary traditions from rural regions, where people grew their vegetables in gardens and prepared their meals from local ingredients. This recipe has been passed down from generation to generation, adapted according to the season and available ingredients. Vegetable soup is not just food, but also a way to share our love and care with our loved ones.

The ingredients needed for Transylvanian vegetable soup are simple and accessible, yet each brings valuable contributions to the dish:

- 2 medium onions, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 bell peppers, diced
- 1 celery root (about 150 g), diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 leek (white part), sliced
- 200 g white cabbage, finely chopped
- 3 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 100 g fresh tomatoes or tomato puree
- 400 ml cabbage juice
- 50 ml sunflower oil
- Sour cream (for serving)
- Fresh lovage, finely chopped
- Delikat or salt (to taste)

Preparing this soup is simple and does not require advanced cooking skills. Here are the steps you need to follow:

1. Start by preparing the ingredients. Finely chop the onion, cut the carrots and celery into larger cubes, and chop the other vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, leek, and cabbage) finely. This step will ensure even cooking and a pleasant presentation of the soup.

2. In a large pot, add 3 liters of water and bring to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the onion, carrots, and celery. Let it simmer on low heat for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. After the vegetables have started to soften, add the bell peppers, zucchini, leek, cabbage, and potatoes. Cover the pot with a lid and let the soup simmer on low heat until all the vegetables are cooked, about 20-25 minutes. Don’t forget to check the consistency of the vegetables from time to time.

4. When the vegetables are almost cooked, add the peeled and diced tomatoes, along with the cabbage juice and oil. This will add a pleasant flavor and a touch of acidity to the soup. Let everything simmer on low heat until the soup comes to a boil.

5. Finally, season the soup with Delikat or salt to taste. Then, remove the pot from heat and add the finely chopped fresh lovage. This will bring a fresh aroma and a note of freshness to the soup.

6. Transylvanian vegetable soup is ready! Serve it hot, with a spoonful of sour cream on top of each serving. The sour cream will add a pleasant creaminess, balancing the intense flavors of the vegetables.

Useful tips for a perfect result:

- Use fresh, seasonal vegetables to achieve the best flavor. Vegetable soup is a versatile recipe, so you can adapt the ingredients according to personal preferences or what you have on hand.
- If you want a spicier soup, add a bit of hot pepper or spices like paprika.
- Experiment with other vegetables: carrots can be replaced with turnips, and cabbage can be substituted with kale for a healthier version.
- Instead of sunflower oil, you can use olive oil for a more intense flavor.

Transylvanian vegetable soup pairs perfectly with a slice of fresh bread or polenta, and for a complete meal, accompany it with a fresh green salad. As for beverages, a glass of dry white wine or a refreshing lemonade are excellent options.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, you can use frozen vegetables, but cooking time may vary slightly. Make sure to let them thaw before use.

2. How long does the soup keep in the fridge?
Vegetable soup keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove.

3. Is the vegetable soup suitable for vegans?
Yes, this recipe is completely vegan as long as you omit the sour cream or use a vegan alternative.

Calories and nutritional benefits:

Vegetable soup is an excellent choice for a healthy diet. A serving (about 250 ml) contains approximately 100 calories, providing a wealth of vitamins and minerals from fresh vegetables. It is high in fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight.

In conclusion, Transylvanian vegetable soup is more than just a simple culinary dish – it is a celebration of natural flavors and culinary traditions, a dish that brings us together and helps us enjoy the simple moments in life. Prepare it with love, share it with your loved ones, and savor every spoonful of this delicious soup!

 Ingredients: 2 onions, 2 carrots, 2 bell peppers, 1 celery root, 1 zucchini, 1 leek, 200g white cabbage, 3 potatoes, 100g fresh tomatoes or in broth, 400ml cabbage juice, 50ml oil, sour cream, lovage, Delikat.