Vegetable soup with smoked pork and tarragon
Vegetable soup with kaizer and tarragon: a perfect blend of flavors that will fill your soul with joy
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Servings: 6
Vegetable soup with kaizer and tarragon is a beloved recipe cherished by many generations, with deep roots in culinary traditions. It is a dish that not only warms you but also brings back pleasant memories spent with loved ones. Whether it’s a chilly autumn day or you simply need the comfort of a warm meal, this soup is the perfect choice.
Ingredients
- 200 grams of kaizer (choose a quality kaizer with a balanced meat and fat content)
- 4 medium potatoes (choose potatoes that do not break down easily during cooking)
- 1 small cabbage (opt for fresh cabbage with crispy leaves)
- 2 carrots (sweet carrots add extra flavor)
- 1/2 celery root (use fresh celery for an intense taste)
- 1 red bell pepper (adds a splash of color and sweetness)
- 1 parsley root (for added flavor)
- 1 onion (onion adds depth to the soup)
- 3 tomatoes (fresh or canned tomatoes will add acidity)
- 200 grams of sour cream (opt for a rich sour cream for a creamy texture)
- 1 tablespoon of Delikat (or another preferred seasoning)
- Tarragon (fresh, but you can also use dried)
- Oil for frying
- Salt, to taste
Preparation
1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing all the vegetables under a stream of cold water. Cut the vegetables into small cubes so they cook evenly. The kaizer can be sliced thinly. This step is essential as each ingredient will contribute to the final flavor of the soup.
2. Sauté the kaizer: In a large pot, add 2-3 tablespoons of oil and heat over medium heat. Add the slices of kaizer and let them brown slightly. This will release the fat and flavors from the kaizer, giving a deep taste to your soup.
3. Add the vegetables: Once the kaizer has taken on a golden color, add the chopped vegetables (potatoes, carrots, celery, bell pepper, and onion). Stir well to combine the flavors and let them sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Boil the soup: Add 2-3 liters of water to the pot, ensuring that all the ingredients are covered. Cover the pot with a lid and let the soup simmer over medium heat for 20-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are cooked and tender.
5. Preparing the sour cream: In a separate bowl, combine the sour cream with a tablespoon of Delikat and a few tablespoons of soup broth. This step will help you homogenize the sour cream and prevent lumps when adding it to the soup.
6. Finishing the soup: When the vegetables are cooked, add the sour cream mixture to the pot and stir well. Season with salt to taste and add the finely chopped tarragon, along with the liquid it was in. The tarragon will provide a unique aromatic note, and if you prefer, you can substitute the tarragon with chopped fresh parsley for a different version.
7. Serve the soup: The soup is served hot, and for added flavor, you can add pickled cabbage juice, which will perfectly complement the flavors. You can accompany it with a slice of fresh bread or polenta for a truly traditional meal.
Useful tips
- Substitutions: If you don’t have kaizer on hand, you can use ham or smoked sausages for a different flavor. Also, the vegetables can be varied according to the season and preferences.
- Make a larger batch: This soup keeps well in the fridge and can be reheated the next day, tasting even better.
- Vegan version: You can make a vegan version of this soup by omitting the kaizer and using olive oil, plus additional vegetables like zucchini or cauliflower.
Nutritional benefits
This soup is rich in vitamins and minerals due to the fresh vegetables. The kaizer adds protein, while the sour cream provides healthy fats. Cabbage, carrots, and tomatoes are full of antioxidants, and tarragon is known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I add other vegetables to the soup? Yes, you can add vegetables like zucchini, green beans, or peas, depending on your preferences.
2. How long can the soup be stored? The soup can be kept in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can freeze it for later consumption.
3. Should I buy fresh or dried tarragon? Fresh tarragon has a more intense and aromatic flavor, but dried tarragon can also be used, adjusting the quantity to half.
4. What drinks pair well with the soup? Vegetable soup with kaizer pairs perfectly with a dry white wine or a pale beer, which will balance the rich flavors of the dish.
Vegetable soup with kaizer and tarragon is more than just a simple dish; it is a recipe that brings people together, evoking pleasant memories and unforgettable moments. So, embrace this recipe and enjoy every spoonful! Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: 200 g of kaiser ham, 4 medium potatoes, 1 small cabbage, 2 carrots, 1/2 celery, 1 red bell pepper, 1 parsley, 1 onion, 3 tomatoes, 200 g sour cream, 1 tablespoon of Delikat, tarragon