Pork soup with cabbage juice

Pork soup with cabbage juice – a comforting delicacy that combines tradition with the flavor of a delicious dish. This recipe is perfect for cool days or special occasions, being a symbol of hospitality in many cultures. Let's prepare a rich soup together, full of flavors and nutrients!

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

Ingredients:
- 500 g pork (preferably meat with bone, for a richer taste)
- 2 medium onions
- 1 large carrot
- 1 celery root
- 1 parsnip (or parsley root)
- 2 medium potatoes
- 2 fresh eggs
- 1 bunch of fresh lovage
- 1-2 cups of cabbage juice (according to preference)
- 2-3 tablespoons of tomato paste (or tomato puree)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Optional, chili pepper for serving

The story of pork soup with cabbage juice
Pork soup with cabbage juice is a dish that has its origins in traditional Romanian meals, being a staple in holiday menus or family gatherings. This soup not only offers a full and comforting taste but also a multitude of nutritional benefits due to its ingredients. Pork provides essential proteins, while vegetables add vitamins and minerals, and cabbage juice aids digestion.

Preparation technique
1. Preparing the meat: Start by washing the pork under cold running water, then cut it into suitable cubes. Place the meat in a large pot with cold water and bring to a boil. This step is essential to remove impurities. Once the water starts boiling, use a skimmer to remove the foam that forms on the surface.

2. Changing the water: After skimming the meat, let it boil for a few minutes, then change the water. Add fresh water, salt, and let it boil over medium heat. This will give it a more intense flavor.

3. Adding the vegetables: When the meat is almost cooked (about 30-40 minutes), add the finely chopped onion, grated carrot, diced celery, and parsnip. These vegetables will infuse the soup with delicious flavors.

4. Potatoes and cabbage juice: After the vegetables have softened (about 10-15 minutes), add the peeled and diced potatoes, pepper, and cabbage juice. This ingredient adds a specific sour taste that enhances the soup's flavor.

5. Finalizing the soup: Let the soup boil for another 10-15 minutes until the potatoes are cooked. At this point, finely chop the lovage and add it along with the tomato paste. These will give the soup a vibrant color and an irresistible aroma.

6. Egg drops: In a separate bowl, beat the two eggs. After turning off the heat, add the beaten eggs to the soup, stirring quickly to create egg drops. This step is essential for achieving the desired consistency.

7. Serving: Let the soup rest for 15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and enhances the taste. Serve hot, alongside chili pepper for an extra kick.

Useful tips
- Choosing the meat: Opt for pork with bone, such as shoulder or neck, for a richer taste. If you prefer a leaner option, you can choose lean pork.
- Vegetables: You can also add other vegetables, such as zucchini, green beans, or even chopped cabbage, to diversify the recipe.
- Variations: If you want to try a less sour version, you can reduce the amount of cabbage juice or use tomato juice instead of tomato paste.

Nutritional information
This soup is an excellent source of protein and vitamins, having approximately 350 kcal per serving. It is rich in fiber due to the vegetables, contributing to a healthy digestive system.

Delicious combinations
For a complete lunch or dinner, you can serve pork soup with mashed potatoes or fresh homemade bread. A crispy green salad will perfectly complement this dish.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I replace pork with another type of meat? Yes, you can use chicken or turkey, but the cooking time will vary.

- How can I store the soup? The soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and can be frozen for later use.

- Is this soup suitable for vegans? No, but you can adapt the recipe using vegetables and vegetable broth, omitting the meat and eggs.

Personal note
This pork soup with cabbage juice is more than just a recipe; it is a memory of bountiful meals from childhood, filled with laughter and stories. Each spoonful will remind you of the warmth of home and the joy of sharing food with loved ones. I hope you enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen and the delight you will create!