Potato soup with smoked bacon

Potato soup with smoked bacon

Potato soup with smoked bacon is a comforting dish, full of flavors and tradition. It is the kind of food that reminds you of family meals, cool autumn days, and the simple joys of life. This recipe will not only warm your soul but also fill you with energy, being rich in nutrients and having a special taste. Let’s discover together how to prepare this delicious soup, step by step!

Total time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients:

- 1 kg large potatoes (preferably red potatoes)
- ½ red bell pepper
- 1 piece of celery root (about 150 g)
- 1 stalk of celery (leaves and stem)
- 1 parsley root (about 100 g)
- 1 large onion
- 1 large carrot
- 1 sprig of fresh or dried tarragon
- 300 ml sour cream
- Salt, pepper (to taste)
- Magic borscht (for souring)
- 1 teaspoon vegetable Delikat
- 1 tablespoon oil

Preparation:

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by peeling and chopping the vegetables. The onion, carrot, celery, and parsley root should be diced into small cubes, while the red bell pepper can be sliced into thin strips. This step is essential as even cutting helps the vegetables cook evenly.

2. Heating the oil: In a large pot, add the tablespoon of oil and heat it over medium heat. The oil will help caramelize the vegetables, bringing depth of flavor to the soup.

3. Sautéing the vegetables: Add the onion, carrot, celery, and parsley root to the pot with oil. Sprinkle a little salt and let them sauté on low heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This process will bring out the natural flavors of the vegetables and prepare the base of the soup.

4. Adding water and bacon: Once the vegetables have softened, add 2-3 liters of cold water and the pieces of smoked bacon. The bacon adds a smoky and rich flavor to the soup, so don’t skip it! Add the stalk of celery and tarragon, which will provide a fresh aroma to the dish.

5. Boiling the soup: Let the soup simmer on low heat for 30-45 minutes. It’s important to check constantly, adding boiling water if needed. The soup should simmer slowly to allow the flavors to blend perfectly.

6. Adding the potatoes: When the meat is almost cooked, add the diced potatoes. Red potatoes are ideal for soups as they don’t break down easily. Continue to simmer the soup for 12-15 minutes, until the potatoes are tender but still hold their shape.

7. Finishing the soup: Once the potatoes are ready, add the sour cream and mix well. Season with salt, pepper, and magic borscht to taste. The magic borscht will add a pleasant acidity that balances the rich flavors of the bacon.

8. Serving: The soup is served hot, with freshly chopped herbs (I personally recommend using tarragon, but you can also choose parsley or dill, depending on your preferences). You can pair it with a slice of fresh bread or polenta for a truly satisfying meal.

Practical tips:

- Choosing ingredients: Choose fresh, seasonal vegetables for a more intense flavor. Red potatoes are the best choice as they hold their shape and texture.
- Variations: You can also add other vegetables, such as zucchini or green beans, for a heartier soup. Additionally, if you like a spicier taste, you can add a finely chopped hot pepper.
- Storage: Potato soup with smoked bacon keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, being careful not to boil it again to prevent the potatoes from breaking down.

Nutritional information (per serving, approximately):

- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 15 g
- Fat: 18 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 5 g

Potato soup with smoked bacon is not only a delicious dish but also a healthy choice, rich in vitamins and minerals. It will provide you with the necessary energy throughout the day and bring a touch of comfort on cooler days.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of meat?
- Of course! You can use fresh pork, chicken, or even turkey smoked meats, depending on your preferences.

2. How can I make the soup easier to digest?
- You can reduce the amount of sour cream or use a light version. You can also avoid adding Delikat.

3. What other recipes go well with this soup?
- A fresh green salad or pickled cabbage salad can be excellent accompaniments. Additionally, a refreshing drink, such as fruit compote, will pair perfectly.

4. How can I enhance the flavor of the soup?
- Use fresh herbs, such as lovage or dill, added at the end, for an extra touch of freshness.

I invite you to try this potato soup with smoked bacon recipe and enjoy every bite! Happy cooking!

 Ingredients: For this soup, we need: a few large potatoes (about 1 kg), half a red bell pepper, a piece of celery root, a stalk of celery (leaves and stem), a parsley root, a large onion, a large carrot, a sprig of green or preserved tarragon, 300 ml of sour cream, salt, pepper, magic bors for souring, a teaspoon of vegetable seasoning, a tablespoon of oil.