Sorrel soup with various vegetables

Lamb's Lettuce and Vegetable Soup - A Healthy and Nourishing Delight

Lamb's lettuce soup is a traditional recipe, full of vitamins and flavors, perfect for fasting days or for anyone who wants to enjoy a light and healthy meal. Lamb's lettuce, a plant with nutrient-rich green leaves, harmoniously combines with fresh vegetables to create a savory soup. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, and each bite will bring a touch of freshness and vitality.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 10 bunches of fresh lamb's lettuce (or more)
- 1 large zucchini
- 1 medium potato
- 1 carrot
- 2 bunches of green onions
- 1 bunch of green garlic
- 2 slices of celery
- 1 red bell pepper
- 2 tablespoons of rice
- 2 lemons (juice)
- 50 ml oil (preferably olive oil)
- salt, pepper (to taste)
- fresh herbs (parsley, lovage)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the lamb's lettuce: Start by washing the lamb's lettuce thoroughly. It is important to rinse it in several waters to remove any impurities. After washing the lamb's lettuce, blanch it in hot water for 1 minute. This step helps preserve its color and nutrients. After blanching, let it cool, then chop it finely.

2. Preparing the vegetables: While the lamb's lettuce cools, you can prepare the vegetables. Peel and finely chop the green onions, zucchini, potato, bell pepper, and carrot. It is important to cut the vegetables into small pieces for even cooking.

3. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the green onions, carrot, bell pepper, and celery, sautéing them for 5-7 minutes. This step will intensify the flavors and add a special taste to the soup.

4. Adding water: Once the vegetables have softened, add 2 liters of water to the pot and let it boil. When the water starts to boil, add the 2 tablespoons of rice. The rice will add consistency and make the soup more filling.

5. Adding the lamb's lettuce: After the rice has boiled for 10 minutes, add the chopped lamb's lettuce. Let everything boil for about 15-20 minutes, until the vegetables are cooked and the rice is tender.

6. Adding acidity to the soup: Towards the end, squeeze the juice from the two lemons into the soup. This step is essential to provide a note of freshness and a delicious tangy taste. Let the soup boil for another 10 minutes.

7. Seasoning: Taste the soup and add salt and pepper to your liking. Finally, add the finely chopped fresh herbs for an extra flavor.

8. Serving: Lamb's lettuce soup can be served hot or cold, often alongside green onions or green garlic for an extra kick. It is an excellent choice even on hot summer days when a refreshing soup can be a true blessing.

Practical tips:
- For an even more intense flavor, you can add a bay leaf during cooking.
- If you can't find fresh lamb's lettuce, you can use spinach or nettles as an alternative.
- Lamb's lettuce soup can be kept in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, and the taste improves the next day.
- A simple way to transform this soup into a heartier dish is by adding beans or lentils.

Nutritional benefits:
Lamb's lettuce and vegetable soup is rich in vitamins and minerals, being an excellent source of iron, vitamins A, C, and antioxidants. Additionally, it is low in calories, making it ideal for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other vegetables?
Yes, you can experiment with your favorite vegetables, such as peas or broccoli.
2. Is lamb's lettuce soup vegan?
Yes, this recipe is completely vegan and suitable for those following a plant-based diet.
3. What can I use instead of rice?
You can use quinoa, bulgur, or even short pasta for a heartier version.

Lamb's lettuce and vegetable soup is not only a tasty dish but also a recipe full of tradition that brings back memories of hearty family meals. Enjoy it alongside a slice of fresh bread or a bowl of polenta, and let yourself be carried away by the natural flavors of fresh ingredients. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 10 bunches of lamb's quarters or even more because it decreases after blanching, one larger zucchini, one potato, one carrot, 2 bunches of green onions, one bunch of green garlic, 2 slices of celery, one red bell pepper, 2 tablespoons of rice, 2 lemons, 50 ml of oil, salt, pepper, herbs (parsley, lovage)

 Tags:  fasting food fasting recipe lenten soup lamb's quarters soup