SORREL SOUP

Sorrel Soup

Sorrel soup is a traditional recipe, often loved for its refreshing taste and nutritional benefits. This soup is an excellent choice for spring when sorrel is in season, and it's a wonderful way to add fresh vegetables to your daily diet. Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, sorrel helps strengthen the immune system and maintain bone health.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 400 g fresh sorrel
- 2 medium onions
- 1 egg
- 1 bunch of fresh lovage
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil (or another type of oil)
- 1 liter of water
- Lemon juice (to taste)
- Salt (to taste)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: The first step in making this soup is to handle the sorrel. Wash the leaves thoroughly to remove any impurities. Remove the thicker veins and the stems, then slice the sorrel into thin strips. This step is essential, as proper slicing helps release the flavors during cooking.

2. Boiling the onions: In a pot, add cold water and the two chopped onions. Bring to a boil over medium heat, adding a little oil and salt to enhance the flavor. The onion will add a layer of flavor to the soup.

3. Adding the sorrel: Once the onion starts to become translucent (about 5-7 minutes), add the sliced sorrel. It's important to stir well so that the sorrel softens evenly. Be careful, as the sorrel will swell and may bubble over, so keep the heat low.

4. Final boiling: Let the soup simmer on low heat, covered, for about 10-15 minutes. Sorrel cooks quickly, so watch the texture. When the leaves become tender, it's time to adjust the soup for salt and acidity.

5. Including the egg: Beat the egg in a separate bowl. Once the soup is ready, remove it from the heat and add the beaten egg, stirring quickly to avoid lumps. The egg adds creaminess and a delicious flavor.

6. Finishing with lovage: Add the freshly chopped lovage at the end to preserve its fresh aroma. This will not only enrich the taste but also add a splash of color to your soup.

7. Serving: Sorrel soup can be served hot or cold, making it perfect for any season. It can be accompanied by a slice of whole-grain bread or crunchy croutons. For an extra burst of flavor, drizzle a little lemon juice on top.

Useful tips:
- To add extra flavor, you can experiment with spices like black pepper or cumin.
- If you want a heartier soup, you can add a diced potato, cooked along with the onion.
- Instead of lovage, you can use dill or parsley, depending on your preferences.

Variations:
- If you want to turn this soup into a main dish, you can add a serving of cooked rice or quinoa to each bowl before serving.
- Another delicious variation would be to add some strips of carrot or celery for an extra nutrient boost.

Nutritional benefits:
Sorrel soup is a healthy choice, being low in calories (about 100 calories per serving) but rich in vitamins and minerals. It is an excellent source of fiber, aiding digestion and maintaining a healthy weight.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen sorrel? Yes, but the flavor will be less intense. It is recommended to use fresh sorrel for the best experience.
2. How long can sorrel soup be stored? It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
3. Is sorrel soup suitable for a diet? Yes, it is an excellent option for a balanced diet due to its low calorie content and nutrient richness.

Ideal pairings:
This soup pairs wonderfully with a fresh Mediterranean salad or a light frittata. Additionally, a glass of mineral water or herbal tea can perfectly complement the meal.

I hope this recipe inspires you to try making sorrel soup at home. It's a simple recipe, yet full of flavor and health benefits, perfect for any occasion!