Tongue soup

Tongue soup is a savory dish that combines tradition with the rich flavors of fresh vegetables. This recipe represents not only a delicious choice for a meal but also an opportunity to explore a dish with deep roots in gastronomy. Today, I will guide you step by step in preparing this soup, so you achieve a perfect result, full of flavor and texture.

Preparation time:
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour and 40 minutes
- Number of servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 4 pieces of pork tongue (approximately 800 g)
- 1 carrot
- 1 parsley root or parsnip
- 50 g celery
- 2 onions (one white and one red)
- 2-3 bell peppers
- 1 hot pepper
- 1 tomato
- 1 potato (preferably a larger one)
- A few fresh spinach leaves
- 1 bunch of lovage
- 10 ml oil (preferably sunflower oil)
- 200 ml tomato paste
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 lemon
- 100 ml sour cream
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste

Brief history:
Tongue soup is a traditional recipe, appreciated over time for its rich taste and delicate texture. This dish has roots in the culinary culture of many communities, being considered a comforting food, perfect for chilly days. Tongue has been used for centuries in gastronomy due to its nutritional value and how it absorbs flavors from surrounding ingredients.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the tongue
The first essential step is to ensure that the pork tongue is clean. Wash the tongue well under cold running water and leave it in cold water for about 30 minutes. This process helps remove blood and impurities.

2. Boiling the tongue
After the tongue has softened, place it in a large pot with 4 liters of cold water. Add a little salt and bring to a boil. Once the water starts to boil, use a skimmer to remove the foam that forms on the surface. Reduce the heat and cover the pot with a lid, allowing the tongue to simmer on low heat for about an hour.

3. Preparing the vegetables
Meanwhile, clean and chop the vegetables. The carrot, parsley root/parsnip, and celery can be cut into larger cubes, while the onion should be finely chopped. The bell peppers can be sliced, and the tomato can be peeled and diced. The potato should be cut into larger pieces to maintain its texture in the soup.

4. Sautéing the vegetables
In a non-stick skillet, add the oil and sauté the onion for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the other vegetables: carrot, parsley root, celery, and bell peppers. After a few minutes, add the chopped spinach leaves and half of the fresh lovage. Sautéing the vegetables will enhance the flavors and add depth to the soup.

5. Combining the ingredients
When the tongue is almost tender, add the sautéed vegetable mixture to the pot with the soup. Add the tomato paste, sugar, salt, and pepper to taste. Gently stir and let it simmer on low heat with the lid on for another 20 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.

6. Finishing the dish
After the soup has cooked, remove the tongue from the pot and let it cool slightly. Peel the tongue, and then you can slice it thinly. If desired, keep some pieces of tongue in the soup and use the rest for other dishes, such as sandwiches or salads.

7. Preparing the tasty garnish
In a soup tureen, combine the egg yolk, sour cream, remaining lovage, and the juice of one lemon. Use a whisk to blend the ingredients. Then, add the hot soup and mix well.

Serving and suggestions
Tongue soup is served hot, perfect alongside a slice of fresh bread or polenta. A glass of white wine or a cold beer can splendidly complement this dish. You can also add some croutons for extra texture.

Nutritional benefits
Pork tongue is an excellent source of protein, iron, and B vitamins, essential for a balanced diet. The vegetables in the soup contribute to fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, providing a dish that is not only tasty but also nutritious.

Possible variations
- Mushroom tongue soup: Add fresh or canned mushrooms to the vegetables for a more intense flavor.
- Spicy tongue soup: Include fresh hot peppers or chili flakes for an extra kick.
- Soy cream tongue soup: For a vegan version, replace the tongue with tofu and the sour cream with a plant-based alternative.

Frequently asked questions
1. How long should I boil the tongue?
The pork tongue should be boiled for about an hour, but it is important to check if it is tender before adding the vegetables.

2. Can I use beef tongue instead of pork tongue?
Of course! Beef tongue will add a distinct flavor to the soup, but the boiling time may differ.

3. What can I do with leftover tongue?
Leftover tongue can be used in salads, sandwiches, or in various other dishes, such as stews.

This tongue soup is more than just a recipe; it is a culinary journey that brings together tradition and innovation. Every bite will transport you to a world of rich flavors and intense aromas. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 4 pieces of pork tongue (approximately 800 g) 1 carrot 1 parsley/root celery 50 g celery 2 onions 1 red onion 2-3 bell peppers 1 pepperoni 1 tomato 1 potato a few spinach leaves 1 bunch of lovage 10 ml oil 200 ml broth 1 egg yolk 1 lemon 100 ml sour cream 2 teaspoons salt, pepper