Cabbage Soup (Luscos)
Cabbage Soup – Luscos
Cabbage soup, known in Bistrita as Luscos, is a traditional delicacy that combines the rich flavors of the ingredients with a comforting texture and an unmistakable taste. This soup is not only easy to prepare but also brings a touch of nostalgia for those who grew up with it. In this recipe, I will guide you step by step through the preparation process, providing you with useful tips and information about the ingredients so that you can achieve a perfect result every time.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 1 kg cabbage (approximately one medium-sized cabbage)
- 1 medium onion
- 2 carrots
- 1 root of celery
- 1 root of parsley
- 1 root of celery
- 300 g smoked bacon
- 200 g smoked sausage
- 300 ml sour cream
- 2 egg yolks
- 1-2 tablespoons of oil (preferably sunflower oil)
- 1-2 tablespoons of salt
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- Fresh dill and parsley leaves (a large bunch)
Nutritional information
Cabbage soup is not only delicious but also nutritious. Cabbage is rich in vitamins C and K, while carrots provide a significant amount of beta-carotene. The bacon and smoked sausages add protein, and the sour cream offers a pleasant creaminess. A serving of soup contains approximately 300-350 calories, depending on the amount of meat and sour cream used.
Preparing the soup
1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by washing and peeling all the vegetables. Cut the cabbage into thin strips, and dice the carrots, celery, and parsley into small cubes. You can chop the onion finely.
2. Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot, add the oil and heat it over low heat. Add the grated carrot and chopped onion, allowing them to sauté for about 5 minutes until they become translucent. This will add a special flavor to the base of the soup.
3. Add the remaining vegetables: Once the onion and carrot have softened, add the diced celery and parsley, along with the pepper paste (if you have it). Let the mixture cook over low heat for another 3-4 minutes.
4. Boil the meat: Add water (about 2-3 liters, depending on how concentrated you want the soup) and add the sliced bacon and sausage. Sprinkle with salt and dried thyme, then let it boil for 20-25 minutes until the meat is almost cooked.
5. Add the cabbage: When the meat is nearly cooked, add the sliced cabbage. Let it boil for another 15-20 minutes until the cabbage becomes soft but not overly soft.
6. Prepare the sour cream: In a small bowl, mix the sour cream with the egg yolks. It is important to gradually add a ladle of hot soup to the sour cream mixture while continuously stirring. This step will prevent the sour cream from curdling when it comes into contact with high temperatures.
7. Finish the soup: Once the sour cream mixture is warm, add it to the pot with the soup and mix well. Let it boil for another 2-3 minutes, then turn off the heat.
8. Serve with greens: Finally, add the chopped dill and parsley leaves. These will add a fresh note and vibrant flavor to the soup.
Serving suggestions
Cabbage soup is served hot, with a slice of fresh bread or polenta alongside. A splash of pickled hot pepper or an extra spoonful of sour cream can add extra flavor. This soup pairs wonderfully with a glass of dry white wine or a cold beer to balance the flavors.
Possible variations
For those who prefer a vegetarian version, you can replace the meat with mushrooms, and the sour cream can be substituted with a plant-based yogurt. You can also add other seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini or green beans, to adapt the recipe to personal preferences.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use pickled cabbage?
Yes, a delicious option is to use pickled cabbage. This will add a sour taste and a distinct aroma.
2. How long can the soup be stored?
Cabbage soup keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can reheat it over low heat.
3. How can I make the soup spicier?
By adding fresh hot peppers or chili flakes during cooking, the soup will take on a spicy note.
So, get ready to enjoy a serving of this comforting soup! With each spoonful, you will feel the warmth and tradition of this recipe, perfect for family meals or to impress friends. Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: a 1 kg cabbage, a medium onion, 2 carrots, celery, parsley root, parsnip, smoked bacon and sausages, 300ml sour cream, 2 egg yolks, thyme, dill and parsley leaves.
