Sweet soup with lovage
Sweet soup with lovage – a warm embrace in every spoonful
In a world full of quick and complex recipes, sweet soup with lovage remains a treasure of traditional cuisine, a recipe that invites us with its delicate flavors and comforting texture. This soup, rich in fresh vegetables and succulent meat, is perfect for cool days, but also for moments when you simply want to indulge in a nourishing and comforting meal. You will discover how to prepare this delicacy step by step, with useful tips for a perfect result, as well as a few variations to delight your taste buds.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6
Necessary ingredients:
- 500 g chicken meat (back or breast, depending on preference)
- 2 carrots
- 1 parsnip
- 1 small celery
- 2 large potatoes
- 1 onion
- 100 g small pasta (spirals or small)
- 4-5 tablespoons of oil
- salt (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- lovage leaves (preferably fresh, but dried can also be used)
- fresh parsley leaves (for garnish)
Recipe history:
Sweet soup with lovage is a recipe that combines tradition and innovation, with deep roots in folk cuisine. Over time, lovage has been appreciated not only for its distinct taste but also for its nutritional benefits. This aromatic plant is known for its digestive and anti-inflammatory properties, adding a health boost to our meals.
Steps for preparation:
1. Preparing the meat:
Start by washing the chicken meat well. If using back meat, it will give the soup a richer taste. Place the meat in a pot with cold water, add a little salt, and let it boil. Don’t forget to skim the soup whenever necessary to achieve a clear and clean liquid.
2. Preparing the vegetables:
While the meat is boiling, clean the vegetables. Cut the carrots, parsnip, and celery into small cubes. These will add sweetness and flavor to your soup. In a separate pot, add 4-5 tablespoons of oil and sauté the chopped vegetables over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
3. Adding the vegetables to the soup:
When the meat is skimmed, add the sautéed vegetables to the pot with the soup, along with the whole onion. This will add a subtle flavor, but don’t forget to remove it before serving. Let it simmer on low heat, adding salt to taste.
4. Adding the potatoes:
When the vegetables are almost cooked, add the peeled and cubed potatoes. They will provide consistency to the soup and make it more nourishing.
5. Boiling the pasta:
In a separate pot, boil the small pasta according to the instructions on the package. If you don’t have small pasta, using spirals is an excellent choice, as they hold the sauce well.
6. Preparing the paprika mixture:
In a small pot, add 1 tablespoon of oil and sauté 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika. Stir quickly to prevent burning, then extinguish with 2 ladles of hot soup. Let it boil for a few moments to combine the flavors.
7. Finalizing the soup:
Add the paprika mixture to the pot with the soup, stirring well. Then, add the lovage leaves, whether fresh or dried, and cover the pot with a lid for 5 minutes. This step will allow the flavors to blend perfectly.
8. Serving:
Before serving, remove the lovage leaves and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top. This will add a touch of freshness and enhance the presentation.
Tips and serving suggestions:
For an extra flavor boost, you can add a few slices of lemon when serving or even a spoonful of sour cream if you prefer a creamier soup. Additionally, this soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of fresh bread or crunchy croutons.
Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use beef instead of chicken?
Yes, but the cooking time will be longer, and the soup will have a different taste. Make sure to skim the broth well.
2. Can I replace lovage with another aromatic herb?
Of course! Parsley or dill are excellent alternatives, although they won’t provide the same distinct flavor.
3. How can I store the soup for later consumption?
The soup keeps very well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, and in the freezer, it can last up to 3 months. Make sure to cool it down before storing.
Nutritional benefits:
This soup is rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals, thanks to the meat and fresh vegetables. Carrots and parsnip are excellent sources of beta-carotene, while lovage provides an important supply of antioxidants.
Recipe variations:
You can experiment with other vegetables, such as zucchini or bell pepper, to diversify the flavor. You can also try adding spices like thyme or rosemary for an interesting twist.
Sweet soup with lovage is not just a meal, but a culinary experience that will warm your soul. Enjoy every spoonful and let yourself be carried away by the pleasant memories that a lovingly cooked soup can bring. Bon appétit!
Ingredients: chicken meat, 2 carrots, 1 parsnip, 1 small celery, 2 large potatoes, 1 onion, 100g small pasta, lovage leaves, oil, salt, paprika, parsley leaves
