Rustic pork soup

Peasant Pork Soup

Peasant pork soup is a dish that brings with it the warmth and comfort of a family lunch, full of flavors and traditions. This recipe is a true symbol of the gastronomy that connects us to our roots, bringing together simple yet flavorful ingredients. Preparing this soup will not only enrich our meals but also bring joy to our hearts, reminding us of the moments spent with loved ones.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 700-800 g pork shoulder
- 1 carrot
- 1 parsley root
- 1 piece of celery (about 50 g)
- 2 medium onions
- 1 green bell pepper
- 1 red bell pepper
- 100 g peas (about a generous handful)
- 100 g green beans
- 100 g chopped cabbage
- 2-3 potatoes
- 1-2 tablespoons tomato paste
- salt and pepper to taste
- juice of 1 lemon (or vinegar, to taste)
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 3-4 sprigs of fresh parsley, chopped

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: The first step is to ensure that all ingredients are ready. Wash the pork well and cut it into equal-sized cubes, about 3 cm. This will help the meat cook evenly. The vegetables should also be cleaned and cut to preference; you can choose cubes or slices, depending on texture.

2. Boiling the meat: In a large pot, add 3 liters of cold water and the pork. Add a teaspoon of salt and bring the water to a boil. It is essential to form foam on top; this should be removed with a skimmer to obtain a clear and delicious soup. Let the meat boil over medium heat for about 30 minutes.

3. Sautéing the vegetables: In a pan, pour the two tablespoons of oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Add the carrot, parsley root, celery, and chopped peppers, and continue to sauté the vegetables for another 3-4 minutes. This process will intensify the flavors and provide a rich base for the soup.

4. Combining the ingredients: After the meat has boiled for 30 minutes, add the sautéed vegetables to the pot with the meat. Mix well and let everything boil together for another 15 minutes.

5. Adding the final ingredients: Now is the time to add the peas, green beans, and chopped cabbage. Stir and let the soup boil for another 10 minutes. At this stage, add the tomato paste, adjusting the salt and pepper to taste. Be careful not to overdo it with the salt, as the tomato paste may also contain salt.

6. Acidifying the soup: Finally, turn off the heat and add the lemon juice, which will give a fresh and vibrant taste to the soup. Here you can adjust the sourness to your liking by adding more lemon juice or vinegar, depending on taste.

7. Serving: The peasant pork soup is served hot, alongside a generous portion of sour cream, which adds a delicious creaminess. For those who prefer a spicier taste, pickled or fresh chili pepper is a perfect accompaniment. Don't forget to sprinkle fresh parsley on top for an attractive appearance and an extra burst of flavor.

Useful tips:
- Choose pork with a balanced fat content to achieve a juicy and flavorful soup.
- You can also add other vegetables, such as zucchini or sweet potatoes, for interesting variations.
- If you prefer a heartier soup, you can add rice or noodles, but this will change the traditional texture of the soup.

Nutritional benefits:
This soup is rich in protein due to the pork and full of vitamins and minerals from the vegetables. Carrots are an excellent source of beta-carotene, and parsley provides antioxidants and vitamins, being a healthy ingredient that contributes to a balanced diet.

Calories:
A serving of peasant pork soup contains about 250-300 calories, depending on the proportions of the ingredients used. It is an excellent option for a hearty lunch without being too heavy.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use chicken instead of pork?
Yes, you can replace pork with chicken, but the cooking time will be shorter.

2. How can I make the soup spicier?
Add fresh chili pepper or chili flakes during cooking to intensify the flavors.

3. Is the soup good for freezing?
Yes, this soup can be frozen, but it is recommended to leave it without sour cream and add it only at serving.

4. What other dishes can it be paired with?
Peasant pork soup pairs perfectly with warm polenta or homemade bread, offering a delicious contrast of textures.

In conclusion, peasant pork soup is not just a recipe, but a gastronomic experience that evokes memories and traditions. By preparing this soup, you will not only provide a tasty meal for your family but also create unforgettable moments around the table. Savor every bite and enjoy the warmth that this dish brings!

 Ingredients: 700-800 g pork shoulder, 1 carrot, 1 parsley root, 1 piece of celery (50 g), 2 onions, 1 green bell pepper, 1 red bell pepper, 100 g peas (a good handful), 100 g green beans, 100 g chopped cabbage, 2-3 potatoes, 1-2 tablespoons of broth, salt, pepper, lemon juice/vinegar/lemon salt, 2 tablespoons of oil, 3-4 sprigs of fresh parsley.