Belarusian Milk Soup

Belarusian Milk Soup Recipe - Vegetarian Soup from Belarus

Region / culture: Belarus | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Belarusian Milk Soup, a comforting and traditional dish, is a testament to the simplicity and ingenuity of Belarusian cuisine. This recipe combines the creamy richness of milk with the subtle sweetness of carrots and the satisfying texture of homemade noodles, creating a dish that is both nourishing and heartwarming. Perfect for cold days or whenever you need a gentle reminder of the comforts of home cooking, this soup is a beloved staple in Belarusian households.

History

The origins of Belarusian Milk Soup can be traced back to the rural areas of Belarus, where dairy products played a significant role in the daily diet. Historically, this soup was a practical solution for using up leftover milk and incorporating the available seasonal vegetables. Over time, it has evolved but remained a symbol of Belarusian culinary tradition, passed down through generations as a simple yet delicious meal.

Ingredients

4 cups of milk
2 cups of water
1 carrot
1 egg
1 to 1.5 cups of flour
2 tsp of sugar
1 tbsp of butter
salt

How to prepare

Boil the shredded carrot in water with a pinch of salt, then add the milk and salt. Boil again.
In a separate bowl, combine the wheat flour, egg, and a small amount of water. Mix well until the mixture reaches a creamy consistency. Slowly pour this mixture into the soup while stirring vigorously.
Just before the soup is fully cooked, add sugar and butter.

Variations

For a gluten-free version, substitute the wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Adding diced potatoes or small pasta shapes can vary the texture and bulk up the soup for a more substantial meal. For a vegan version, use plant-based milk and a vegan butter substitute, omitting the egg.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure a smooth and creamy soup, gradually temper the egg-flour mixture by adding a small amount of the hot milk before introducing it to the pot. This prevents the egg from scrambling. Constant stirring as you pour the mixture into the soup helps achieve a uniform consistency without lumps. For a richer flavor, consider using full-fat milk and adding a bay leaf during the boiling process for an aromatic depth.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Belarusian Milk Soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs like dill or parsley for a pop of color and flavor. A side of crusty bread or a light salad complements the soup well, making for a fuller meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in this recipe is the gradual integration of the egg-flour mixture into the hot milk to prevent curdling and ensure a smooth consistency. Gentle boiling and continuous stirring are crucial to achieving the perfect texture and flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're out of fresh carrots, frozen carrots can be used as a convenient alternative. In the absence of wheat flour, cornstarch mixed with a bit of water can serve as a thickener, though the texture may slightly differ.

Make Ahead Tips

While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the carrot and milk base ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the soup gently, then add the freshly prepared egg-flour mixture to ensure the best texture and taste.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the soup in a deep, wide bowl to showcase its creamy consistency and the tender pieces of carrot. A sprinkle of finely chopped herbs or a swirl of cream can add visual appeal and enhance the flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, crisp white wine or a cold glass of kefir complements the creamy and mild flavors of the Belarusian Milk Soup. For a non-alcoholic option, a herbal tea or a glass of cold milk pairs nicely.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a little milk if the soup has thickened too much upon cooling. Avoid boiling vigorously to prevent separation.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Belarusian Milk Soup contains approximately 200-250 calories, making it a relatively low-calorie option that can fit into various dietary needs, especially when served as part of a balanced meal.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Belarusian Milk Soup contains approximately 30-35 grams of carbohydrates. The primary sources are flour and milk, with a minor contribution from the carrot. This makes it a moderate carbohydrate dish, suitable as part of a balanced meal.

Fats

This soup has a relatively low fat content, with about 8-10 grams of fat per serving. The majority comes from the milk and butter. Using low-fat milk can reduce the fat content, although it may also affect the creaminess and flavor of the soup.

Proteins

Each serving of Belarusian Milk Soup provides around 10-12 grams of protein, mainly from the milk and egg. This makes it a good option for a protein-rich breakfast or light dinner, contributing to muscle repair and growth.

Vitamins and minerals

The soup is a good source of calcium and vitamin D from the milk, essential for bone health. Carrots add beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A, important for vision and immune function. Additionally, the egg contributes vitamins B2 and B12, crucial for energy metabolism and brain health.

Alergens

The primary allergens in this recipe are dairy (milk, butter) and eggs. Individuals with allergies or intolerances to these ingredients should exercise caution and consider suitable substitutions.

Summary

Belarusian Milk Soup is a balanced dish, offering a moderate amount of carbohydrates, low to moderate fat, and a good protein content. It also provides essential vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious option for a meal. However, it does contain common allergens such as dairy and eggs.

Summary

Belarusian Milk Soup is a testament to the comfort and simplicity of Belarusian cuisine. With its creamy texture, nourishing ingredients, and versatile nature, it's a dish that offers both warmth and nutrition. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or explore variations, this soup is sure to become a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy memory that I will always cherish. It was many years ago when I was just a young girl, eager to learn the art of cooking from my own grandmother. She was a wise and talented cook, and I was always amazed by the delicious dishes she would create in her kitchen.

One day, as I was helping my grandmother prepare dinner, she pulled out an old, worn recipe book from her cupboard. As she flipped through the pages, her eyes landed on a recipe for Belarusian Milk Soup. She explained to me that this was a traditional dish from her homeland, a simple yet comforting soup that was perfect for cold winter nights.

I watched intently as my grandmother gathered the ingredients for the soup - potatoes, carrots, onions, milk, and a handful of fresh dill. As she chopped and diced, I listened closely as she shared stories of her own childhood in Belarus, of the long winters spent huddled around the stove, eagerly waiting for a steaming bowl of milk soup to warm them up.

As the soup simmered on the stove, filling the kitchen with its rich aroma, my grandmother taught me the importance of patience and attention to detail in cooking. She showed me how to season the soup just right, how to stir it gently so as not to disturb the delicate balance of flavors.

When the soup was finally ready, my grandmother ladled it into bowls and garnished it with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh dill. I took my first taste, and I was immediately transported back to her homeland, to a time and a place that felt both familiar and foreign.

From that day on, Belarusian Milk Soup became a staple in our household. My grandmother would make it for us on cold, rainy days, or when we were feeling under the weather. It was a dish that brought us comfort and warmth, a reminder of our shared heritage and the bond between us.

Over the years, I have made Belarusian Milk Soup countless times, perfecting the recipe with each attempt. I have added my own personal touches to it, experimenting with different herbs and spices to make it my own.

But no matter how many times I make it, the memory of that first time will always stay with me. It was a moment of connection and learning, a passing down of traditions and knowledge from one generation to the next.

And now, as I pass on this recipe to you, my dear grandchild, I hope that you too will find joy and comfort in making Belarusian Milk Soup. May it bring you warmth and nourishment, just as it has for me and my family for generations to come.