Cold Cherry Soup

Cold Cherry Soup Recipe from Hungary

Region / culture: Hungary | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 10-15 minutes | Servings: 4-6

Introduction

Cold cherry soup is a refreshing and unique dish that is perfect for hot summer days. This soup combines the sweetness of cherries with a hint of sour cream to create a delicious and creamy treat.

History

Cold cherry soup has its origins in Eastern European cuisine, particularly in countries like Hungary and Poland. It is often served as a dessert or a light appetizer during the summer months when cherries are in season.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) fresh cherries
1 cup water
1 lemon slice, seeded
2 tsp cornstarch
2 tbsp sugar
3 tbsp sour cream

How to prepare

For fresh cherries, place them in a saucepan and add approximately 1.5 cups of cold water or enough to cover the cherries.
Add sugar and lemon.
For canned cherries, put the cherries with the liquid from the can into the saucepan.
Simmer the canned cherries for 5 minutes or until hot.
Simmer the fresh cherries for 10 minutes or until they have softened, simmering them with sugar and lemon.
Remove from the heat.
Stir together the cornstarch and sour cream, then pour the mixture into the hot cherries.
Return the saucepan to the heat and stir until the sour cream is well combined and the liquid has thickened.
Do not let the soup boil after the sour cream has been added.
Cool and chill the soup.
Add additional sugar and lemon juice if desired.
Serve chilled.

Variations

You can add a splash of almond extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a different flavor profile.
For a dairy-free version, you can substitute the sour cream with coconut cream or almond milk.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to pit the cherries before adding them to the soup to avoid any unwanted crunchiness.

- Adjust the amount of sugar and lemon juice to suit your taste preferences.

- For a smoother soup, you can blend the cherries before adding the sour cream mixture.

Serving Suggestions

Cold cherry soup can be served as a starter or a dessert. It pairs well with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added texture.

Cooking Techniques

Simmering the cherries with sugar and lemon helps to soften them and infuse the soup with flavor. Be sure not to let the soup boil after adding the sour cream to prevent curdling.

Ingredient Substitutions

If fresh cherries are not available, you can use canned cherries in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the sugar content accordingly.

Make Ahead Tips

Cold cherry soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the cold cherry soup with a sprig of mint or a few fresh cherries for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Cold cherry soup pairs well with a light salad or a sandwich for a complete meal. It also goes well with a glass of sparkling wine or a fruity cocktail.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover cold cherry soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of cold cherry soup contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of cold cherry soup contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of cold cherry soup contains approximately 5 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of cold cherry soup contains approximately 2 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Cold cherry soup is a good source of Vitamin C and Vitamin A, thanks to the cherries used in the recipe.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (sour cream) and may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.

Summary

Cold cherry soup is a light and refreshing dish that is relatively low in calories and fats. It is a good source of Vitamin C and can be a healthy addition to your summer menu.

Summary

Cold cherry soup is a delightful and unique dish that is perfect for summer entertaining. With its sweet and tangy flavors, this soup is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by its simplicity. It was a warm summer day, and I had been invited to a friend's house for a garden party. As I walked through the gate, the sweet aroma of cherries filled the air, and I knew I was in for a treat.

As I made my way to the backyard, I noticed a large bowl of chilled soup sitting on the table. It was a beautiful shade of pink, dotted with chunks of juicy cherries and fresh mint leaves. I had never seen anything like it before, and I couldn't resist asking my friend for the recipe.

She smiled and handed me a piece of paper with the ingredients and instructions written in elegant script. I thanked her and tucked the recipe into my purse, eager to try it out for myself.

When I got home, I gathered all the ingredients I would need: a pound of fresh cherries, a cup of water, a half cup of sugar, a pinch of salt, a splash of lemon juice, and a handful of fresh mint leaves. I got to work, pitting the cherries and simmering them with the water, sugar, and salt until they were soft and fragrant.

Once the cherries had cooled, I blended them into a smooth puree and strained out any remaining bits of skin and pulp. I added a splash of lemon juice for brightness and a handful of torn mint leaves for a fresh, herbaceous finish.

I poured the soup into a large bowl and placed it in the refrigerator to chill. As I waited for it to cool, I thought back to all the other recipes I had collected over the years. Each one held a special memory, a moment shared with a loved one or a new dish discovered on a far-flung adventure.

I remembered the spicy curry my grandmother had taught me to make, the fragrant tagine I had learned from a friend in Morocco, and the comforting chicken soup that had nursed me back to health after a bout of the flu.

Cooking had always been a way for me to connect with others, to share stories and create lasting memories. And as I stirred the cherry soup, I knew that this recipe would be no different.

When the soup had chilled, I ladled it into bowls and garnished each one with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprig of fresh mint. I took a spoonful and savored the flavors: the sweet, tart cherries, the cool, creamy texture, and the bright, minty finish.

I closed my eyes and let the taste transport me back to that sunny garden party, surrounded by friends and laughter. And in that moment, I knew that this recipe would become a new favorite, a cherished addition to my collection of culinary treasures.

As I enjoyed my bowl of cold cherry soup, I thought about all the other recipes waiting to be discovered, all the flavors and aromas yet to be experienced. And I knew that as long as I had a love for cooking and a curiosity for new tastes, my culinary journey would never truly end.