Green Corn Soup

Romanian Green Corn Soup Recipe with Carrots and Parsley Root

Region / culture: Romania | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 2 hours | Servings: 6

Introduction

Green corn soup is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for any time of the year. Made with fresh corn, vegetables, and a creamy broth, this soup is sure to warm you up from the inside out.

History

Green corn soup has been a staple in many cultures for centuries. It is believed to have originated in Native American cuisine, where corn was a sacred and important crop. Over time, the recipe has evolved and been adapted to include various ingredients and flavors.

Ingredients

6 ears of corn
6 qt / 6 liters water
1 carrot
1 parsley root
1 onion
2 cups milk
1 tbsp butter
1 tbsp flour
1 egg
salt
0.5 tsp chopped dill

How to prepare

Using a sharp knife, carefully remove all the kernels from the corn.
In a pot, bring the ears of corn, chopped onion, and vegetables to a boil.
After boiling for one hour, strain the mixture and return the clear liquid to the pot.
Add the corn kernels to the pot and simmer on low heat for half an hour.
Strain the mixture again and separate the kernels.
Combine the strained liquid with the kernels and return to the pot.
Mix the flour with butter and milk, then add it to the pot when it comes to a boil.
Allow the mixture to boil for a few more minutes.
Remove from heat and serve with a beaten egg, salt, and chopped dill.

Variations

Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
Use coconut milk instead of dairy for a vegan version of this soup.
Spice it up with some chili powder or hot sauce for a kick of heat.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use fresh corn for the best flavor and texture in this soup.

- You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.

- For a creamier soup, you can blend some of the corn kernels with the broth before adding them back to the pot.

- Adjust the seasoning to your taste by adding more salt or herbs as needed.

Serving Suggestions

Green corn soup can be served as a starter or main dish. It pairs well with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to simmer the soup on low heat to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Strain the mixture to remove any fibrous bits for a smoother texture.

- Adjust the thickness of the soup by adding more or less flour and milk.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use frozen corn kernels if fresh corn is not available.

- Substitute vegetable broth for water for a richer flavor.

- Use olive oil instead of butter for a healthier option.

Make Ahead Tips

Green corn soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve green corn soup in individual bowls garnished with a sprinkle of chopped dill or a drizzle of olive oil. Add a slice of crusty bread on the side for a complete meal.

Pairing Recommendations

Green corn soup pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving it with a sparkling water or herbal tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover green corn soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth to thin out the soup if needed.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of green corn soup contains approximately 200 calories. This makes it a relatively low-calorie dish that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced meal.

Carbohydrates

Green corn soup is a good source of carbohydrates, with each serving containing approximately 30 grams of carbs. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body and can help keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Fats

Each serving of green corn soup contains about 5 grams of fat. The fat in this soup comes from the butter and milk used to create a creamy base. While fat is often demonized, it is an essential nutrient that helps the body absorb vitamins and minerals.

Proteins

Green corn soup is not a significant source of protein, with each serving containing about 3 grams. To increase the protein content, you can add cooked chicken or beans to the soup.

Vitamins and minerals

Green corn soup is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium. These nutrients are important for overall health and can help support a strong immune system.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (milk, butter) and eggs, which may be allergens for some individuals. Be sure to check for any allergies before serving this soup to guests.

Summary

Overall, green corn soup is a nutritious and delicious dish that can be enjoyed as a light meal or appetizer. It is rich in carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals, making it a healthy choice for any occasion.

Summary

Green corn soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture and fresh flavors, this soup is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, that I first learned how to make Green Corn Soup. I remember it like it was yesterday, the way the kitchen smelled of fresh corn and spices as my grandmother showed me how to prepare this delicious dish.

My grandmother was a wonderful cook, a true master in the kitchen. She had a knack for taking simple ingredients and turning them into something extraordinary. I remember watching her move around the kitchen with such ease and grace, a look of concentration on her face as she measured out ingredients and stirred pots on the stove.

One day, as I sat at the kitchen table doing my homework, my grandmother came over to me with a piece of paper in her hand. "I want to show you something special," she said with a twinkle in her eye. She unfolded the paper to reveal a handwritten recipe for Green Corn Soup that had been passed down through generations of our family.

As she read through the recipe, explaining each step to me in detail, I could see the love and pride in her eyes. This was a dish that had been enjoyed by our family for years, a dish that brought us together around the dinner table and filled our bellies with warmth and comfort.

I watched as my grandmother gathered the ingredients and began to prepare the soup. She showed me how to cut the corn off the cob, how to sauté the onions and garlic until they were golden brown, and how to simmer everything together in a pot until the flavors had melded together perfectly.

The aroma that filled the kitchen as the soup cooked was intoxicating. The sweet scent of fresh corn mingled with the earthy notes of cumin and chili powder, creating a symphony of flavors that made my mouth water in anticipation.

When the soup was finally ready, my grandmother ladled out steaming bowls for us to enjoy. The first spoonful was like a taste of heaven – creamy and rich, with just the right amount of spice to tickle the back of my throat.

As we sat at the table, savoring each bite of soup, my grandmother told me the story of how this recipe had come to be a part of our family tradition. She explained how it had been passed down from her own grandmother, who had learned it from a dear friend many years ago.

I listened intently as she spoke, entranced by the history and heritage that was woven into each spoonful of soup. I could feel the love and care that had gone into every pot that had been made over the years, and I knew that this recipe would always hold a special place in my heart.

From that day on, Green Corn Soup became a staple in our family meals. We would make it on special occasions and ordinary days alike, always with a sense of reverence and gratitude for the generations of women who had come before us.

As I grew older and started my own family, I continued to make Green Corn Soup for my loved ones. I taught my children how to prepare it, just as my grandmother had taught me, passing on the tradition and the love that went into each pot.

Now, as I stand in my kitchen, stirring a pot of Green Corn Soup on the stove, I can't help but smile as I think back on that day so many years ago. The recipe may have come from a piece of paper, but the memories and the love that it represents will always be a part of me, just like the flavors of the soup that bring my family together around the table.