Hubova Polievka

Hubova Polievka Recipe - Vegetarian Mushroom Soup from Slovakia

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

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Hubova Polievka, also known as Slovak Mushroom Soup, is a traditional Slovak dish that is loved for its hearty and comforting flavors. This creamy soup is perfect for cold winter days or whenever you're in need of a warm and satisfying meal.

History

Hubova Polievka has been a staple in Slovak cuisine for generations. It is believed to have originated in rural areas where mushrooms were abundant and used as a primary ingredient in many dishes. The combination of mushrooms, potatoes, and a creamy broth has stood the test of time and continues to be a favorite among Slovak families.

Ingredients

0.25 kg of fresh mushrooms
0.5 kg of potatoes
6 whole black pepper
6 juniper berries
0.5 liter of milk
3 spoons of flour
1 spoon of oil
salt, sugar and vinegar

How to prepare

Start by washing the mushrooms and finely chopping them.
Next, add the chopped mushrooms to 3 liters of cold water along with the black pepper and juniper berries.
Cook the mixture until the mushrooms become tender, which should take around half an hour.
Just before the mushrooms are fully cooked, add oil and peeled, cubed potatoes to the soup.
Once the potatoes are cooked, thicken the soup by making a 'zatrepka' - a smooth mixture of milk and flour.
Bring the soup to a boil and season with salt, sugar, and vinegar to achieve a sweet and sour flavor according to your taste.

Variations

Add cooked chicken or beef for a heartier version of the soup.
Use different types of mushrooms, such as porcini or chanterelles, for a more complex flavor profile.
Add a splash of cream at the end for a richer and creamier soup.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to wash the mushrooms thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris before chopping them.

- Cooking the mushrooms in cold water helps to infuse the broth with their earthy flavor.

- Adding a 'zatrepka' (mixture of milk and flour) at the end helps to thicken the soup and give it a creamy texture.

- Adjust the seasoning of salt, sugar, and vinegar to suit your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Hubova Polievka is best served hot with a side of fresh bread or croutons. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for added flavor and color.

Cooking Techniques

Simmering the mushrooms in cold water helps to extract their flavor without overcooking them.

- Thickening the soup with a 'zatrepka' helps to create a creamy texture without the need for heavy cream.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable broth instead of water for a richer flavor.

- Substitute almond or coconut milk for a dairy-free version of the soup.

Make Ahead Tips

Hubova Polievka can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Hubova Polievka in individual bowls garnished with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of paprika for a colorful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Hubova Polievka pairs well with a crisp green salad or a side of roasted vegetables. A glass of white wine or a light lager complements the flavors of the soup.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

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

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Hubova Polievka contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Hubova Polievka contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Hubova Polievka contains approximately 8 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Hubova Polievka contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Hubova Polievka is a good source of vitamin D, potassium, and iron.

Alergens

Hubova Polievka contains dairy (milk) and gluten (flour).

Summary

Hubova Polievka is a nutritious and satisfying soup that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy choice for a meal.

Summary

Hubova Polievka is a classic Slovak Mushroom Soup that is both delicious and nutritious. With its creamy texture and earthy flavors, it is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this comforting soup on a cold day or whenever you're in need of a warm and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for Hubova Polievka. It was a cold winter day and I was looking through an old cookbook that belonged to my great-grandmother. The pages were yellowed with age and the writing was faded, but as soon as I read the ingredients and instructions for this Slovakian mushroom soup, I knew I had to try it.

I had always loved cooking, ever since I was a little girl helping my own grandmother in the kitchen. She was a master in the art of making soups and stews, and I had learned so much from her over the years. But Hubova Polievka was something new and intriguing to me. I had never tasted it before, let alone made it myself.

The next day, I set out to gather all the ingredients I would need for the soup. I went to the local market and carefully selected the freshest mushrooms, onions, and carrots. I also picked up a loaf of crusty bread to serve alongside the soup, just like the recipe suggested.

As I chopped and sautéed the vegetables, the kitchen filled with the rich aroma of garlic and herbs. I could feel my excitement growing with each passing minute. This was going to be something special, I just knew it.

Once the soup was simmering on the stove, I couldn't resist sneaking a taste. The flavors were incredible - earthy and savory, with a hint of sweetness from the carrots. I knew right then and there that this recipe was going to become a staple in my kitchen.

As the soup cooked, I thought back to all the recipes I had learned over the years. Some came from cookbooks, others from friends or family members. Each one had its own story, its own special place in my heart. But Hubova Polievka was different. It felt like a piece of my heritage, a connection to my Slovakian roots that I had never fully explored before.

When the soup was finally ready, I ladled it into bowls and sprinkled it with fresh parsley. I brought the steaming bowls to the table and sat down to enjoy my creation. The first spoonful brought a flood of memories rushing back - of my great-grandmother's kitchen, of the laughter and love that always seemed to accompany a good meal.

As I savored each bite, I knew that this recipe would be one that I would pass down to future generations. It was more than just a soup; it was a piece of my family history, a reminder of where I came from and the traditions that had shaped me.

And so, as I finished the last spoonful of Hubova Polievka, I felt a sense of gratitude for all the recipes that had come before it. They had taught me so much about cooking and about life itself. But this one, this simple Slovakian mushroom soup, had a special place in my heart. It was a reminder of the power of food to connect us to our past and to create lasting memories for the future. And for that, I would always be grateful.