Kopustu Sriuba Su Kiauliena

Kopustu Sriuba Su Kiauliena Recipe - Traditional Lithuanian Pork and Cabbage Soup

Region / culture: Lithuania | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Kopustu Sriuba Su Kiauliena, also known as Lithuanian Cabbage Soup with Pork, is a traditional dish that is hearty and flavorful. This soup is perfect for a cold winter day or when you are craving a comforting meal.

History

This recipe has been passed down through generations in Lithuania, where cabbage is a staple ingredient in many dishes. The addition of pork adds a rich and savory flavor to the soup, making it a favorite among many Lithuanians.

Ingredients

0.25 lb (113 g) lean pork, cut into small pieces
1 tbsp butter
4 cups beef broth/bouillon
1 can tomato soup
4 cups shredded cabbage (approx 1 lb (454 g))
0.5 cup chopped onion
2 tsp salt
0.5 tsp paprika
1 bay leaf
pepper to taste
1 tbsp sherry
sour cream

How to prepare

Brown the pork in butter.
Add the remaining ingredients, except for the sour cream. Cover and simmer for approximately 30 minutes, stirring often.
Serve with a spoonful of sour cream.

Variations

Add diced potatoes for a heartier soup.
Use chicken or beef instead of pork for a different flavor.
Add carrots or celery for extra vegetables.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to brown the pork before adding the other ingredients to enhance the flavor of the soup.

- Stir the soup often while simmering to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

- Adjust the seasonings to taste, adding more salt, pepper, or paprika as needed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the pork before adding the other ingredients adds depth of flavor to the soup.

- Simmering the soup slowly allows the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use olive oil instead of butter for a healthier option.

- Use vegetable broth instead of bouillon for a vegetarian version.

Make Ahead Tips

This soup can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. It also tastes even better the next day as the flavors have had time to develop.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the soup with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve this soup with a glass of red wine or a cold beer for a delicious pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 200 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 15g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 8g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 12g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This soup is rich in Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and Iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (butter and sour cream).

Summary

Kopustu Sriuba Su Kiauliena is a nutritious and satisfying soup that is high in protein and vitamins. It is a great option for a balanced meal.

Summary

Kopustu Sriuba Su Kiauliena is a classic Lithuanian soup that is both delicious and nutritious. With a rich broth, tender pork, and hearty cabbage, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy a bowl on a chilly day for a comforting and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was a cold winter day, and I was at the local market searching for fresh ingredients to make a hearty soup. As I walked past the stalls, a sweet aroma caught my attention. I followed the scent to a small booth where an elderly woman was selling traditional Lithuanian dishes.

I struck up a conversation with her, and she told me all about her famous Kopustu Sriuba Su Kiauliena, a cabbage soup with pork. She explained how it was a staple in her family for generations, and she graciously shared the recipe with me. I couldn't wait to get home and try it out for myself.

As I gathered the ingredients and prepared the soup, I could feel the warmth and love that went into every step of the process. The rich broth simmered on the stove, filling the kitchen with a comforting aroma. I added the tender pork, cabbage, and potatoes, letting them meld together to create a delicious and nourishing meal.

When it was finally ready, I ladled the soup into bowls and sat down at the table to enjoy it. The first spoonful brought a wave of nostalgia as the flavors reminded me of my childhood in Lithuania. The savory pork, the tangy cabbage, and the hearty potatoes all combined perfectly to create a dish that was both comforting and satisfying.

I knew that this recipe would become a favorite in my own family, just as it had been in the family of the kind woman at the market. Over the years, I have made Kopustu Sriuba Su Kiauliena countless times, sharing it with friends and loved ones who have all fallen in love with its delicious flavors.

Each time I make this soup, I am transported back to that chilly day at the market when I first discovered the recipe. I can still picture the smile on the woman's face as she shared her family's culinary tradition with me. It is moments like these that remind me of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories.

As I sit here now, savoring a bowl of Kopustu Sriuba Su Kiauliena, I am grateful for the journey that led me to this recipe and for the joy it has brought to my life. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and I am so thankful for the opportunity to learn new recipes and share them with others.

I hope that this story inspires you to try new dishes and explore the rich tapestry of flavors that the world has to offer. Who knows, you may just stumble upon a recipe that becomes a beloved tradition in your own family, just like Kopustu Sriuba Su Kiauliena has in mine.