Paradicsomleves Recipe from Hungary with Bacon and Tomato

Paradicsomleves

Paradicsomleves Recipe from Hungary with Bacon and Tomato
Region / culture: Hungary | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 6

Introduction

Paradicsomleves
Paradicsomleves

Paradicsomleves, also known as Hungarian tomato soup, is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for any time of the year. This soup is made with simple ingredients like bacon, onion, celery, and tomatoes, but the flavors come together to create a rich and flavorful broth that is sure to warm you up on a cold day.

History

Paradicsomleves has been a staple in Hungarian cuisine for centuries. It is a traditional dish that has been passed down through generations, with each family adding their own twist to the recipe. The combination of tomatoes, bacon, and vegetables creates a hearty and satisfying soup that is perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

  • 0.5 lb (227 g) of high-quality bacon, sliced and cut into small pieces
  • 1 large onion, minced
  • 1 large can (32 oz / 907 g) of crushed or puréed tomato
  • 1 can of water
  • 0.5 cup of minced celery
  • 1 tbsp of sugar
  • a few peppercorns and salt to taste

How to prepare

  1. In a soup pot, sauté the bacon and drain off the bacon fat.
  2. Sauté the minced onion and celery with the bacon bits in the pot until they become transparent.
  3. Add the can of tomatoes along with one can of water.
  4. Stir in 1 tbsp of sugar and peppercorns.
  5. Bring the soup pot to a low boil, then reduce the heat to simmer and let it simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour.
  6. The soup can contain broad noodles or rice.
  7. Precook the noodles or rice separately and add them to the soup before serving.

Variations

  • Add in some diced carrots or bell peppers for added color and flavor.
  • Use turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon for a lighter version of the soup.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to sauté the bacon until it is crispy to add a depth of flavor to the soup.

- Adding a can of water to the tomatoes helps to create a thinner broth that is perfect for soaking up with bread or noodles.

- Adjust the sugar and salt to taste, as everyone's preferences are different when it comes to seasoning.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Paradicsomleves with a side of crusty bread or a dollop of sour cream for added richness.

Cooking Techniques

Simmering the soup for an extended period of time helps to develop the flavors and create a rich and flavorful broth.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute the bacon with pancetta or ham for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Paradicsomleves can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the soup with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Paradicsomleves with a crisp green salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

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

Each serving of Paradicsomleves contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Paradicsomleves contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Paradicsomleves contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Paradicsomleves contains approximately 8 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Paradicsomleves is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as potassium and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains bacon, which may be a potential allergen for some individuals.

Summary

Paradicsomleves is a nutritious and delicious soup that is rich in vitamins and minerals. It is a great option for a comforting meal that will warm you up on a cold day.

Summary

Paradicsomleves is a classic Hungarian tomato soup that is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for the first time. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in the bustling city of Budapest. My love for cooking had already begun to blossom, and I was always on the lookout for new and exciting recipes to try out in my family's kitchen.

One day, while browsing through the local market, I came across a stand run by an elderly woman. She was selling an array of fresh produce, and among the vibrant fruits and vegetables, I spotted a small crate filled with plump, ripe tomatoes. Intrigued, I approached the woman and struck up a conversation.

As we chatted, I learned that her name was Maria, and she was a renowned cook in the neighborhood. She spoke passionately about the dish she was making that day - Paradicsomleves, a traditional Hungarian tomato soup that was bursting with flavor. My mouth watered at the thought of tasting it, and I couldn't resist asking her for the recipe.

Maria's eyes twinkled with delight as she began to share the secrets of her beloved soup with me. She explained how the key to its rich and savory taste lay in the quality of the tomatoes - they had to be sun-ripened and bursting with sweetness. She also revealed that the addition of fresh herbs like parsley and dill gave the soup a fragrant and aromatic touch.

I listened intently as Maria shared her wisdom with me, taking mental notes of each ingredient and step in the recipe. When she had finished, I thanked her profusely and hurried home to try my hand at making Paradicsomleves for the first time.

The kitchen was filled with the enticing aroma of simmering tomatoes and herbs as I followed Maria's recipe to the letter. I stirred the pot with care, tasting and adjusting the seasoning until the soup was just right. When it was finally ready, I ladled it into bowls and garnished it with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

As I took my first spoonful of the soup, I was transported back to Maria's market stand, where I had first discovered the recipe. The flavors were bold and comforting, a true testament to the passion and skill that had gone into creating it. I savored every spoonful, feeling a deep sense of satisfaction and pride in my culinary abilities.

From that day on, Paradicsomleves became a staple in my family's kitchen. I made it for special occasions and simple weeknight dinners, always with a fond remembrance of Maria and the serendipitous encounter that had brought this delicious recipe into my life. And as the years passed, I continued to hone my skills and expand my repertoire, drawing inspiration from the countless recipes and techniques I had learned along the way.

Today, as I sit in my own kitchen, surrounded by the familiar sights and smells of cooking, I am grateful for the journey that led me to Paradicsomleves. It is more than just a recipe - it is a reminder of the joy and passion that cooking brings into my life, and the connections that food can forge between people. And though Maria may have long since passed away, her legacy lives on in every pot of soup I make, a tribute to her culinary prowess and the enduring power of a good recipe.

Categories

| Bacon Recipes | Celery Recipes | Hungarian Recipes | Hungarian Soups | Onion Recipes | Tomato Soup Recipes |

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