Slovak Christmas Soup

Slovak Christmas Soup Recipe - Authentic Flavors and Spices from Slovakia

Region / culture: Slovakia | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Slovak Christmas Soup is a traditional dish enjoyed during the holiday season in Slovakia. This hearty and flavorful soup is made with mushrooms, sauerkraut, and a creamy milk base. It is a comforting and delicious dish that is perfect for warming up on a cold winter day.

History

Slovak Christmas Soup has been a staple in Slovakian households for generations. It is often served as part of the Christmas Eve dinner, which is a meatless meal traditionally enjoyed before the midnight mass. The combination of mushrooms and sauerkraut in this soup reflects the traditional ingredients that are abundant in Slovakia during the winter months.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) mushrooms
1 tbsp butter
0.5 lb (227 g) sauerkraut
2 tbsp shortening
2 tbsp onions, chopped fine
2 tbsp flour
1 qt (946 ml) milk
paprika (to garnish)

How to prepare

Wash the mushrooms thoroughly and cut them into small pieces. Cook them in 2 qt (1.89 liters) of water for 30 minutes. Then, add sauerkraut and cook for another 15 minutes. In a saucepan, melt 2 tbsp of shortening. Add flour and lightly brown it while stirring constantly. Gradually pour in the milk and cook until the mixture becomes smooth. Add this mixture to the mushrooms and sauerkraut. Fry the onion in a tablespoon of butter until lightly browned, then pour it into the soup. Cook everything together for a minute and season with salt to taste. Sprinkle paprika over the soup before serving.
Makes 6 servings.

Variations

Add cooked barley or rice for a heartier soup.
Use vegetable broth instead of water for a vegetarian version.
Add cooked diced potatoes for extra texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to thoroughly wash the mushrooms before cutting them into small pieces.

- Cooking the mushrooms in water before adding the sauerkraut helps to infuse the broth with a rich mushroom flavor.

- Browning the flour in the shortening before adding the milk helps to create a smooth and creamy base for the soup.

- Garnish the soup with paprika before serving for a pop of color and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Slovak Christmas Soup can be served as a starter or as a main dish. It pairs well with crusty bread or a side salad.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the flour in the shortening helps to create a roux that thickens the soup.

- Cooking the mushrooms in water before adding the sauerkraut helps to infuse the broth with flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable shortening or oil instead of butter.

- Use non-dairy milk for a dairy-free version.

Make Ahead Tips

The soup can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the soup in individual bowls garnished with a sprinkle of paprika.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Slovak Christmas Soup with a glass of white wine or a light lager.

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 before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

200 per serving

Carbohydrates

18g per serving

Fats

- Total Fat: 10g per serving

- Saturated Fat: 5g per serving

Proteins

- Protein: 8g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 10% DV

- Vitamin C: 15% DV

- Iron: 6% DV

Alergens

Contains dairy (milk) and wheat (flour)

Summary

Slovak Christmas Soup is a nutritious dish that is rich in protein and vitamins. It is a comforting and satisfying meal that is perfect for the holiday season.

Summary

Slovak Christmas Soup is a traditional and delicious dish that is perfect for the holiday season. This hearty and flavorful soup is made with mushrooms, sauerkraut, and a creamy milk base. It is a comforting and satisfying meal that is sure to warm you up on a cold winter day.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately hooked. It was a cold winter day, and my friend Maria invited me over to her house to celebrate Slovak Christmas. The smell of cinnamon and cloves filled the air as we gathered around the table, ready to feast on traditional Slovak dishes.

As we sat down to eat, Maria brought out a steaming pot of Christmas soup. The rich aroma of the broth made my mouth water, and I couldn't wait to dig in. As I took my first spoonful, I was transported back to my own childhood, when my grandmother used to make this soup for us on special occasions.

I begged Maria for the recipe, and she graciously shared it with me. She explained that the key to making a perfect Slovak Christmas soup lies in the slow simmering of the ingredients, allowing the flavors to meld together and creating a warm and comforting dish that is perfect for the holiday season.

I couldn't wait to try making it myself, so I gathered the ingredients and set to work in my own kitchen. I chopped onions, carrots, and celery, and sautéed them in a pot until they were soft and fragrant. Then, I added the beef broth, bay leaves, and a medley of spices, including cloves, allspice, and nutmeg.

As the soup simmered on the stove, I couldn't help but feel a sense of nostalgia wash over me. The familiar smells and flavors reminded me of my grandmother, who had passed down her love of cooking to me. I could almost hear her voice in my ear, guiding me through each step of the recipe and urging me to taste as I went along.

After a few hours of simmering, the soup was ready. I ladled it into bowls and garnished it with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. I couldn't wait to taste the fruits of my labor, and as I took my first spoonful, I knew that I had done justice to the recipe.

The soup was rich and flavorful, with a depth of flavor that only comes from hours of slow cooking. The tender chunks of beef melted in my mouth, and the vegetables added a hearty crunch to each bite. It was the perfect dish to warm me up on a cold winter's night, and I knew that I would be making it again and again in the years to come.

As I sat at the table, savoring each spoonful of soup, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the friends and family who had taught me the art of cooking. From my grandmother's traditional recipes to Maria's Slovak Christmas soup, each dish held a special place in my heart and reminded me of the love and warmth that food can bring to our lives.

I finished my bowl of soup with a contented sigh, feeling full and happy. As I cleaned up the kitchen and put away the leftovers, I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own family for years to come. And as I turned out the lights and headed to bed, I couldn't help but smile, knowing that I had honored my heritage and created a delicious meal that would be enjoyed for generations to come.