Sour Soup with Lettuce

Authentic Romanian Sour Soup with Lettuce Recipe | Guilt-Free & Must-Try Experience

Region / culture: Romania | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 4

Introduction

Sour Soup with Lettuce is a traditional Eastern European dish that is both hearty and flavorful. This soup is a perfect combination of tangy and savory flavors, making it a popular choice for a comforting meal.

History

This recipe has been passed down through generations in Eastern European households. It is believed to have originated in Hungary and has since spread to neighboring countries such as Poland, Slovakia, and Romania. Sour Soup with Lettuce is typically enjoyed during the colder months as a warming and nourishing dish.

Ingredients

2 qt / 2 liters water
2 boston lettuces with firm cores
1 carrot
1 parsley root
1 large onion
1 garlic clove (optional)
1 tbsp flour
2 egg yolks
2 tbsp sour cream
2 – 3 tbsp vinegar
chopped parsley
salt

Omelette

5 oz / 150 g smoked bacon
4 eggs
2 tbsp milk
salt

How to prepare

Finely chop the carrot, parsley root, onion, and garlic. Boil them in water for 0.5 hour.
Strain the vegetables.
In the meantime, beat the yolks with the flour, sour cream, salt, and vinegar. Gradually add the strained liquid, stirring continuously.
Set the mixture to boil and add the lettuce, cut into pieces.
Allow it to come to a boil.
For the omelette, cut the bacon into pieces, fry it, and then add it to the eggs beaten with milk and some salt.
Cut the omelette into thin strips and place them into the serving bowl. Pour the hot soup over it.
Add chopped parsley.

Variations

Add cooked chicken or pork for a meatier version of the soup.
Substitute the lettuce with spinach or kale for a different flavor profile.
Add a dollop of sour cream on top of each serving for extra creaminess.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to finely chop the vegetables to ensure they cook evenly and release their flavors into the broth.

- Gradually add the strained liquid to the egg mixture to prevent curdling.

- Adjust the amount of vinegar to suit your taste preference for tanginess.

- For a thicker soup, you can add more flour to the egg mixture.

- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Sour Soup with Lettuce hot with a side of crusty bread or garlic toast for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Boiling, straining, and simmering are the main cooking techniques used in this recipe.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute the parsley root with celery root or parsnip for a similar flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the broth and vegetables ahead of time and assemble the soup just before serving for a quick and easy meal.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Sour Soup with Lettuce in a deep bowl garnished with a swirl of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this soup with a crisp white wine or a light lager beer for a refreshing accompaniment.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 250 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 15g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 12g per serving

Saturated Fat: 4g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 8g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This soup is rich in Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and Vitamin K from the vegetables and lettuce.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs and dairy (sour cream), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Sour Soup with Lettuce is a balanced meal with a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for a meal.

Summary

Sour Soup with Lettuce is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy meal. With a balance of tangy and savory flavors, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the nourishing and delicious taste of this traditional Eastern European recipe!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Sour Soup with Lettuce. It was many years ago, when I was just a young woman eager to learn new dishes and expand my culinary skills. I had always been fascinated by the art of cooking, and I was determined to try my hand at making this unique and flavorful soup.

I first learned of the recipe from a dear friend of mine, Mrs. Jenkins, who was known for her exceptional cooking skills. She had invited me over for dinner one evening, and as we sat at her dining table enjoying a delicious meal, she mentioned that she had recently come across a new recipe for Sour Soup with Lettuce that she thought I might enjoy.

As soon as she described the ingredients and the process of making the soup, I knew I had to get my hands on the recipe. Mrs. Jenkins was kind enough to share it with me, and I eagerly copied it down in my recipe book, ready to give it a try.

The next day, I gathered all the ingredients I needed and set to work in my own kitchen. The scent of the simmering broth filled the air, and I could hardly contain my excitement as I followed the instructions and watched the soup come together.

As I tasted the finished dish, I was blown away by the complex flavors and the perfect balance of sour and savory. The crisp lettuce added a refreshing crunch to each spoonful, and I knew I had stumbled upon a recipe that would become a staple in my kitchen.

I continued to make the Sour Soup with Lettuce for my family and friends, and it quickly became a favorite among all who tried it. I would often serve it at dinner parties and gatherings, and each time I received rave reviews and requests for the recipe.

Over the years, I have made some tweaks and adjustments to the original recipe, adding my own personal touch to make it truly my own. I have shared it with countless others, passing on the tradition of this delicious soup to the next generation of home cooks.

As I look back on that fateful day when I first discovered the recipe for Sour Soup with Lettuce, I am filled with gratitude for the friends and mentors who have guided me along my culinary journey. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and I am thankful for the opportunity to share my love of food with those around me.

In the end, it is not just about the ingredients or the process of making the soup, but the joy and satisfaction that come from creating something delicious and sharing it with others. I am proud to have learned this recipe and to have made it a part of my own culinary repertoire. Cooking is a gift that brings people together, and I am grateful for the memories and connections that have been forged over a steaming bowl of Sour Soup with Lettuce.