Zemiakova Polievka

Zemiakova Polievka Recipe from Slovakia | Ingredients: Bouquet Garni, Mushrooms, Potatoes, Bacon, Caraway Seeds, Marjoram

Region / culture: Slovakia | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Zemiakova Polievka, also known as Slovak Potato Soup, is a traditional Slovak dish that is hearty, comforting, and full of flavor. This soup is perfect for cold winter days or when you're craving a warm and satisfying meal.

History

Zemiakova Polievka has been a staple in Slovak cuisine for generations. It is a simple and humble dish that is made with ingredients that are readily available in the region. The combination of potatoes, mushrooms, and bacon creates a rich and flavorful soup that is loved by many.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Soak the mushrooms in water overnight to soften them.
Peel and cube the potatoes. Clean and finely chop the bouquet garni. Cure the bacon.
In a large pot, bring the soaked mushrooms, potatoes, bouquet garni, bacon, caraway seeds, and marjoram to a boil in 5 cups of water.
Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
Peel the onion and garlic clove, then fry them in butter until golden brown.
Sprinkle in the flour and stir to create a roux.
Add the roux to the soup, stirring constantly. Pass the soup through a sieve.
Season with generous amounts of salt and pepper.
In a separate bowl, combine the egg yolk and sour cream. Remove the soup from heat and stir in the egg-cream mixture.
Garnish with parsley and serve.

Variations

Add diced carrots or celery for extra flavor and nutrition.
Use smoked sausage instead of bacon for a different twist on the recipe.
Garnish with fresh herbs such as dill or chives for added freshness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Soaking the mushrooms overnight will help to soften them and enhance their flavor.

- Be sure to simmer the soup on low heat to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Adding a roux to the soup will help to thicken it and give it a creamy texture.

- Season the soup generously with salt and pepper to bring out the flavors of the ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Zemiakova Polievka with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Simmering the soup on low heat will allow the flavors to develop and meld together.

- Creating a roux will help to thicken the soup and give it a creamy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable broth instead of water for a vegetarian version of the soup.

- Substitute turkey bacon for a lower-fat option.

Make Ahead Tips

Zemiakova 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

Garnish the soup with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Zemiakova Polievka with a crisp white wine or a light lager for a perfect pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

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

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 250 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 25g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 10g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 8g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This soup is rich in vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, potassium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (sour cream) and gluten (flour).

Summary

Zemiakova Polievka is a nutritious and balanced meal that provides a good source of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Zemiakova Polievka is a delicious and comforting Slovak Potato Soup that is perfect for cold winter days. This hearty soup is full of flavor and nutrients, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal for the whole family.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Zemiakova Polievka. It was a chilly autumn afternoon, and I was visiting my dear friend Katarina in her cozy kitchen. The aroma of simmering potatoes and onions filled the air, and I couldn't help but be intrigued by what she was cooking.

Katarina greeted me with a warm smile and a hug, and I immediately felt at home in her kitchen. She was a master in the art of Slovakian cuisine, and I always admired her cooking skills. As we chatted and caught up on old times, she began to tell me about the dish she was preparing – Zemiakova Polievka, a traditional Slovakian potato soup.

She explained to me that this soup was a staple in Slovakian households, especially during the colder months. It was hearty, comforting, and bursting with flavors of garlic, paprika, and fresh herbs. I was intrigued and eager to learn how to make it myself.

As Katarina guided me through the process of making the soup, I watched in awe as she effortlessly chopped vegetables, stirred the pot, and seasoned the broth to perfection. She shared with me the secret ingredient that made this soup truly special – a touch of sour cream added at the end to give it a creamy richness.

As we sat down to enjoy the soup together, I took my first spoonful and was instantly transported back to my childhood in Slovakia. The flavors were familiar and comforting, and I felt a deep sense of nostalgia wash over me. Katarina smiled at me knowingly, as if she understood the significance of this moment.

From that day on, Zemiakova Polievka became a regular dish in my own kitchen. I practiced making it over and over again, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my own tastes. I shared it with my family and friends, who all raved about how delicious it was.

Over the years, I continued to refine my recipe for Zemiakova Polievka, adding my own personal touches and experimenting with different ingredients. I learned to make it with love and care, just like Katarina had taught me.

As I grew older, I realized that this recipe was more than just a dish – it was a connection to my heritage, to my roots, and to the memories of my youth. It brought me closer to my Slovakian heritage and allowed me to share a piece of my culture with those around me.

Now, as I stand in my own kitchen, preparing a pot of Zemiakova Polievka for my grandchildren, I can't help but feel grateful for the moment I discovered this recipe. It has brought me joy, comfort, and a sense of belonging – and for that, I will always be grateful to my dear friend Katarina.