Hearty Solyanka Soup Recipe

This delightful Solyanka soup is a hearty and flavorful dish, perfect for bringing warmth and comfort to the table. It combines a variety of meats and tangy ingredients to create a uniquely rich flavor profile. Traditionally enjoyed in Eastern Europe, this version utilizes both fresh and preserved components, making it a wonderful mix of textures. The dish is perfect for meat lovers as it includes pork, beef, and sausages which come together beautifully with the acidity of pickles and olives. The addition of tomato paste enhances the soup's depth, making each spoonful a savory delight. It's garnished with fresh parsley and a splash of lemon juice to balance the flavors perfectly. Quick to make and deeply satisfying, this soup calls for a hearty appetite and pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty bread. Perfect for any season, whether you're seeking comfort in winter or enjoying a warm meal on a cooler summer evening. This Solyanka is something you'll want to make again and again.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 300g raw pork
• 200g smoked ham
• 200g high-quality hunter sausages
• 300g premium-quality canned beef
• 200g roasted pork
• 300g canned diced tomatoes
• 150g tomato paste
• 200g black olives with juice
• 1 lemon
• 100g parsley
• 300g onions
• 300g pickled cucumbers with juice
• 2 bay leaves

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 60 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Start by finely chopping the raw pork, ham, hunter sausages, and roasted pork into bite-sized pieces according to your preference.
2. Dice the onions and pickled cucumbers into small, uniform pieces.
3. In a large pot, heat a little oil and sauté the chopped meats (except the canned beef), pickled cucumbers, and onions until they are browned and fragrant.
4. Add the browned ingredients into a large stew pot and place it over medium heat.
5. Introduce the premium-quality canned beef to the pot, ensuring to mix it well with the sautéed meats.
6. Add the canned diced tomatoes and bay leaves to the pot.
7. Pour in water to reach your desired consistency, whether you prefer a thicker or thinner soup.
8. Bring the contents to a gentle simmer while stirring occasionally.
9. As the soup comes close to the desired consistency, pour in the juice from the pickled cucumbers and black olives, including the olives themselves.
10. Stir in the tomato paste, adjusting quantity based on desired thickness and tanginess.
11. Season with salt and ground black pepper to taste, remembering to sample as you go for balance.
12. Squeeze a small amount of lemon juice into the pot to introduce a fresh acidity level to the soup.
13. Allow the soup to continue cooking on low heat, stirring occasionally, for about 10 more minutes to let the flavors meld.
14. Just before serving, remove from heat and discard the bay leaves.
15. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish generously with fresh, chopped parsley.
16. Add a dollop of sour cream to each bowl for a creamy finish.
17. Top each serving with a lemon slice for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
18. Pair with freshly baked rustic bread for a complete, satisfying meal.
19. Serve immediately while the soup is hot and fresh.
20. Enjoy with friends and family, savoring each rich and savory bite.

Tips

• If you prefer a spicier soup, add a pinch of chili flakes to enhance the heat.
• Substitute turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this dish without sacrificing flavor.
• For a vegetarian alternative, replace meats with hearty vegetables like mushrooms and beans.

Nutrition

• Calories: 350 per serving
• Protein: 20g
• Fats: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 25g

Variations

• Add different herbs such as dill or cilantro for a varied flavor profile.
• Use green olives instead of black for a slightly different taste.
• For a smokier taste, consider adding a bit of smoked paprika.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a dollop of sour cream and fresh dill or parsley.
• Pair with a glass of chilled white wine or beer for a refreshing contrast.

Best Places

• Cafe Pushkin - Known for its authentic Russian dishes and historical ambiance. Location: 26A Tverskoy Blvd, Moscow, Russia.
• Zarivchâni - A cozy spot offering traditional Eastern European flavors. Location: Sq. Unirii, Bucharest, Romania.
• Restaurant Petrov-Vodkin - Offers a menu inspired by classic Russian cuisine. Location: Rubinsteina St, 7, St Petersburg, Russia.
• Mama's Bistro - Homey atmosphere with a nod to heritage dishes, including solyanka. Location: Rathausgasse 4, Bern, Switzerland.
• Café Central - A historical landmark serving European classics. Location: Herrengasse 14, Vienna, Austria.
• Solyanka - A trendy spot focusing on modern Eastern European flavors. Location: Torstraße 129, Berlin, Germany.
• Bistro a Table - Specializes in incorporating local flavors into international dishes. Location: 6 Jalan 17/54, Petaling Jaya, Malaysia.
• Tradition by Pascal Caffet - Offers French-Russian inspired dishes. Location: 79-81 Richmond Rd, London, UK.
• Gosti - A go-to for relaxed dining with a menu featuring authentic Russian selections. Location: Yavorskogo 11, Lviv, Ukraine.
• Siberia - Known for warm hospitality and hearty meals. Location: Thompson's Ln, Cambridge, UK.