Atra Auksta Zupa Recipe

This vibrant cold soup is a delightful blend of fresh vegetables and creamy goodness, perfect for warm weather or when you crave something refreshing. Originating from the Baltic region, this dish combines earthy beets with crisp cucumbers and creamy sour cream, creating a unique symphony of flavors. The soup is traditionally served cold, making it an ideal option for a light lunch or starter. Its beautiful pink hue is sure to brighten up any table. The combination of crunchy radishes and tender potatoes adds both texture and depth. With a harmonious mix of tangy and savory elements, this soup is both satisfying and nourishing. Easy to prepare and packed with nutrients, it's versatile enough to be enjoyed any time of the year. Best of all, it tastes even better the next day, as the flavors meld together.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 4-5 medium potatoes
• 4 medium red beets
• 3/4 long fresh cucumber
• 4 eggs
• 7-8 radishes
• 250 g doctor sausage
• Green onions (dill can be added)
• 700 ml sour cream
• 3-4 tbsp mayonnaise
• Vinegar
• Salt
• Boiled and cooled water

Preparation Time

Total Time: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Cook and Cool the Water: Begin by boiling approximately 1.7 liters of water. Allow it to cool down, as this will form the base of your soup. Adjust the water quantity based on desired soup thickness.
2. Grate the Ingredients: In a large pot or bowl, grate the boiled beets, eggs, cucumber, radishes, and sausage. Add finely chopped green onions and dill for added freshness.
3. Mix in the Creamy Ingredients: Combine the grated mixture with sour cream and mayonnaise. Stir thoroughly to ensure an even blend of flavors.
4. Add Boiled Potatoes: Chop the pre-boiled potatoes into bite-sized pieces. These should be added last, to prevent them from becoming mushy. Choose potatoes best suited for salads for a better texture.
5. Incorporate the Cooled Water: Pour the cooled, boiled water over the mixture after the sour cream and mayonnaise, to avoid curdling the cream. Mix well to reach your preferred thickness.
6. Season to Taste: Add vinegar (around 1-2 tablespoons) and salt according to your taste preference.
7. Allow to Rest: For best results, let the soup rest in the fridge overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and develop a richer taste.
8. Alternative Options: If radishes are unavailable, they can be omitted without significantly altering the taste. However, they add a subtle spiciness that enhances the soup's overall flavor.
9. Serving Suggestions: Present your soup chilled, with a garnish of fresh dill or green onions for an added burst of flavor.

Tips

• Choose the Right Potatoes: Use salad potatoes to prevent them from turning mushy.
• Add Vinegar Carefully: Start with less vinegar and adjust according to taste.
• Flexibility: The soup tastes great the next day, let it rest for more developed flavors.
• Storage Tip: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
• Grating Saves Time: Grating the ingredients speeds up preparation without affecting taste.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 220 per serving
• Protein: 7g
• Fats: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 15g

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the sausage and add more veggies like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes.
• Diet-Friendly: Use low-fat sour cream and mayonnaise for a lighter version.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Pairs Well With: Serve with rye bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
• Garnishes: Top with additional chopped dill or a dollop of sour cream for an extra touch.

Best Places

1. Piens Cafe - A popular spot for traditional Baltic dishes with a modern twist. Location: Riga, Latvia.
2. Beetroot Bistro - Known for its innovative take on traditional cold soups. Location: Vilnius, Lithuania.
3. Cafe Auksinis Avilys - This cafe offers a cozy atmosphere and delicious Eastern European fare. Location: Kaunas, Lithuania.
4. Zupa Zupa - A quaint cafe specializing in a variety of cold soups. Location: Tallinn, Estonia.
5. The Latvian Table - Offers authentic and diverse Latvian cuisine. Location: Ventspils, Latvia.
6. Soup and Stock Bar - Renowned for its diverse soup offerings including cold options. Location: Warsaw, Poland.
7. Café Giraffe - A modern cafe offering a range of creative and refreshing soups. Location: Gdańsk, Poland.
8. The Soup Spoon - A favorite for its fresh ingredients and flavorful broths. Location: Krakow, Poland.
9. Baltic Delights - This restaurant offers a comprehensive Baltic dining experience. Location: Riga, Latvia.
10. Soup City - Known for a robust selection of both hot and cold soups. Location: Vilnius, Lithuania.