Mammas Cold Soup Delight
This delightful cold soup is a refreshing meal perfect for warm weather. It brings together the tanginess of pickled beets and creamy notes of kefir with the crunch of fresh cucumbers and bold flavors of dill and onion greens. A fusion of hearty and light, this dish is both nourishing and satisfying. The inclusion of hearty sausage and hard-boiled eggs adds protein and texture, making it a fulfilling meal on its own. The contrast of flavors and textures makes for a unique culinary experience, balancing savory and slightly sweet elements. Perfectly seasoned with salt, pepper, and a hint of sugar, it’s sure to be a favorite. Preparation is straightforward, making it ideal for a quick yet impressive meal. This soup embodies comfort and tradition with a modern twist, offering a delightful new taste with every spoonful. It’s a dish that not only delights the palate but also offers a cozy, homely feel.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 jar of pickled beets
- 1 liter of kefir
- 3 small cucumbers
- 1 bunch of dill and onion greens
- 250 g of sausage
- 4 hard-boiled eggs
- 1 cup of water
Sauces & Spices:
- 1 tablespoon of sour cream
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- Salt
- Pepper
Preparation Time
- Total time: 20 minutes
Step-by-Step Instruction
- Start by dicing the hard-boiled eggs into small cubes, ensuring they are evenly sized for uniformity in the soup.
- Cut the cucumbers and sausage into thin strips, which will provide a complimentary texture in the final dish.
- Finely chop the onion greens and dill to release their fresh aromatic flavors.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the jar of pickled beets, including any juice, with the sliced cucumbers, sausage, and chopped greens.
- Pour in the kefir and water, which adds a creamy consistency and thins the soup to the desired texture.
- Stir in the tablespoon of sour cream, then season the mixture with salt, pepper, and a teaspoon of sugar to enhance the flavors.
- Thoroughly mix all the ingredients until they are well combined, ensuring a balanced distribution of flavors.
- Transfer the soup into a large serving bowl, adding more greens and a few egg cubes on top for a decorative touch.
- For variation, you can mix a portion of the cubed eggs directly into the soup and reserve some for garnishing.
- Refrigerate for a half-hour for a colder serving experience or serve immediately to enjoy the contrasting flavors.
- Adjust the seasoning with additional salt or pepper as per your taste preference.
- Always use fresh and high-quality ingredients to achieve the best flavor profile.
- You can substitute the sausage with other proteins like chicken or tofu to accommodate different dietary needs.
- Consider using fresh beets if pickled ones are not to your liking, though this may alter the classic taste slightly.
- Serve with a side of dark rye bread for a hearty meal.
- This soup can easily be customized, adding a personal touch to a traditional recipe.
- Chilled soup glasses can be used for an elegant presentation.
- Ensure the soup is well-mixed before serving to keep all components evenly incorporated.
- Garnishing plays a key role; add vibrant greens or a slice of boiled egg to each bowl.
- Enjoy this comforting dish with friends and family, embodying warmth and tradition in a bowl.
Tips
- Substitutes: If kefir is unavailable, buttermilk can be a good alternative.
- For Thickening: Add more sour cream if a thicker consistency is desired.
- Serving: Ensure the soup is cold for the best refreshing taste.
Nutritions
- Calories: Approximately 210 kcal per serving
- Protein: 9 g
- Fats: 12 g
- Carbohydrates: 16 g
Variations
- Vegan Option: Replace sausage with plant-based sausage and kefir with non-dairy yogurt.
- Spicy Twist: Add a dash of chili flakes for a bit of heat.
Serving Suggestions
- Best enjoyed with dark rye bread.
- Pair with a chilled glass of white wine for a gourmet experience.
- Garnish with extra fresh dill and a wedge of lemon for added zest.
Best Places
- Russ & Daughters Cafe - Offers a unique twist on traditional cold soups. Location: 127 Orchard St, New York, USA.
- Beets & Roots - Known for its fresh, healthy offerings with vibrant flavors. Location: Habersaathstraße 52, Berlin, Germany.
- Café Central - Historic café serving traditional and modern European dishes. Location: Herrengasse 14, Vienna, Austria.
- The Beetroot Café - Specializes in beet-centric dishes and refreshing soups. Location: 707 Courtenay Central, Wellington, New Zealand.
- Chez Panisse - Famed for its seasonal and ingredient-focused menu. Location: 1517 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley, USA.
- Noma - Renowned for reinventing Nordic cuisine. Location: Refshalevej 96, Copenhagen, Denmark.
- MAM: Tea & Soup House - Celebrated for its expertly crafted and comforting soups. Location: 136 Keira St, Wollongong, Australia.
- Le Comptoir de la Gastronomie - Offers gourmet twists on classic French recipes. Location: 34 Rue Montmartre, Paris, France.
- Eipic - Elegant high-end dining with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Location: 25-27 Howard St, Belfast, Northern Ireland.
- The Soup Kitchen - Cozy café with a focus on hearty, homemade soups. Location: 2 Church St, Manchester, UK.