This Pickled Soup Is Like Medicine for Your Stomach: Very Tasty and Comforting!
Pickled soup, often referred to as "Zurek" in Polish cuisine or by similar names in other Eastern European traditions, is renowned for its tangy flavor and stomach-soothing properties. This hearty dish combines pickled vegetables, potatoes, and a rich broth to create a comforting meal that’s perfect for any time of the year. The fermentation process behind pickling adds probiotics, making it not only delicious but also excellent for digestion.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this soul-warming pickled soup at home.
Ingredients (Serves 4-6)
Base Ingredients:
- Pickled cucumbers (gherkins) – 1 ½ cups, grated or finely chopped
- Pickling brine – 1 cup (from the cucumber jar; avoid using sweetened brine)
- Potatoes – 3 medium-sized, peeled and diced
- Carrots – 2 medium-sized, grated
- Celery stalks – 2, finely chopped
- Onion – 1 large, finely chopped
- Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
- Vegetable broth or chicken stock – 6 cups
Seasoning:
- Bay leaves – 2
- Allspice berries – 3-4
- Dill (fresh or dried) – 1 tablespoon
- Salt and black pepper – to taste
Optional Additions:
- Sour cream – ½ cup (for a creamier texture)
- Smoked sausage – 1-2, sliced (optional for a meatier version)
- Flour – 1 tablespoon (to thicken the soup, if desired)
- Butter or oil – 2 tablespoons (for sautéing)
