Today, I want to share with you some delicious recipes for “Ciorba de Perisoare,” a traditional Romanian dish loved by many. This hearty soup is perfect for warming up on a cold day and is packed with flavorful meatballs and savory broth. Whether you’re a meat lover or prefer vegetarian options, there’s a variation of this dish that will satisfy your taste buds.
Ciorbă de Perișoare Țărănească - A Hearty Delight
Let’s start with a classic version of Ciorbă de Perișoare, known as the Țărănească style. This recipe combines tender meatballs with a rich and aromatic broth, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
- 500g ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup rice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 carrot, peeled and diced
- 1 parsnip, peeled and diced
- 1 celery root, peeled and diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 6 cups beef or vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, rice, parsley, minced garlic, egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are combined.
- Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about the size of a walnut. Set aside.
- In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the diced carrot, parsnip, celery root, and red bell pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
- Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, bay leaf, dried thyme, and broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to blend together.
- Gently add the meatballs to the simmering broth and let them cook for about 20 minutes or until they are cooked through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
How to Prepare:
Ciorbă de perișoare is best served hot, and you can enjoy it on its own or with a side of crusty bread. The meatballs add a satisfying texture to the soup, while the vegetables and flavorful broth create a comforting and filling meal. It’s a perfect dish for lunch or dinner, and leftovers can be easily reheated for another delicious meal.
Preparation Time:
The preparation time for this Ciorbă de Perișoare Țărănească is approximately 25 minutes, and the cooking time is around 40 minutes. Overall, you can expect to have a warm and mouthwatering soup ready to serve in just about an hour.
Servings:
This recipe serves around 4-6 people, depending on their appetite. If you’re cooking for a larger group, simply double the ingredients to accommodate everyone’s needs.
Nutrition Facts:
It’s worth mentioning that Ciorbă de Perișoare is a nutrient-rich dish that provides a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables. The specific nutrition facts may vary depending on the ingredients used, but this soup generally offers a wholesome and satisfying meal option.
Tips:
Here are a few tips to enhance your Ciorbă de Perișoare experience:
- For extra flavor, you can add a squeeze of lemon juice to your bowl of soup before serving.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, you can sprinkle some chili flakes or paprika on top of the soup.
- If you’re vegetarian or looking for a meat-free alternative, you can substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat substitutes or even use lentils for the meatballs.
FAQs:
Here are some commonly asked questions about Ciorbă de Perișoare:
- Can I freeze the soup? Yes, you can freeze the soup. Simply let it cool completely, place it in an airtight container, and store it in the freezer. It should last for up to 3 months.
- Can I make this soup ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and chop the vegetables in advance. Store them separately in containers in the refrigerator, and when you’re ready to cook, follow the instructions starting from step 3.
- Can I use other types of meat for the meatballs? Yes, you can use ground pork, chicken, or a combination of meats if you prefer. Each variation will bring its own unique flavor profile to the dish.
Now that you have the recipe for Ciorbă de Perișoare Țărănească, it’s time to unleash your inner chef and prepare this traditional Romanian delight. Whether you follow the classic recipe or put your own spin on it, I’m sure you’ll enjoy a bowlful of this comforting soup. Bon appétit!