Recipe of Solyanka

Ingredients

• 500g (about 1 lb) mixed meats (beef, pork, and sausages), diced
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
• 4-5 cups beef or chicken broth
• 2 large dill pickles, sliced
• 1/2 cup green olives, pitted and sliced
• 1/2 cup tomato paste
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons capers
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Directions

1. 1

   In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the diced mixed meats and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the meats and set them aside.

2. 2

   In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent.

3. 3

   Return the browned meats to the pot. Add the bay leaf and black peppercorns. Pour in the beef or chicken broth, ensuring it covers all the ingredients. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20-30 minutes, or until the meats are tender.

4. 4

   Stir in the sliced pickles, green olives, and tomato paste. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes.

5. 5

   Remove the bay leaf from the soup and discard it. Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste.

6. 6

   Just before serving, stir in the sour cream, capers, and fresh lemon juice. Allow the soup to heat through but avoid boiling once the sour cream is added.

7. 7

   Ladle the Solyanka into bowls, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve hot. Enjoy this comforting Russian soup!