Creamy Dill Pickle Soup (Zupa Ogórkowa)

Creamy Dill Pickle Soup, or Zupa Ogórkowa, is a beloved Polish comfort dish that combines the tangy flavor of dill pickles with the richness of a creamy potato-based soup. Perfect for cold days, this unique and hearty soup offers a delightful blend of savory, sour, and creamy flavors that make it unforgettable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Flavor: A tangy twist on classic potato soup.
• Comfort Food: Warm and hearty, perfect for chilly evenings.
• Easy to Make: Requires simple ingredients and minimal prep.
• Traditional Polish Dish: A taste of authentic Polish cuisine.

Ingredients

Base Ingredients

• Potatoes: Adds body and creaminess to the soup.
• Carrots: Provides a natural sweetness and vibrant color.
• Celery: Enhances the savory flavor profile.
• Onion: A classic aromatic base.

Dill Pickle Components

• Dill pickles: The star ingredient for a tangy punch.
• Pickle juice: Intensifies the pickle flavor.

Soup Broth

• Chicken or vegetable stock: Forms the hearty base.
• Bay leaf: Adds depth and subtle herbal notes.

Creamy Additions

• Sour cream: Brings a rich, creamy texture.
• All-purpose flour: Helps thicken the soup.
• Butter: Adds richness and smoothness.

Seasoning

• Fresh dill: Enhances the tangy and herbal notes.
• Salt and pepper: Adjusted to taste.

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

1. Add diced potatoes, chicken or vegetable stock, and a bay leaf.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.

Step 3: Add Dill Pickle Flavor

1. Stir in grated dill pickles and pickle juice. Simmer for another 10 minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Base

1. In a small bowl, whisk together sour cream and flour until smooth.
2. Temper the mixture by adding a ladle of hot soup to the sour cream mixture while whisking.
3. Gradually stir the tempered mixture back into the soup pot.

Step 5: Final Seasoning

1. Simmer the soup for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
2. Remove the bay leaf, season with salt, pepper, and fresh dill to taste.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional fresh dill if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or rye bread.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 250
Total Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 25mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 6g

FAQ

Q1: Can I use fresh cucumbers instead of pickles?
A1: Dill pickles are essential for the tangy flavor of this soup. Fresh cucumbers won’t provide the same taste.

Q2: Can I make this soup vegetarian?
A2: Absolutely! Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock to keep it vegetarian.

Q3: What kind of pickles work best?
A3: Traditional dill pickles are recommended. Avoid sweet pickles or bread-and-butter pickles.

Q4: Can I freeze this soup?
A4: Yes, but leave out the sour cream before freezing. Add it when reheating for the best texture.

Q5: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
A5: Yes, Greek yogurt works well as a healthier alternative.

Q6: How do I make it gluten-free?
A6: Use a gluten-free flour or cornstarch as a thickener. Ensure your pickles and stock are gluten-free too.

Q7: What can I serve with this soup?
A7: Crusty bread, rye bread, or even pierogi are excellent side dishes.

Q8: How long does this soup last in the fridge?
A8: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Q9: Can I add meat to this soup?
A9: Yes, diced cooked ham or sausage can be a tasty addition for a heartier version.

Q10: How can I make it spicier?
A10: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño for a spicy kick.

Enjoy the comforting and tangy flavors of this classic Creamy Dill Pickle Soup, perfect for any occasion!

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