Polish Dill Pickle Soup Recipe

Introduction

Polish Dill Pickle Soup, or “Zupa Ogórkowa,” is a beloved traditional dish from Poland known for its unique tangy flavor and hearty texture. This comforting soup is a fantastic option for those who enjoy a balance of creamy and savory profiles with a distinctive pickle kick. Whether you’re seeking a nostalgic meal or looking to explore Polish cuisine, this recipe is a must-try. Let’s dive into its history, ingredients, and step-by-step instructions to create this flavorful masterpiece.

Overview of the Recipe

Polish Dill Pickle Soup combines basic, wholesome ingredients like potatoes, carrots, onions, and dill pickles into a satisfying and nutritious meal. The tangy brine of the pickle juice is perfectly balanced with the creaminess of sour cream, creating a unique flavor profile that’s both rich and refreshing. This soup is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly versatile, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.

History and Origin of Polish Dill Pickle Soup

Zupa Ogórkowa has deep roots in Polish culinary traditions, stemming from the country’s agricultural heritage and love for preserving vegetables. Pickles have long been a staple in Polish households, particularly during winter months when fresh produce was scarce. The brine from pickles became a resourceful ingredient, lending itself to recipes like this soup. Today, this dish is celebrated as a classic comfort food and remains a popular feature in Polish kitchens and restaurants worldwide.

Ingredients for Polish Dill Pickle Soup

Here’s a complete list of the ingredients needed to make this tangy, creamy soup:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 1 cup dill pickles, grated or finely chopped
• 1 cup pickle juice (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh dill, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions: Step-by-Step Preparation

Follow these detailed instructions to prepare Polish Dill Pickle Soup:

Step 1: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

1. Place a large pot on the stove over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of butter.
2. Once the butter has melted, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic.
3. Sauté the onion and garlic for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become softened and fragrant.

Step 2: Add Broth and Vegetables

1. Pour 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth into the pot.
2. Add the diced potatoes and carrots to the broth.
3. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

Step 3: Incorporate Pickles and Pickle Juice

1. Stir in the grated or finely chopped dill pickles.
2. Add 1 cup of pickle juice, adjusting the amount to suit your taste preferences.
3. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to meld the flavors together.

Step 4: Prepare the Sour Cream Mixture

1. In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup of sour cream with 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour.
2. Whisk the mixture until smooth and free of lumps.
3. To temper the sour cream mixture and prevent curdling, slowly ladle a small amount of the hot soup into the bowl, stirring continuously.

Step 5: Thicken the Soup

1. Gradually pour the tempered sour cream mixture back into the pot of soup, stirring well to incorporate.
2. Simmer the soup for another 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

1. Ladle the soup into individual bowls.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped dill for an added burst of flavor.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy the tangy comfort of this Polish classic.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

Polish Dill Pickle Soup pairs wonderfully with simple accompaniments like fresh rye bread or a side of buttery crackers. For a complete Polish-inspired meal, consider serving the soup alongside pierogis filled with potatoes and cheese or a fresh cucumber salad. A cool glass of sparkling water with lemon complements the tangy notes of the soup.

Variations of Polish Dill Pickle Soup

This soup is incredibly versatile, and you can modify it to suit your preferences:

1. Protein Addition: Add shredded chicken or turkey for extra heartiness.
2. Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth and add chickpeas or tofu for added protein.
3. Spicy Kick: Incorporate a dash of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes for some heat.
4. Creamy Alternative: Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter yet creamy texture.
5. Extra Vegetables: Include celery, parsnips, or peas for more variety in texture and flavor.

Health Benefits of Polish Dill Pickle Soup

This soup offers several health benefits due to its wholesome ingredients:

1. Rich in Probiotics: The pickle juice contains beneficial probiotics that support gut health.
2. Low-Calorie Option: The soup is relatively low in calories, making it a great choice for a light meal.
3. High in Vitamins and Minerals: The potatoes and carrots provide essential nutrients like Vitamin A and potassium.
4. Immune Support: Garlic and fresh dill are known for their immune-boosting properties.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I freeze Polish Dill Pickle Soup?
A: Yes, this soup freezes well. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. However, consider freezing it before adding the sour cream, as dairy can separate upon reheating.

Q: What can I use as a substitute for sour cream?
A: You can use Greek yogurt or a plant-based alternative like cashew cream for a dairy-free option.

Q: How do I adjust the tanginess of the soup?
A: To make the soup less tangy, reduce the amount of pickle juice. For more tang, simply add extra pickle juice to taste.

Q: Is it possible to make this soup gluten-free?
A: Yes, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the soup.

Conclusion

Polish Dill Pickle Soup is a testament to the ingenuity of Polish cuisine, transforming simple pantry staples into a flavorful and comforting dish. Its tangy, creamy profile and versatility make it a favorite for many households. Whether served as a main course or an appetizer, this soup is sure to become a cherished addition to your recipe collection. Try it today and enjoy a taste of Poland’s rich culinary heritage!

Polish Dill Pickle Soup Recipe

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• Author: Wendy Balderas
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Polish Dill Pickle Soup is a tangy, creamy classic featuring potatoes, carrots, pickles, and sour cream. This comforting dish brings Polish culinary traditions to your table with its balance of flavors and ease of preparation. Perfect for cold days or when you crave a unique and hearty meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 1 cup dill pickles, grated or finely chopped
• 1 cup pickle juice (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh dill, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

• Sauté Onion and Garlic: Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté for 3-4 minutes until fragrant.
• Add Broth and Vegetables: Pour in broth. Add potatoes and carrots. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 15-20 minutes until tender.
• Add Pickles and Juice: Stir in pickles and pickle juice. Simmer for 5-10 minutes. Adjust juice for desired tanginess.
• Prepare Sour Cream Mix: Whisk sour cream and flour in a small bowl. Temper with hot soup to avoid curdling.
• Combine and Simmer: Stir tempered sour cream mixture into soup. Simmer for 5 minutes to thicken. Season with salt and pepper.
• Serve: Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh dill, and serve immediately.

Notes

• Adjust pickle juice quantity to control tanginess.
• Use Greek yogurt as a lighter alternative to sour cream.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute flour with cornstarch.
• Freeze before adding sour cream for better texture upon reheating.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Polish

Nutrition

• Calories: ~210
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: ~700mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 4g