Discover the authentic Romanian recipe for Ciorbă de Burtă, a classic sour tripe soup renowned for its tangy flavor from vinegar and a robust garlic kick. This traditional dish is often served with a dollop of sour cream and a side of garlic sauce, making it a comforting and flavorful meal. Perfect for those who enjoy rich, savory soups with a hint of sourness. Follow our step-by-step guide to create this Romanian favorite at home!

Ingredients:

- 1 kg beef tripe, cleaned and pre-cooked

- 500 g beef bones (for stock)

- 1 onion, finely chopped

- 2 carrots, peeled and diced

- 2 celery stalks, diced

- 6 cloves garlic, minced

- 200 ml white vinegar

- 200 ml sour cream

- 2 egg yolks

- 1 bay leaf

- 1 teaspoon dried thyme

- Salt and black pepper to taste

- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

- Fresh dill for garnish

Instructions:

Prepare the Stock:

  - In a large pot, bring 2 liters of water to a boil. Add the beef bones and cook for about 1 hour to create a rich stock. Skim off any impurities that rise to the surface. Strain the stock and set it aside.

Cook the Tripe:

  - Rinse the pre-cooked tripe thoroughly and cut it into strips.

Sauté Vegetables:

  - In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are softened.

Combine Ingredients:

  - Add the tripe, minced garlic, bay leaf, and thyme to the pot. Stir well to combine. Pour in the prepared beef stock and bring to a simmer. Cook for about 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Add Vinegar and Season:

  - Stir in the white vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes.

Prepare the Cream Mixture:

  - In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream and egg yolks. Gradually add a ladle of hot soup to the cream mixture, whisking continuously to temper it. Then slowly stir the mixture back into the soup, ensuring it is well incorporated.

Finish and Serve:

  - Heat the soup gently, but do not boil. Serve hot, garnished with fresh dill and accompanied by extra sour cream and garlic sauce on the side.

Enjoy your homemade Ciorbă de Burtă, a hearty and flavorful Romanian classic!

Nutritional Values

Beef Tripe

- Calories: 90

- Protein: 12g

- Fat: 3g

- Carbohydrates: 0g

Benefits:

- Rich in protein, which helps build and repair tissues.

- Low in calories, making it a good option for those managing their weight.

- Contains collagen, which supports joint health and skin elasticity.

Beef Bones (for Stock)

- Calories: 10-15 (varies based on fat content)

- Protein: 1-2g

- Fat: 0-1g

- Carbohydrates: 0g

Benefits:

- Bone broth is rich in minerals like calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus.

- Supports digestive health due to the gelatin content, which helps heal the gut lining.

- Boosts immune function with nutrients that support overall immune health.

Onion

- Calories: 40

- Protein: 1g

- Fat: 0.1g

- Carbohydrates: 9g

- Fiber: 1.7g

Benefits:

- Rich in antioxidants like quercetin, which helps fight inflammation.

- Supports heart health by potentially lowering blood pressure and cholesterol.

- Boosts the immune system with vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C and sulfur.

Carrots

- Calories: 41

- Protein: 0.9g

- Fat: 0.2g

- Carbohydrates: 10g

- Fiber: 2.8g

Benefits:

- High in vitamin A, which supports vision and immune function.

- Rich in antioxidants like beta-carotene, which helps protect against oxidative stress.

- Good for digestion due to high fiber content.

Celery

- Calories: 16

- Protein: 0.7g

- Fat: 0.2g

- Carbohydrates: 3g

- Fiber: 1.6g

Benefits:

- High water content helps maintain hydration.

- Contains dietary fiber that aids in digestion.

- Contains antioxidants that may reduce inflammation.

Garlic

- Calories: 149

- Protein: 6g

- Fat: 0.5g

- Carbohydrates: 33g

- Fiber: 2.1g

Benefits:

- Contains allicin, which has antimicrobial properties.

- May help reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels, supporting heart health.

- Enhances overall immune response.

White Vinegar

- Calories: 18

- Protein: 0g

- Fat: 0g

- Carbohydrates: 0g

Benefits:

- Adds tanginess without extra calories.

- Can help with digestion and blood sugar control.

- Contains antimicrobial properties that may help in preserving food.

Sour Cream

- Calories: 193

- Protein: 2.4g

- Fat: 20g

- Carbohydrates: 4g

Benefits:

- Contains fats important for absorbing fat-soluble vitamins.

- Rich in calcium, which supports bone health.

- Adds creaminess and enhances the texture and flavor of dishes.

Egg Yolks

- Calories: 322

- Protein: 16g

- Fat: 27g

- Carbohydrates: 3.6g

Benefits:

- High in nutrients like vitamins A, D, E, and B12.

- Contains choline, which supports brain function.

- Provides essential fatty acids and proteins.

Fresh Dill

- Calories: 43

- Protein: 3.5g

- Fat: 1g

- Carbohydrates: 7g

- Fiber: 2.3g

Benefits:

- Rich in vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, calcium, and iron.

- Supports digestion with its dietary fiber content.

- Contains compounds with antioxidant properties that protect against oxidative stress.

Incorporating these ingredients into your diet provides a range of nutritional benefits, from essential vitamins and minerals to health-promoting properties.