Discover how to make Solyanka, a traditional Russian soup known for its rich, tangy flavor. This thick and satisfying dish features a savory combination of meat, pickles, olives, and a splash of lemon, delivering a unique and hearty taste experience. Perfect for warming up on a chilly day, this recipe is a true classic of Russian cuisine.

Ingredients:

- 300g beef or pork (cut into small cubes)

- 1 onion (finely chopped)

- 2-3 cloves garlic (minced)

- 2 carrots (sliced)

- 3 pickles (diced)

- 100g olives (pitted and sliced)

- 1 lemon (juiced)

- 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes

- 1 tablespoon tomato paste

- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

- 1 bay leaf

- 1 teaspoon paprika

- 1 teaspoon dried dill

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 1 liter beef or chicken broth

- Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

Prepare the Meat: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the meat and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the meat from the pot and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add the chopped onions and garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent. Add the sliced carrots and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients: Return the meat to the pot. Add the diced pickles, olives, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste. Stir well to combine.

Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the beef or chicken broth. Add the bay leaf, paprika, dried dill, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the meat is tender.

Finish with Lemon: Stir in the lemon juice and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy hot.

This Solyanka recipe brings a taste of Russian comfort food right to your kitchen.

Nutritional Values

Beef or Pork (300g, cut into small cubes)

  - Approximately 750 calories

  - 60 grams of fat

  - 0 grams of carbohydrates

  - 60 grams of protein

Benefits: Provides high-quality protein essential for muscle growth and repair. Rich in iron and zinc, supporting energy levels and immune function.

Onion (1, finely chopped)

  - About 45 calories

  - 0.1 grams of fat

  - 11 grams of carbohydrates

  - 1 gram of protein

Benefits: Contains antioxidants and vitamins like vitamin C. Supports heart health and has anti-inflammatory properties.

Garlic (2-3 cloves, minced)

  - About 13 calories

  - 0 grams of fat

  - 3 grams of carbohydrates

  - 0.6 grams of protein

Benefits: Known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Supports cardiovascular health and immune function.

Carrots (2, sliced)

  - Approximately 80 calories

  - 0.4 grams of fat

  - 20 grams of carbohydrates

  - 2 grams of protein

Benefits: High in beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A, supporting vision and immune health. Also contains fiber for digestive health.

Pickles (3, diced)

  - About 10 calories

  - 0 grams of fat

  - 2 grams of carbohydrates

  - 0 grams of protein

Benefits: Provides a tangy flavor. Pickles can be a source of probiotics if fermented.

Olives (100g, pitted and sliced)

  - Approximately 150 calories

  - 15 grams of fat

  - 4 grams of carbohydrates

  - 1 gram of protein

Benefits: Contains healthy monounsaturated fats, which support heart health. Also provides antioxidants and vitamin E.

Lemon (1, juiced)

  - About 12 calories

  - 0 grams of fat

  - 4 grams of carbohydrates

  - 0.2 grams of protein

Benefits: High in vitamin C, which supports the immune system and skin health. Adds fresh flavor to dishes.

Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 400g)

  - About 80 calories

  - 0.5 grams of fat

  - 18 grams of carbohydrates

  - 3 grams of protein

Benefits: Rich in vitamins A and C, and antioxidants like lycopene, which supports heart health and reduces inflammation.

Tomato Paste (1 tablespoon)

  - About 13 calories

  - 0 grams of fat

  - 3 grams of carbohydrates

  - 1 gram of protein

Benefits: Concentrated source of vitamins and antioxidants from tomatoes. Adds rich flavor and color to dishes.

Vegetable Oil (2 tablespoons)

  - Approximately 240 calories

  - 28 grams of fat

  - 0 grams of carbohydrates and protein

Benefits: Provides fat for cooking and flavor. Helps with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.

Bay Leaf (1)

  - Negligible calories and macronutrients.

Benefits: Adds aromatic flavor to dishes. Contains antioxidants and may have digestive benefits.

Paprika (1 teaspoon)

  - About 6 calories

  - 0.3 grams of fat

  - 1 gram of carbohydrates

  - 0.3 grams of protein

Benefits: Adds color and flavor to dishes. Contains antioxidants and vitamins like vitamin A.

Dried Dill (1 teaspoon)

  - About 2 calories

  - 0 grams of fat

  - 0.4 grams of carbohydrates

  - 0.1 grams of protein

Benefits: Adds flavor and has antioxidant properties. Dill may support digestion and provide vitamin C.

Salt (to taste)

  - Minimal sodium intake depending on the amount used.

Benefits: Essential for fluid balance and nerve function. Should be used in moderation to avoid excessive sodium intake.

Pepper (to taste)

  - Minimal calories and macronutrients depending on the amount used.

Benefits: Adds flavor and contains antioxidants. Black pepper may support digestion and enhance nutrient absorption.

Beef or Chicken Broth (1 liter)

  - Approximately 40-60 calories

  - 2-4 grams of fat

  - 1-2 grams of carbohydrates

  - 6-8 grams of protein

Benefits: Adds flavor and nutrients. Provides some protein and minerals, and helps in hydrating and flavoring the dish.

Fresh Parsley (for garnish)

  - About 5 calories per tablespoon

  - 0.1 grams of fat

  - 1 gram of carbohydrates

  - 0.5 grams of protein

Benefits: Adds freshness and color. Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and has antioxidant properties. Supports digestion and immune health.