Indulge in the taste of Hungary with this iconic summer delight, Meggyleves. Bursting with the tangy sweetness of sour cherries, this chilled soup is a culinary masterpiece that embodies the essence of Hungarian cuisine. Traditionally served as a refreshing appetizer or dessert during the scorching summer months, Meggyleves is a symphony of flavors that tantalize the taste buds and provide a cool respite from the heat. Garnished with a dollop of sour cream and fresh mint leaves, each spoonful offers a harmonious balance of fruity tartness and creamy richness, creating a sensory experience that is both invigorating and comforting. Whether enjoyed on a sun-drenched terrace or at a festive gathering, Meggyleves is sure to leave a lasting impression with its unique blend of flavors and cultural heritage.

Here's a traditional recipe for Hungarian Meggyleves:

Ingredients:

• 1 pound (about 450g) fresh sour cherries, pitted
• 4 cups (about 950ml) water
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 cup (240ml) sour cream
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1- In a large pot, combine the pitted sour cherries, water, and cinnamon stick. Bring to a boil over medium heat.

2- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the cherries are soft and tender.

3- Remove the pot from the heat and discard the cinnamon stick. Allow the cherry mixture to cool to room temperature.

4- Once cooled, use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a blender to puree until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can skip this step or blend it to your desired consistency.

5- Return the pureed cherry mixture to the pot. Stir in the granulated sugar and lemon juice, adjusting the sweetness and tartness according to your preference. Place the pot back on the stove over low heat.

6- In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream and flour until smooth. Gradually add a ladleful of the cherry soup to the sour cream mixture, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.

7- Pour the thinned sour cream mixture into the pot of cherry soup, stirring constantly to combine. Let it simmer gently for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

8- Remove the soup from the heat and let it cool to room temperature. Then, cover and refrigerate until well chilled, preferably for at least 2-3 hours or overnight.

9- Before serving, give the soup a good stir. Ladle the cold Meggyleves into bowls and garnish with fresh mint leaves. Optionally, you can add a dollop of sour cream on top for extra richness.

10- Serve the chilled Meggyleves as a refreshing summer dish and enjoy the burst of tangy sweetness with every spoonful.

This cold sour cherry soup is a delightful way to beat the summer heat and experience the authentic flavors of Hungarian cuisine. Enjoy!

Nutritional Values:

Here are the approximate nutritional values for the main ingredients used in Hungarian Meggyleves:

Fresh Sour Cherries (1 pound / 450g):

• Calories: 260
• Carbohydrates: 66g
• Fiber: 10g
• Sugars: 50g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 1g

benefits:

• Rich in antioxidants that help fight inflammation and oxidative stress.
• Good source of vitamin C, which supports immune function and skin health.
• Contains dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and satiety.
• Provides essential nutrients like potassium and vitamin K.

Granulated Sugar (1/2 cup / 100g):

• Calories: 387
• Carbohydrates: 100g
• Sugars: 100g

benefits:

• Provides a quick source of energy.
• Enhances flavor and sweetness of dishes.
• Often used in moderation in recipes.

Sour Cream (1 cup / 240ml):

• Calories: 445
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 45g
• Saturated Fat: 28g
• Cholesterol: 110mg
• Sodium: 95mg
• Potassium: 220mg
• Calcium: 190mg
• Vitamin A: 1,200IU
• Vitamin C: 1mg

benefits:

• Contains beneficial probiotics that support gut health.
• Good source of calcium, essential for bone health.
• Provides protein for muscle repair and growth.
• Adds creaminess and richness to dishes.

All-Purpose Flour (2 tablespoons):

• Calories: 60
• Carbohydrates: 13g
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 0g

benefits:

• Provides carbohydrates, the body's primary source of energy.
• Contains small amounts of protein for tissue repair and growth.
• Used as a thickening agent in recipes.

Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon):

• Calories: 4
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Sugars: 0g

benefits:

• Rich in vitamin C, which boosts immunity and collagen production.
• Contains citric acid, which may aid digestion and promote alkalinity in the body.
• Adds acidity and brightness to dishes.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as specific brands, variations in ingredient sizes, and cooking methods. Additionally, the nutritional values are calculated per serving and may differ depending on the portion size consumed.