Solyanka
A hearty and flavorful Russian sour soup, Solyanka is a complex medley of meats, briny pickles, olives, and capers, simmered in a rich broth. It's renowned for its robust, tangy taste and is often considered a perfect remedy for a hangover.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Assorted cooked meats (e.g., smoked sausage, ham, beef, chicken)
- 200 g Pickled cucumbers (dill pickles)
- 100 g Black or green olives
- 3 tbsp Tomato paste
- 1 large Onion
- 2 liters Broth (beef, chicken, or vegetable)
- 1 Lemon
- 2 tbsp Capers
- 2 tbsp Fresh dill or parsley
- to taste Sour cream
- 1 tbsp Vegetable oil or butter
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the broth base: Heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil or butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it darkens slightly and becomes fragrant. This step intensifies the tomato flavor.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 2
Simmer the soup: Pour in the broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the diced pickled cucumbers, halved olives, and drained capers. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the soup simmer for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. The longer it simmers, the deeper the flavor.
⏱️ 30 minutes - 3
Add the meats: Stir in the assorted cut meats into the simmering soup. Continue to simmer for another 15-20 minutes, or until the meats are heated through and the flavors have combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary; it should be tangy and savory.
⏱️ 20 minutes - 4
Serve: Ladle the hot Solyanka into bowls. Garnish each serving with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh dill or parsley, and a lemon wedge on the side. The lemon juice adds a final burst of freshness and acidity.
⏱️ 5 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The variety of meats is key to a good Solyanka. Don't be afraid to mix different types for complexity.
- ✓Use good quality, briny pickled cucumbers for the best flavor. The brine from the pickles can also be added sparingly for extra tang.
- ✓Solyanka is often considered a perfect hangover cure due to its rich, salty, and sour profile.
- ✓Serve with a slice of lemon and a dollop of sour cream to balance the intense flavors.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Fish Solyanka: Use various types of fish and seafood instead of meat.
- Mushroom Solyanka: A vegetarian version featuring different types of mushrooms.
- Add a splash of pickle brine for extra tang.