LETTUCE SOUP WITH KAIZER AND CREAM (OR SPINACH SOUP VARIATION)
A rich and comforting Romanian soup featuring tender lettuce leaves, crispy kaizer (smoked pork), and a creamy broth finished with garlic and delicate egg omelette cubes. For a green twist, substitute lettuce with spinach to enjoy a vibrant, nutritious variation.
π Prep Time: 15 min
π³ Cook Time: 30 min
π° Yields: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 heads of lettuce (or substitute with spinach)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 150 g kaizer (smoked pork belly), sliced and scored
- 200 g sour cream
- 2 Knorr bouillon cubes
- 2 garlic cloves, crushed
- 2 eggs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- A splash of oil for sautΓ©ing
Instructions
1. Prepare the Base
- In a pot, sautΓ© chopped onion and celery in a little oil until softened.
- Add 1.5 liters of water and the bouillon cubes. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Cook the Kaizer and Omelette
- In a dry pan (no oil), fry the sliced and scored kaizer until crisp.
- Using the rendered fat, make an omelette by beating the eggs with a pinch of salt and cooking until set. Cut the omelette into small cubes.
3. Combine and Simmer
- Add the crispy kaizer to the soup and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add the cleaned and thinly sliced lettuce (or spinach) and cook for another 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Add Cream and Garlic
- Temper the sour cream by mixing it with some hot soup broth until smooth.
- Slowly stir the tempered sour cream into the soup, mixing continuously.
- Add the crushed garlic and bring the soup to a gentle boil for a few moments.
5. Finish and Serve
- Add the diced omelette cubes to the soup just before serving.
π‘ Tips
- Spinach makes a vibrant and nutritious alternative to lettuce with the same preparation.
- Using rendered fat from kaizer adds a rich smoky flavor to the soup.
- Tempering sour cream prevents curdling and ensures a silky broth.
- Fresh garlic enhances aroma and depth.
π Perfect For
- Light yet satisfying lunches or dinners
- Traditional Romanian meals with a comforting touch
- Those who enjoy creamy soups with smoky, savory notes
π Final Thoughts
This Romanian lettuce soup with kaizer and cream offers a beautiful balance of smoky pork, fresh greens, and creamy broth enriched with eggs and garlic. Simple to prepare and full of comforting flavors, itβs a perfect dish for any day. The spinach variation brings extra color and nutrients without changing the beloved taste.