Unusual Pepper and Mushroom Soup

The recipe for this Ukrainian dish is straightforward and is part of a two-course dinner. The basis of the pepper and mushroom soup is a delicious unusual broth.

Directions

1. Wash fresh pork tongue well in cold water. To prepare the broth, put them in cold salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for 30 minutes over low heat.
2. Then add the diced carrots and onions to the pot. After 10 minutes, remove whole tongues from the broth. Leave one tongue and cut it into small pieces. We will use the remaining languages in the second dish, which is called Tongues with Garlic Sauce.
3. So, put the chopped boiled tongue into the boiling broth. Slice bell peppers, zucchini, potatoes, and mushrooms into slices and also send to the pot.
4. Simmer the soup for another 20 minutes — salt, and pepper to taste. Add parsley and finely chopped garlic.
5. Also, use seasoning Utsho-Suneli (Fenugreek blue). This seasoning, along with garlic, will enrich the taste of the soup. Your guests will indeed say they have not eaten anything more delicious than this soup.

How Fenugreek Blue for Unusual Pepper and Mushroom Soup looks alike:

Video by Georgian Cuisine at Tamada’s Table

What you need to know before preparing:

• Each time you cook pork tongue, save the broth and make a soup out of it.
• In order for the tongue to have a pleasant taste, cook vegetables with it and use Utskho-Suneli as a seasoning.
• If you like tough meat, cook the pork tongue for no longer than an hour. If you like softer meat, cook the tongues for about 2 hours.
• Soup with tongue will appeal to those people who like the taste of liver and chicken offal.

Briefly about Utsho-Suneli

This spice with a special nutty aroma is of Georgian origin. It is dried and crushed pods and seeds of blue fenugreek. The homeland of this seasoning is considered to be the Mediterranean.

It is a big mistake to think that Utsho-Suneli and Khmeli-Suneli are one and the same. Suneli hops are a mixture of different spices in equal amounts, and Utsho Suneli is a whole spice.

Utsho-Suneli contains fatty oils, proteins, vitamins, folic, nicotinic, ascorbic acids, macro and microelements, and beta-carotene.

Utsho-Suneli is used in cooking to prepare sauces, soups, fish, and meat, as well as in medicine.

The spiciness of Utsho-Suneli is highly valued in Georgian cuisine. The most interesting thing is that in its fresh form, it has no taste, but if it is dried and fried in a pan, the spice acquires a magical aroma.

Serving variation

There are various ways to serve the Unusual Pepper and Mushroom Soup to add variety and enhance the overall dining experience. Here are a few serving variations you can consider:

Garnish with Fresh Herbs. Just before serving, sprinkle the soup with freshly chopped herbs like parsley, dill, or cilantro. This will not only add a pop of color but also impart a fresh and aromatic flavor to the soup.

Drizzle with Sour Cream or Yogurt. For a creamy and tangy twist, add a dollop of sour cream or yogurt to each serving of the soup. Swirl it gently into the hot soup to create a beautiful marbled effect.

Serve with Crusty Bread or Toasted Baguette. Accompany the soup with slices of crusty bread or toasted baguette. The bread can be used for dipping into the flavorful broth, adding texture and substance to the meal.

Add a Squeeze of Lemon or Lime Juice. Just before serving, squeeze a little fresh lemon or lime juice into the soup. This citrusy addition can brighten the flavors and provide a refreshing tang.

Sprinkle with Grated Cheese. If you enjoy cheese, sprinkle some grated cheese, such as Parmesan or cheddar, over the hot soup. The cheese will melt into the soup, creating a rich and savory element.

Pair with a Side Salad. Serve the soup alongside a fresh side salad to create a more well-rounded meal. A simple green salad with mixed lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can complement the flavors of the soup.

Remember, these serving variations are optional and can be adjusted based on personal preferences and dietary restrictions. Feel free to get creative and experiment with different toppings, condiments, or accompaniments to make the meal more enjoyable and satisfying.

Why this recipe is good for you

This Unusual Pepper and Mushroom Soup recipe is not only delicious but also offers several benefits for your well-being. Here’s why:

Nutritious Ingredients. The soup includes a variety of vegetables like bell pepper, zucchini, potatoes, carrots, and mushrooms, which are rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. These vegetables contribute to a balanced diet and provide various health benefits.

Low in Fat. The broth-based soup uses pork tongues for flavor but doesn’t contain high amounts of fatty ingredients. This makes it a healthier option compared to creamy or heavy soups, especially for those watching their fat intake.

Protein Source. The pork tongues in the soup are a good source of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting immune function, and maintaining overall health.

Seasoning with Utsho-Suneli. Utsho-Suneli, a Georgian spice made from blue fenugreek, not only adds a unique nutty aroma but also offers health benefits. It contains fatty oils, proteins, vitamins, and minerals, including folic acid, nicotinic acid, ascorbic acid, and beta-carotene. Additionally, the spiciness of Utsho-Suneli is valued in Georgian cuisine and can enhance the taste of the soup.

Flexibility in Cooking Time. Depending on your preference, you can adjust the cooking time for the pork tongues. If you prefer tender meat, cook them for about 2 hours. For a firmer texture, cook them for around 1 hour.

By enjoying this Unusual Pepper and Mushroom Soup, you can savor a flavorful dish while incorporating a variety of vegetables and a touch of healthy seasoning into your meal.

Risk of this recipe

While the Unusual Pepper and Mushroom Soup recipe can be delicious, there are a few considerations regarding health risks:

High Sodium Content. The recipe calls for adding salt to the broth, which can contribute to high sodium content in the soup. Consuming excessive amounts of sodium can increase the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and other health issues. It’s important to be mindful of your sodium intake and consider reducing the amount of salt or using low-sodium alternatives.

Fatty Meats. The use of pork tongues in the recipe provides flavor but can also introduce higher levels of fat. Consuming too much-saturated fat can contribute to high cholesterol levels and increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases. If you’re concerned about your fat intake, it may be advisable to choose leaner cuts of meat or reduce the amount of fatty meats in the recipe.

Allergic Reactions or Sensitivities. Some individuals may have allergies or sensitivities to certain ingredients in the soup, such as mushrooms or garlic. It’s important to be aware of any food allergies or intolerances you may have and adjust the recipe accordingly or choose alternative ingredients.

Personal Dietary Restrictions. The Unusual Pepper and Mushroom Soup recipe may not be suitable for individuals following specific dietary restrictions or special diets, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free. It’s essential to consider your dietary needs and make appropriate substitutions or modifications to the recipe if necessary.

As with any recipe, it’s important to balance your overall diet, consider individual health conditions or restrictions, and enjoy the soup in moderation. Consulting with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian can provide personalized advice based on your specific health needs.

Where you can buy Utsho-Suneli or its variation in the USA, UK, EU, Australia, Canada

Utsho-Suneli, or its variation, may be available in specialty stores, gourmet food shops, or online retailers that offer international or Georgian ingredients. Here are some suggestions on where you can buy Utsho-Suneli or similar spices in different regions:

USA:
– Specialty grocery stores with international sections, such as Whole Foods Market, World Market, or ethnic food stores that cater to Eastern European or Georgian cuisine.
– Online retailers like Amazon, where you can find a variety of spices and international food products.

UK:
– Specialty food stores that focus on international ingredients, such as Lupe Pintos or The Spice Shop.
– Online retailers like Amazon UK or Sous Chef, which offer a range of spices and global food products.

EU:
– Delicatessen stores, gourmet shops, or international food markets in major cities.
– Online retailers like Amazon, Etsy, or specialized spice shops that offer international ingredients.

Australia:
– Specialty stores that cater to international cuisines, such as The Essential Ingredient or Herbie’s Spices.
– Online retailers like The Spicery or The Gourmet Pantry, offer a wide selection of spices and international ingredients.

Canada:
– Specialty grocery stores or ethnic markets that carry Eastern European or international products.
– Online retailers like Amazon Canada, Spice Trekkers, or Silk Road Spice Merchant, which offer a variety of spices and international ingredients.

When searching for Utsho-Suneli or its variations, you may also come across similar spices or blends used in Georgian cuisine. These can be suitable substitutes if you cannot find the exact spice. Additionally, reaching out to local Georgian or Eastern European communities or forums may provide you with recommendations on where to find Utsho-Suneli in your specific area.