Czech Dill Soup with Mushrooms and Potatoes

Added by kocky, October 9, 2024
soups → vegetable-soup
Czech cuisine

zech dill soup, or Kulajda, is a classic creamy soup made with mushrooms, potatoes, fresh dill, and a hint of tang from vinegar. Ideal for a comforting meal.

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Recipe:

Ingrediens

• 1 lb (450 g) potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup fresh dill, finely chopped
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 tsp white wine vinegar
• 1/2 cup dried mushrooms (soaked) or fresh mushrooms
• 4 eggs (optional, for poaching)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/2 tsp caraway seeds (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the Mushrooms: Soak dried mushrooms in warm water for about 20 minutes, then drain and chop roughly. If using fresh mushrooms, clean and slice them.
2. Cook the Potatoes: In a large pot, bring the diced potatoes and broth to a boil. Add bay leaves and caraway seeds, and let it simmer for 15 minutes, until the potatoes are tender.
3. Make the Roux: In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat, then add the flour gradually while stirring constantly. Cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux without browning the flour.
4. Thicken the Soup: Slowly whisk the roux into the pot with the potatoes and broth. Stir continuously to avoid lumps. Let it simmer for another 10 minutes.
5. Add the Mushrooms and Dill: Stir in the mushrooms, sour cream, heavy cream, and chopped fresh dill. Simmer for 5 more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
6. Season and Add Vinegar: Season the soup with salt, pepper, and white wine vinegar. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
7. Optional Poached Eggs: Poach the eggs separately and serve one in each bowl, topped with the soup.

Nutrition Facts

Tips and Tricks

1. Use Fresh Dill: Fresh dill gives a stronger, more aromatic flavor. Add it towards the end for maximum fragrance.
2. Balancing Acidity: Adjust the amount of vinegar to your taste. Add in small amounts to avoid overpowering the dish.
3. Optional Mushrooms: Use dried porcini mushrooms for a deeper, earthier flavor. Fresh mushrooms can be substituted if dried ones aren't available.

Historical & Cultural Overview

Kulajda is a traditional Czech soup, hailing from the South Bohemian region. Its name may vary across the country, but the essential ingredients—mushrooms, potatoes, and dill—remain central. Historically, this dish was a staple during the mushroom-picking season, with many families adapting their recipes over generations

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