Russian cuisine is known for its unique and diverse flavors, and one popular dish that showcases this is Okroshka, a traditional Russian cold soup. This refreshing and vibrant soup is perfect for hot summer days when you crave a light and cooling meal. Made with a combination of fresh vegetables, herbs, and a tangy kefir or kvass-based broth, Okroshka offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Let’s explore the recipe and learn how to prepare this authentic Russian dish.
Russian Cold Soup (Okroshka)
Escape the summer heat with a bowl of refreshing Russian cold soup, Okroshka. This traditional dish combines crisp vegetables, boiled eggs, and aromatic herbs in a tangy and creamy broth made with kefir or kvass. The result is a light, cooling, and nutritious soup that is as delicious as it is colorful. Whether enjoyed as a starter or a main course, Okroshka is a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire, showcasing the flavors of Russian cuisine.
Equipment
- large bowl
- knife
- Cutting board
- measuring cups
- Wooden spoon
- soup bowls
Ingredients
- potatoes
- chicken
- cucumber
- boiled eggs
- raddish
- parsley
- kefir
- sour cream
- dijon mustard
- white vinegar
- salt and pepper
- ice cubes
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the diced boiled potatoes, cooked chicken or ham, diced cucumbers, hard-boiled eggs, sliced radishes, chopped dill, and parsley.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the kefir or kvass, sour cream, Dijon mustard, white vinegar or lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.
- Pour the kefir or kvass mixture over the vegetable and meat mixture. Stir gently to combine and coat all the ingredients with the creamy broth.
- Place the Okroshka in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
- When ready to serve, divide the chilled Okroshka into soup bowls.
- Add a few ice cubes to each bowl to keep the soup extra cold and refreshing.Garnish with additional fresh herbs, if desired.
- Serve the Russian cold soup, Okroshka, as a light and refreshing meal or as an appetizer.
Notes
You can customize Okroshka by adding other vegetables such as spring onions, bell peppers, or radicchio.
Traditional Russian kvass, a fermented beverage made from rye bread, is commonly used as the base for Okroshka. If kvass is not available, kefir or a combination of kefir and sparkling water can be used as a substitute.
Feel free to adjust the ingredient quantities and seasonings according to your taste preferences.
Okroshka is best enjoyed fresh and chilled, so it is recommended to consume it on the same day it is prepared.
Nutrition
Serving: 800g
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