This Creamy Dill Pickle Soup, or Zupa Ogórkowa, is a tangy and hearty Polish classic that’s perfect for pickle lovers! The unique combination of dill pickles, creamy broth, and tender potatoes creates a comforting and flavorful soup that’s surprisingly addictive. If you’re looking to try something different and utterly delicious, this is the recipe for you.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 large carrot, grated
- 1 cup dill pickles, grated
- ½ cup pickle juice (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup sour cream
- ¼ cup flour
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh dill, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unique and Tangy: The pickle flavor shines in a creamy, savory broth.
- Comfort Food Classic: Perfect for chilly days or when you need a bowl of comfort.
- Polish Tradition: A traditional recipe that brings a taste of Poland to your table.
- Easily Adjustable: Customize the tanginess and texture to suit your palate.
How to Make Creamy Dill Pickle Soup
1. Sauté the Aromatics
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Add Broth and Vegetables
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Add the cubed potatoes and grated carrot. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
3. Add Pickles and Juice
- Stir in the grated dill pickles and pickle juice. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Prepare the Cream Mixture
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the sour cream and flour until smooth.
- Gradually ladle a small amount of hot soup into the sour cream mixture, whisking constantly to temper it and prevent curdling.
- Slowly stir the tempered cream mixture back into the soup.
5. Simmer and Adjust
- Continue to simmer the soup for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
6. Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh dill, if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or rolls.
Serving Suggestions
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.
- Side Salad: A light green salad complements the richness of the soup.
- Polish Rye Bread: Add a traditional touch to your meal.
Tips for the Best Zupa Ogórkowa
- Pickle Lovers Unite: If you love extra tang, add more pickle juice to taste.
- Use Fresh Dill Pickles: Choose quality pickles for the best flavor—avoid overly sweet varieties.
- Don’t Rush the Tempering: Adding the cream mixture slowly prevents curdling and keeps the soup creamy.
- Add Dill for Freshness: Chopped fresh dill enhances the soup’s flavor beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth if the soup thickens too much.
- Freezing Not Recommended: The sour cream may separate when thawed and reheated.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Dill Pickle Soup (Zupa Ogórkowa) is a comforting, tangy dish that’s perfect for adventurous eaters and traditional soup lovers alike. Its unique flavors are bound to surprise and delight everyone at the table.
Give it a try and let me know how it turns out—don’t forget to share your love for this unique dish with others! 🥒✨