Solyanka

Dive into the rich, tangy depths of Solyanka, a hearty and flavorful Russian soup that brings together an irresistible medley of ingredients. Perfectly balanced between zesty and savory, this soup combines succulent bites of beef, pork, or mixed deli meats with the bold tang of pickled cucumbers, brine, and capers. A touch of tomato paste gives the broth a robust, velvety base, while olives, bay leaves, and peppercorns add layers of complexity. Finished with a dollop of sour cream, fresh dill, and a refreshing slice of lemon, every spoonful delivers comfort and gourmet sophistication in one bowl. Simmered to perfection in beef broth, Solyanka is an ideal choice for those looking to explore traditional Eastern European cuisine. Whether served as a cozy main course or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this beloved classic is sure to impress!

Nutriscore Rating: 60/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:60 mins

Total Time:80 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 500 grams beef, pork, or mixed deli meats
• 1 large onion
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 4 medium pickled cucumbers
• 150 milliliters pickle brine
• 150 grams olives (green or black)
• 2 tablespoons capers
• 2 pieces bay leaves
• 5 pieces black peppercorns
• 1 sliced lemon
• 3 tablespoons fresh dill
• 100 grams sour cream
• 1.5 liters beef broth
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

Step 1

Chop the meat into small, bite-sized pieces. If using deli meats, slice them into strips.

Step 2

Finely chop the onion. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté until golden brown.

Step 3

Stir in the tomato paste with the sautéed onions. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, then add the meat to the pot and stir until well mixed.

Step 4

While the meat is cooking, slice the pickled cucumbers into thin rounds.

Step 5

Pour the beef broth into the pot and bring it to a simmer.

Step 6

Add the sliced pickles, pickle brine, bay leaves, peppercorns, and salt. Simmer for 30 minutes over low heat.

Step 7

Add the olives and capers. Let the soup continue to simmer for an additional 10 minutes.

Step 8

Ensure all flavors are well melded, then remove from heat. Add freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Step 9

Serve the solyanka hot, garnished with fresh dill and a slice of lemon.

Step 10

Top each serving with a tablespoon of sour cream for added richness and tang.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2938.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2148.0

Total Fat 166.6g	0%
Saturated Fat 56.0g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 17.0g
Cholesterol 350mg	0%
Sodium 17344.9mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 66.3g	0%
Dietary Fiber 11.5g	0%
Total Sugars 35.1g
Protein 110.5g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 456.8mg	0%
Iron 18.4mg	0%
Potassium 2829.9mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 68.0%

Protein: 20.0%

Carbs: 12.0%