This Creamy Dill Pickle Soup (Zupa Ogórkowa) is tangy, creamy, and a warming Polish favorite perfect for pickle lovers!

Introduction

Creamy Dill Pickle Soup, or Zupa Ogórkowa, is a classic Polish dish that combines the tangy flavor of dill pickles with a creamy, savory broth. Although it might sound unusual, this unique soup has an unexpectedly delicious taste that pickle fans will love. Traditionally made with potatoes, carrots, and dill pickles, the soup has a velvety texture balanced by the bright acidity of pickles. It’s hearty, warming, and an excellent way to bring Polish tradition into your home. Perfect for cold days or whenever you’re craving a comforting bowl of something out of the ordinary, this soup is sure to surprise and satisfy.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 1 cup dill pickles, grated
• 1/2 cup pickle juice (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon dried dill or 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh dill for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Sauté the onion and garlic: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Add the broth and vegetables: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, then add the diced potatoes and carrots. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add the pickles and pickle juice: Stir in the grated pickles, pickle juice, and dried or fresh dill. Allow to simmer for another 5 minutes.
4. Prepare the sour cream mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream and flour until smooth.
5. Temper the sour cream: Slowly ladle a small amount of hot soup into the sour cream mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling. Then, add the sour cream mixture back into the soup pot, stirring well to incorporate.
6. Simmer and season: Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh dill, if desired. Enjoy warm.

How to Prepare

Creamy Dill Pickle Soup comes together quickly in a single pot. First, sauté the onions and garlic to build flavor, then add the broth and vegetables, allowing them to cook until tender. Adding grated pickles and pickle juice gives the soup its signature tanginess, while the sour cream mixture adds creaminess without curdling. This soup is ready to enjoy with a sprinkle of fresh dill in under 45 minutes.

Preparation Time

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 25 minutes
• Total time: 40 minutes

Servings

This recipe serves about 4-6 people.

FAQs

1. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
   Yes, Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for sour cream, but it may change the taste slightly.
2. Is this soup very sour?
   The soup is tangy due to the pickles and pickle juice, but you can adjust the amount of pickle juice to your taste.
3. Can I add meat to this soup?
   Yes, diced ham or cooked sausage can be added for extra protein and flavor.
4. Can I freeze this soup?
   It’s best enjoyed fresh, as sour cream can separate when frozen. If freezing, omit the sour cream and add it when reheating.
5. What are the best pickles to use?
   Use traditional dill pickles for authentic flavor; avoid sweet pickles as they may alter the soup’s taste.

Conclusion

Creamy Dill Pickle Soup (Zupa Ogórkowa) is a wonderful way to explore Polish flavors in your own kitchen. With its creamy texture and distinct tang from the pickles, this soup is a delightful surprise for those who love unique dishes. Easy to make, comforting, and full of flavor, it’s perfect for cozy meals and a great way to try something new. Serve this soup with crusty bread, and enjoy a taste of Poland!