The Best Romanian Soup for a Cold Rainy Winter’s Day

As a resident of Romania, I can attest to the country's rich array of soups that perfectly suit a cold, rainy winter's day. Romanian cuisine is steeped in tradition and variety, with each region contributing its unique flavors and ingredients. Whether you're in Transylvania, Moldavia, or the southern regions, you'll find a comforting bowl of soup that will warm you from the inside out.

Exploring Romanian Soups

First, let's take a look at some of the traditional Romanian soups:

Ciorba de Fasole cu Afumatura ?i T?hon

One of my favorite soups for winter is Ciorba de fasole cu afumatura ?i t?hon—bean soup with smoked shin and tarragon. This hearty soup is perfect for a cold day, and it's something I prefer due to my Transylvanian roots. In Transylvania, tarragon is commonly used in place of dill or parsley, adding a sweet, pickled flavor to the dish. The simple and basic recipe really brings out the essence of the ingredients.

Simple Ingredients, Complex Flavors

As a side note, I often explain to Indian friends that the taste of chicken can truly be appreciated when it's cooked simply, with just salt and pepper. The flavor comes through even more clearly with home-raised chickens. This teaches us that the quality of the ingredients used is paramount. Use fresh, quality ingredients from small farms whenever possible.

Col?una?i - A Traditional Winter Delicacy

Another delightful winter soup is Col?una?i, which is basically a chicken and dill soup. However, these days it often features a mix of chicken, potatoes, and carrots. Col?una?i is not only delicious and nutritious but also a great way to welcome visitors into your home. The soup is traditionally served with a side of t?r?m—a type of fermented wheat bran—which is both delicious and full of flavor.

Sour Broth - A Quintessential Winter Soup

When it comes to winter soups, one truly stands out: Zam acr, also known as sour broth. This traditional soup is not just a comforting blend of ingredients; it's also a fantastic remedy for hangovers. The rich combination of sour cream, smoked pork, and vegetables makes it a perfect dish for cold, rainy days.

Ingredients and Preparation

Sour cream Smoked pork or ham Mixed vegetables (such as cabbage, carrots, and potatoes) Chicken or pork stock

Serve the soup hot and garnish with a drizzle of freshly squeezed lemon juice for an extra zing. It's simmered slowly to allow the flavors to meld beautifully together. Zam acr can be enjoyed in different seasons, with smoked pork being more common in winter and a mix of spring wild greens in spring.

Conclusion

From bean soup with smoked shin and tarragon to Zam acr, Romanian soups are a testament to the creativity and warmth of Romanian culture. Each soup not only warms the body but also the soul. Whether you're in Transylvania, Moldavia, or any other part of Romania, you can always rely on these comforting and flavorful bowls to see you through the coldest, rainiest days.

So, the next time you're enjoying a bowl of col?una?i or Zam acr, remember the rich history and traditions behind these delicious soups. Bon Appétit!