on Oct 12, 2023 This soup holds a special place in my heart ❤️, evoking a rush of nostalgia that takes me back to the treasured moments of my childhood. Each spoonful of this soup is a taste of the past – a reminder of my family in Bulgaria gathered around the kitchen table enjoying this soup freshly made by my grandma 👵 (Bapche). To her, Spanachena Supa was more than just food. It was a way to bring our family together to share hugs, laughs and create heartfelt memories that I’ll cherish forever 🫶. As I recreate this recipe now, I hope to share not just a delicious dish, but also a piece of my childhood, my family, and my Bulgarian roots 🤗.
Why You’ll Love Spinach Soup Recipe
Packed with fresh spinach, herbs 🌿, and a creamy broth, this Bulgarian Spinach Soup 🍲 it’s a wholesome meal that’s incredibly nutritious. You’ll get your daily dose of vitamins and antioxidants in every spoonful 🥄. Most importantly, the recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, making it accessible for all levels of home cooks 👩🍳. You’ll be amazed at how something so simple can be so satisfying 🤤. Whether you’re seeking a comforting bowl of soup 🍲 on a chilly evening or looking to explore the flavors of Eastern Europe, my Spinach Soup recipe will transport you my grandma’s kitchen in the Bulgarian country-side 🇧🇬 and the flavours of my childhood 😋.
How to Prepare This Spinach Soup Recipe
To make Bulgarian spinach soup, begin by thawing a bag of spinach 🌿 in the fridge overnight or leave it out on the counter to soften for about an hour before using. In a large pot over medium-high heat 🔥, add and heat up some olive oil. Next, add finely diced onion, carrots, celery, and garlic, and sauté for a few minutes until the vegetables turn translucent. Stir in the tomato paste, and then add the thawed chopped spinach 🌿. Cook for a few more minutes, adding a generous pinch of salt 🧂and rinsed rice, stirring the ingredients together. Remember that salt is to taste, so start with a teaspoon and adjust as needed once the soup is ready to avoid blandness. Now, add the tomato sauce 🥫 and unsalted vegetable broth (I use Kettle and Fire – get 20% off with my code: THEMODERNNONNA), bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low, and semi-cover with a lid, leaving an opening. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes ⏲️ or until the rice is fully cooked. Finally, remove the soup from the heat, stir in a splash of cream, and your Bulgarian spinach soup is ready to enjoy! For the traditional Bulgarian “Zastroika” method, prepare a separate bowl with one egg yolk 🥚 and a bit of milk 🥛 or plain yogurt. Take ladles of the spinach soup broth (one at a time). While whisking it into the egg and milk mixture off the heat, temper the egg. Once the egg is tempered, add this mixture back into the soup. This technique adds a creamy richness to the soup without the need for cream, giving it a distinctive Bulgarian 🇧🇬 touch.
Variations and Substitutions
This Spinach Soup Recipe is a versatile dish that allows for various substitutions and personalizations. Here are some variations and substitutions you can consider:
Leafy Greens: While spinach is traditional, you can substitute it with other leafy greens. Swiss chard, kale, or collard greens 🌿 are great options for a unique twist. Vegetable Broth: If you prefer a vegetarian or vegan version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Protein: Enhance the soup’s protein content by adding cooked chicken🍗, turkey, or even tofu cubes. Grains: Instead of rice, experiment with other grains 🌾 like quinoa , barley, or small pasta shapes like orzo. Cream Alternatives: If you’re looking for dairy-free options, use coconut milk 🥥or cashew cream. Spices and Herbs: Customize the flavor profile by adding spices like paprika, cumin, or red pepper flakes 🌶️. Fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or cilantro can also provide a burst of freshness. Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy spiciness 🥵, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños. Gluten-Free: If you’re gluten-sensitive, make sure to use gluten-free grains 🌾 or gluten-free pasta instead. Zastroika Variation: Embrace the traditional Bulgarian method by tempering the soup with an egg yolk 🥚 and milk 🥛 mixture for a rich, creamy finish.
Best Served With
Serve the soup with slices of crusty bread or a warm baguette 🥖. My No Knead Peasant Bread, Cheesy Roasted Garlic Bread or No Knead Focaccia would all be perfect for dipping into the creamy broth or mopping up the last bits of soup in your bowl. Traditionally, we serve this soup with salty crumbled Bulgarian Feta cheese 🧀 on top or a dollop of Bulgarian yogurt. If you want the full Bulgarian experience, consider adding these for added creaminess.
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