Zurek is a traditional Polish soup known for its unique sour taste, which comes from fermented rye flour (żurek or sourdough starter). It’s a hearty, comforting soup typically enjoyed during Easter, but it’s also popular throughout the year.
Ingredients
For the Sour Rye Starter (Żurek):
- 1 cup rye flour
- 2 cups warm water
- 2 garlic cloves, crushed
- 2 bay leaves
- 5 allspice berries
For the Soup:
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 pound Polish white sausage (biała kiełbasa), sliced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: marjoram for seasoning
- Optional: hard-boiled eggs, sliced for serving
Directions
To Make the Sour Rye Starter (3-5 days in advance):
- In a jar, mix the rye flour with warm water until well combined. Add the crushed garlic, bay leaves, and allspice berries.
- Cover the jar with a cloth and let it ferment at room temperature for 3-5 days. Stir the mixture daily. It’s ready when it has a distinct sour smell and small bubbles.
To Make the Soup:
- In a large pot, bring the broth to a boil. Add the sliced white sausage and simmer for about 10 minutes.
- In a skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until translucent and fragrant. Add this to the pot.
- Add the diced potatoes to the pot and continue to simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Stir in about 1 cup of the sour rye starter (żurek). Simmer for another 5-10 minutes. The starter will thicken and sour the soup.
- Reduce the heat and slowly stir in the sour cream. Avoid boiling the soup after adding the sour cream to prevent curdling.
- Season the soup with salt, pepper, and marjoram (if using).
- Serve the soup hot. Optionally, add a slice of hard-boiled egg to each bowl.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 250-300
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 12g
Prep and Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 3-5 days for the sour rye starter)
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Servings
- Serves: 6 people
Zurek is a quintessential Polish soup with a unique flavor profile that is both sour and savory. The creamy texture and rich ingredients make it a filling and satisfying dish, perfect for cold days or festive occasions. Enjoy this traditional Polish delicacy with your family and friends!
