Creamy Dill Pickle Soup

“A Traditional Polish Comfort Food with a Tangy Twist!”

This Creamy Dill Pickle Soup, or Zupa Ogórkowa, is a classic Polish dish that combines the tangy flavor of pickles with hearty potatoes and a creamy broth. Perfect for cold days or when you’re craving something unique and comforting, this soup is surprisingly delicious and easy to make!

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Ingredients

For the Base:

• 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil – For sautéing.
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped – Adds sweetness and depth.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced – Infuses the soup with aromatic warmth.
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth – Forms the flavorful base.

Vegetables:

• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced – Adds heartiness to the soup.
• 2 medium carrots, grated – Provides a touch of sweetness and color.

For the Pickles:

• 1 1/2 cups dill pickles, grated – The star ingredient, adding tangy flavor.
• 1/2 cup dill pickle juice – Enhances the tanginess of the broth.

For Creaminess:

• 1 cup sour cream or heavy cream – Creates a velvety texture.
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – For thickening.

Seasonings and Garnish:

• 1 teaspoon dried dill or 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped – Adds herbal freshness.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste – Balances the flavors.
• Extra dill or parsley (optional) – For garnish.

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How to Make Creamy Dill Pickle Soup

1. Sauté the Aromatics:
   • In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes, until softened.
   • Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
2. Build the Soup Base:
   • Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and add the diced potatoes and grated carrots.
   • Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
3. Add the Pickles:
   • Stir in the grated dill pickles and pickle juice. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Make It Creamy:
   • In a small bowl, whisk the sour cream and flour together until smooth.
   • Gradually ladle a small amount of hot soup into the sour cream mixture, whisking constantly to temper it and prevent curdling.
   • Stir the mixture back into the pot, mixing well.
5. Season and Simmer:
   • Add the dried or fresh dill, then season with salt and black pepper to taste. Simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra dill or parsley if desired. Serve warm with crusty bread or rolls on the side.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Flavor: The tangy pickle flavor is perfectly balanced with creamy and savory elements.
• Hearty and Comforting: Potatoes and carrots make it filling, while the creamy broth soothes the soul.
• Traditional and Authentic: A taste of Polish heritage in every bite.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and steps for a quick yet impressive dish.

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Pro Tips for Success

1. Use Good-Quality Pickles: Opt for brined dill pickles (not sweet or bread-and-butter pickles) for authentic flavor.
2. Control the Tanginess: Adjust the pickle juice to your taste—start with less and add more as needed.
3. Temper the Sour Cream: Always temper the sour cream with hot soup to avoid curdling.
4. Storage: This soup stores well! Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.

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This Creamy Dill Pickle Soup (Zupa Ogórkowa) is a delightful combination of tangy, creamy, and hearty flavors. It’s an unforgettable dish that will transport you to the heart of Poland with every spoonful. Enjoy! 😊🍲🥒