Húsleves is a traditional Hungarian soup that typically consists of tender pieces of meat (such as beef, pork, or poultry) cooked in a flavorful broth along with an assortment of vegetables. Common vegetables used in Húsleves include carrots, potatoes, onions, and celery. The soup is often seasoned with salt, pepper, and various herbs and spices, giving it a rich and savory flavor.
Húsleves is a very popular option in the winter months because of its cosy and warming characteristics. It is commonly served as a main course, accompanied by crusty bread or traditional Hungarian dumplings called nokedli. The soup is renowned for being hearty and for offering a filling and fulfilling supper.
Origin & Cultural Significance
The name ‘Húsleves’ translates to meat soup in English, which simply describes the dish.
Húsleves has its roots deeply embedded in Hungarian culinary traditions. It has been a staple dish in Hungarian cuisine for generations, reflecting the country’s earthy food culture. It is commonly served during family reunions, festivals, and festive events.
Hungary’s historical connections to nomadic tribes and neighboring countries have influenced its cuisine, and Húsleves showcases this blend of influences. The use of meats, vegetables, and aromatic herbs in the soup represents the agricultural practices and diverse flavors of the region.
Húsleves embodies the concept of communal dining and hospitality, as it is often prepared in large quantities to feed extended families and guests. It is a symbol of togetherness and sharing, fostering a sense of unity and warmth within Hungarian communities.
Over time, Húsleves has become a beloved national dish, representing the heart and soul of Hungarian gastronomy. It continues to be passed down through generations, preserving the cultural heritage and serving as a delicious reminder of Hungarian culinary traditions.
Hungarian Húsleves Recipe
Húsleves is a traditional Hungarian soup that typically consists of tender pieces of meat (such as beef, pork, or poultry) cooked in a flavorful broth along with an assortment of vegetables.
Ingredients
- Ground pork - 500g
- Onion, finely chopped - 1
- Garlic, minced - 2 cloves
- Breadcrumbs - 1/2 cup
- Milk - 1/4 cup
- Egg, lightly beaten - 1
- Fresh parsley, chopped - 2 tbsp
- Salt - 1 tsp
- Ground black pepper - 1/2 tsp
- Ground paprika - 1/2 tsp
- Beef or vegetable broth - 6 cups
- Medium potatoes, peeled and diced - 2
- Medium carrots, peeled and sliced - 2
- Small parsnip, peeled and sliced - 1
- Small celery root, peeled and diced - 1
- Sour cream - 1/2 cup
- Fresh dill (chopped) - for garnish
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, milk, beaten egg, parsley, salt, black pepper, and paprika. All components should be thoroughly combined.
- The beef mixture should be formed into tiny meatballs with a diameter of about one inch. Place aside.
- Bring the beef or vegetable broth to a boil in a big saucepan over medium heat. The potatoes, carrots, parsnip, and celery root should be added after the water has boiled and the heat has been reduced to medium-low. Cook the veggies for 10 minutes or until they are just starting to soften.
- One by one, carefully add the meatballs to the boiling broth. Cook the meatballs and veggies for a further 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are well cooked.
- Mix in the sour cream after taking the saucepan from the heat. Make sure to temper the sour cream by adding a spoonful of the hot soup to the sour cream and stirring well before adding it to the pot. This prevents curdling.
- Return the pot to low heat and heat the soup gently, but do not let it come to a boil. To enable the flavors to combine, cook for 5 more minutes.
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed by adding more salt or pepper.
- Serve the Hus Leves hot, garnished with freshly chopped dill. It pairs well with crusty bread or Hungarian-style noodles.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 687Total Fat: 38gSaturated Fat: 15gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 19gCholesterol: 201mgSodium: 1034mgCarbohydrates: 40gFiber: 5gSugar: 6gProtein: 46g
Nutrition is provided and calculated by Nutritionix. It is for general information purposes and is only a rough estimation.