Circassian Strawberry Soup

Ingredients

In the original Polish Zupa truskawkowa, the soup is typically made with a base of cream and sugar, giving it a rich and sweet flavor. However, in this Circassian adaptation, we replace the cream with yogurt to add a tangy element and make it lighter. Additionally, we incorporate honey instead of sugar to enhance the natural sweetness of the strawberries. These modifications give the soup a unique twist while still maintaining its refreshing and fruity essence. We alse have the original recipe for Zupa truskawkowa, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1 lb) fresh strawberries, hulled and halved 500g (1 lb) fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
• 250g (1 cup) plain yogurt 250g (1 cup) plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons honey 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Fresh mint leaves, for garnish Fresh mint leaves, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 1g, 0.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 25g, 20g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a saucepan, combine the strawberries, honey, and lemon juice.
2. 2.
   Cook over medium heat until the strawberries release their juices and become soft, about 10 minutes.
3. 3.
   Remove from heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature.
4. 4.
   Transfer the cooled strawberry mixture to a blender and blend until smooth.
5. 5.
   Add the yogurt to the blender and blend again until well combined.
6. 6.
   Pour the soup into a bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to chill.
7. 7.
   Serve the Circassian Strawberry Soup chilled, garnished with fresh mint leaves.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Strawberries — Choose ripe and sweet strawberries for the best flavor. If strawberries are not in season, you can use frozen strawberries instead, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Tips & Tricks

• For a creamier texture, you can strain the soup through a fine-mesh sieve before chilling.
• Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey, depending on your preference.
• Garnish the soup with a dollop of yogurt and a sprinkle of crushed pistachios for an extra touch of elegance.
• Serve the soup with a side of fresh strawberries and a slice of lemon for a beautiful presentation.
• If you prefer a smoother consistency, blend the soup for a longer time until it reaches your desired texture.

Serving advice

Serve the Circassian Strawberry Soup in chilled bowls or glasses for an elegant presentation. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. This soup is perfect as an appetizer or a refreshing dessert.

Presentation advice

To enhance the visual appeal, drizzle a swirl of yogurt on top of the soup and garnish with a sprig of fresh mint. Serve the soup in clear glass bowls or glasses to showcase its vibrant pink color.