Creamy Dill Pickle Soup (Zupa Ogórkowa)

Creamy Dill Pickle Soup, or Zupa Ogórkowa, is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the tangy, briny flavor of dill pickles with a creamy base to create a savory, unique soup. A popular dish in Polish cuisine, Zupa Ogórkowa is often enjoyed as a warming meal on chilly days. The combination of tender vegetables, chicken broth, and a creamy texture makes this soup irresistible to pickle lovers and those seeking a hearty, flavorful meal.

The addition of sour cream and dill pickle juice provides a delightful tanginess, while the richness from the butter and milk brings everything together in a velvety smooth soup. If you’re looking for a soup that is both satisfying and has a bit of an unexpected twist, this creamy dill pickle soup is the perfect choice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Unique Flavor Combination

The tangy dill pickles paired with creamy milk and sour cream create a flavorful and unique soup that stands out from traditional soup recipes.

2. Comforting and Hearty

With tender potatoes, carrots, and a creamy broth, this soup is warm and satisfying, perfect for a cozy meal.

3. Quick and Easy to Make

This recipe can be made in just 35 minutes, making it an ideal option for a weeknight meal or when you need something quick yet comforting.

4. Perfect for Pickle Lovers

If you love pickles, this soup is the perfect way to enjoy your favorite snack in a new, flavorful way.

5. Customizable

You can easily adjust the amount of pickles or pickle juice to make the soup more or less tangy, according to your taste.

Ingredients

• Chicken broth
• Dill pickles, finely chopped
• Pickle juice
• Diced potatoes
• Chopped onion
• Chopped carrots
• Butter
• All-purpose flour
• Milk
• Sour cream
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh dill for garnish

Variations

• Add Meat: To make the soup heartier, you can add shredded chicken or diced ham for extra protein.
• Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit the butter for a vegetarian version.
• Make It Spicy: If you like a bit of heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper or a few chopped jalapeños to the soup.
• Extra Creamy: For an even richer soup, add more sour cream or use heavy cream instead of milk.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

In a large pot, combine the chicken broth, chopped dill pickles, pickle juice, diced potatoes, chopped onion, and carrots. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the vegetables are tender (about 20 minutes).

Step 2: Make the Roux

While the vegetables are cooking, melt butter in a separate saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the flour to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to ensure the mixture is smooth. Continue to cook until it thickens slightly.

Step 3: Add the Milk Mixture

Slowly pour the milk mixture into the soup while stirring continuously. Continue to cook for a few more minutes until the soup slightly thickens.

Step 4: Stir in Sour Cream

Remove the soup from the heat and stir in the sour cream. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh dill. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Skip the Roux: The roux helps thicken the soup and gives it a rich, creamy texture. Be sure to whisk the milk in slowly to avoid lumps.
• Taste for Seasoning: Dill pickles can vary in saltiness, so be sure to taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper before serving.
• Use Fresh Dill: Fresh dill gives the soup a fragrant, vibrant flavor. You can also use dried dill in a pinch, but fresh is always better.

How to Serve

This creamy dill pickle soup is great on its own as a light meal, but it can also be served with crusty bread or a simple salad to complete the meal. A slice of rye or sourdough bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Freezing

This soup can be frozen, but the texture may change slightly due to the cream. Let it cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove when ready to serve.

Reheating

Reheat the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup is too thick, add a little extra chicken broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I make this soup without pickles?

The pickles are essential for the unique flavor of this soup, but if you’re not a fan, you can try substituting with a different brined vegetable or omit them entirely for a more traditional creamy vegetable soup.

2. Can I use different vegetables in this soup?

Yes, feel free to substitute vegetables like leeks, celery, or parsnips if you prefer. Just keep the proportions similar to maintain the right texture and flavor balance.

3. Can I make this soup dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, substitute the butter with olive oil and use a dairy-free milk, such as almond or oat milk. You can also replace the sour cream with a dairy-free yogurt or cashew cream.

4. Can I use fresh dill instead of dried dill?

Yes, fresh dill is highly recommended for this soup as it adds a fresh, vibrant flavor. If using dried dill, reduce the amount as it is more concentrated.

5. How can I make this soup spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the soup for some extra heat.

6. Can I use a different type of broth?

Yes, you can use vegetable broth or even beef broth for a different flavor base.

7. Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, you can make this soup a day ahead. Just reheat it gently before serving, and adjust the seasoning if needed.

8. How do I adjust the soup’s thickness?

If the soup is too thick, add a little more broth or milk to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to thicken up.

9. Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Be aware that the texture may change slightly upon reheating.

10. Can I add meat to this soup?

Yes, you can add cooked chicken, turkey, or bacon for added protein.

Conclusion

Creamy Dill Pickle Soup is a deliciously unique dish that combines the tangy, briny flavors of dill pickles with the richness of a creamy base. This comforting and easy-to-make soup is perfect for pickle lovers or anyone looking for a flavorful and hearty meal. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly day or as a starter for a larger meal, this soup will surely impress with its distinct taste and creamy texture.

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