Slovenian Sour Pork Soup With Delicious And Easy Steps Of Ingredients

Slovenia offers a treasure trove of culinary delights. Among them stands a standout dish: the Slovenian Sour Pork Soup. This soup embodies the nation’s rich traditions, blending tangy, savory, and hearty elements into one delightful bowl.

Each sip transports you to the scenic landscapes of Slovenia, evoking memories of rustic countryside and mountain peaks. It’s not just a soup; it’s an experience.

Crafted with precision and passion, it’s a testament to Slovenia’s gastronomic prowess. 

Dive into this bowl of culture. Let Slovenia’s finest culinary tradition sweep you off your feet. Welcome to a journey of taste.

What Is Slovenian Sour Pork Soup?

Slovenian Sour Pork Soup, known locally as “Kisla Juha,” is a traditional dish hailing from Slovenia. It’s a rich blend of pork, garlic, potatoes, and vinegar, giving it a distinctive sour taste. 

The soup offers a symphony of flavors, infused with herbs and cooked slowly. Popular during cold months, this comforting bowl captures the essence of Slovenian culinary heritage, providing warmth, depth, and a delightful tang in every spoonful.

History Of Slovenian Sour Pork Soup

Slovenian Sour Pork Soup, or “Kisla Juha,” traces its roots back to Slovenia’s rural past. Historically, farmers needed hearty, nutrient-dense meals to sustain long workdays.

They crafted this unique soup using readily available ingredients like pork and potatoes combined with the tang of vinegar. 

The sour taste, while distinctive, also served a preservation purpose in pre-refrigeration days.

Over time, Kisla Juha transformed from a simple farmer’s meal to a beloved national dish, representing Slovenia’s rich culinary tapestry.

Interesting Facts About The Slovenian Sour Pork Soup

• Origin Name: It’s known as “Kisla Juha” in Slovenia, which translates to “Sour Soup.”
• Preservation Technique: The sourness, originally for preservation in a time before refrigeration, has become its signature taste.
• Rural Roots: It began as a rural dish, serving as a vital source of sustenance for farmers.
• Celebration Staple: Today, it’s commonly prepared during local festivals and family gatherings.
• Regional Variations: Different Slovenian regions have slight variations, adjusting herbs and meat cuts.

What Makes The Slovenian Sour Pork Soup Special?

• Unique Flavor: Its blend of sourness from vinegar with rich pork creates an unparalleled taste.
• Historical Legacy: It’s a dish that tells the story of Slovenia’s rural heritage and culinary evolution.
• Simple Ingredients: Made from basic, often farm-fresh components, yet delivers a complex flavor.
• Cultural Symbol: Represents the Slovenian people’s warmth, hospitality, and traditions.
• Versatility: Perfect for cold winters or as a refreshing summer meal.

Ingredient List 

Ingredient Tips 

• Pig’s Foot: Ensure it’s fresh and cleaned well. It imparts a gelatinous texture to the soup.
• Meats: Opt for pasture-raised pork for a richer flavor. Don’t shy away from organ meats; they add depth.
• Water: Use filtered water to ensure no off-flavors in the soup.
• Fresh Thyme: Pick vibrant, green thyme sprigs for maximum aroma.
• Cumin Seeds: Toast them lightly before use to release their aroma.

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients? 

• Keto: Skip flour for thickening; use a touch of xanthan gum. Opt for high-fat meats, and add more lard or butter.
• Paleo: Replace the lard with ghee or coconut oil. Skip the flour entirely, or use a paleo-friendly thickener like arrowroot powder.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken.
• Whole30: Eliminate the flour and wine. Use compliant meats and fats. Make sure to double-check all ingredients for hidden sugars or additives.
• Vegetarian: Omit the pork. Use mushrooms or firm tofu for texture and umami flavor. Vegetable broth can replace the meat essence.
• Vegan: Follow the vegetarian version and replace lard with olive or coconut oil.

Recipe Directions

• Cover the pig’s foot and organ meats with cold water in a stockpot. Bring to a simmer on medium heat, removing scum.
• Add bay leaf, thyme, cumin seeds, and garlic. Reduce to low; simmer covered for 2 hours, occasionally skimming scum.
• In a skillet, melt lard. Sauté onions until soft (5 mins). Stir in flour and paprika to make a paste.
• Mix some soup liquid with the paste until smooth. Stir back into soup; boil.
• Discard the pig’s foot and bay leaf—season with vinegar, salt, and pepper.
• Serve garnished with thyme leaves.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings 

Variations

• Vegetarian/Vegan: Substitute meat with mushrooms, tofu, or tempeh.
• Seafood Twist: Replace pork with fish or shellfish for a maritime flavor.

Add-Ons

• Veggies: Incorporate root vegetables like carrots or parsnips for added texture.
• Grains: Barley or rice can be simmered in the soup to make it more hearty.
• Beans: White beans or chickpeas provide added protein and richness.

Toppings

• Herbs: Fresh dill or parsley complements the tangy flavor.
• Spice: Red chili flakes or sliced jalapeños for those seeking heat.
• Creaminess: A dollop of sour cream or yogurt to balance the soup’s tang.

Scaling The Recipe 

• Proportions: Increase or decrease ingredients proportionally. If doubling the recipe, double the ingredients. For half, use half.
• Cookware: Use a larger or smaller pot based on the quantity. Ensure ingredients are sufficiently submerged in water.
• Cooking Time: While ingredient amounts change, cooking times may not double or halve exactly. Monitor closely.
• Seasoning: Instead of doubling or halving spices or salt immediately, add gradually. Taste and adjust.
• Consistency: Scaling up might require additional water or broth. Ensure consistency remains balanced.

What Is Used For Garnishing?

Herbs: Fresh thyme leaves, parsley, dill, or cilantro add color and aroma.

• Spices: A sprinkle of paprika, red chili flakes, or freshly ground black pepper adds warmth.
• Cream: A dollop of sour cream or yogurt gives a rich contrast.
• Zest: Grated lemon or orange zest offers a fragrant touch.
• Seeds & Nuts: Toasted pumpkin seeds, sesame, or crushed nuts give crunch.
• Veggies: Thinly sliced green onions or radishes provide texture and freshness.

Can I Make Slovenian Sour Pork Soup In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?

Slow Cooker

• After sautéing onions and making the roux in a skillet, transfer everything to the slow cooker. Add the pig’s foot, organ meats, and other ingredients. Set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-6 hours. The prolonged cooking will meld flavors wonderfully.

Instant Pot

• Use the ‘Sauté’ function for onions and roux creation. Add the meats and other ingredients afterward. Seal the lid and set it on ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ for about 45 minutes to an hour. Release pressure naturally.

Can I Use Store Bought Broth, Or Should I Make My Own?

Store-Bought Broth

• Pros: Quick and convenient. Ideal for those short on time.
• Cons: Might contain preservatives, additives, and high sodium levels. Flavors can sometimes be generic or less rich.

Homemade Broth

• Pros: Fresh, rich flavors. You control the ingredients, ensuring no unwanted additives and customizing salt levels.
• Cons: Requires time and effort to prepare.

Can I Use Different Types Of Meat/Fish/Pasta/Vegetables For The Slovenian Sour Pork Soup? 

• Meat: Chicken, beef, or lamb can be substituted. Each offers unique flavors and textures.
• Fish: White fish, salmon, or shellfish like shrimp and mussels can be integrated for a maritime twist.
• Pasta: Small pasta shapes like orzo, ditalini, or even egg noodles can be added for heartiness. Cook separately and add towards the end to avoid overcooking.
• Vegetables: Root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, or potatoes can enrich the soup. Leafy greens such as kale or spinach introduce color and nutrition.

Success Tips-Tips And Tricks For Making The Recipe 

Prepping Tips

• Mise en Place: Always gather and prep your ingredients before starting. It streamlines the process.
• Uniformity: Chop ingredients uniformly for even cooking.
• Bones & Scraps: Save vegetable scraps and bones. They’re gold for homemade broths.

Cooking Time Tips

• Low & Slow: Soups often benefit from slow cooking, allowing flavors to meld.
• Skim the Top: Skim off the foam during initial boiling to ensure a clear soup.
• Taste Frequently: Adjust seasonings as you go.
• Starch Addition: If adding grains or pasta, ensure they don’t overcook and become mushy.

Nutritional Values 

Slovenian Sour Pork Soup is more than just a flavorful journey to Eastern Europe; it’s a nutritious one.

Packed with protein from varied pork cuts and enhanced with aromatic herbs, each bowl offers a balanced array of vitamins, minerals, and essential nutrients to fuel the body and delight the palate.

What Are The Total Calories In The Slovenian Sour Pork Soup?

A rough estimate might place a standard serving between 200-300 calories. For exact numbers we need to know the exact calories content of each ingredient. 

Dietary Restrictions For The Slovenian Sour Pork Soup

• Pork & Organ Meats: Not suitable for vegetarians, vegans, or those who don’t consume pork for religious or dietary reasons.
• Lard: Derived from animal fat, making it unsuitable for vegetarians or vegans.
• Gluten: The white flour in the recipe contains gluten, posing issues for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities.
• High-Fat Content: May not align with low-fat or certain heart-healthy diets.
• Low-Carb & Keto: While the soup is relatively low-carb, the flour can add some carbs.

Health Benefits Of The Slovenian Sour Pork Soup

• Rich Protein: Pork meat and organ meats provide essential amino acids beneficial for muscle repair and growth.
• Collagen: Pig’s foot releases collagen during cooking, promoting skin, hair, and joint health.
• Minerals and Vitamins: Organ meats are nutrient-dense, containing iron, vitamin B12, and zinc.
• Herbs & Spices: Garlic, thyme, and bay leaf have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
• Bone Health: Broths made from bones are a good source of minerals like calcium.

Nutrition Table 

How Can I Make Slovenian Sour Pork Soup Lower In Sodium?

• Broth: If using store-bought broth, opt for a low-sodium or unsalted version. Homemade broth allows you to control the salt content directly.
• Limit Added Salt: Adjust or reduce the amount of sea salt added to the soup. Taste as you go to ensure the right balance.
• Spices & Herbs: Increase herbs like thyme, bay leaf, and cumin to infuse more flavor without adding sodium.
• Fresh Ingredients: Utilize fresh vegetables and meats, which are naturally lower in sodium compared to canned or processed alternatives.
• Alternative Seasonings: Consider adding a squeeze of lemon or lime to enhance taste without extra salt.

How Can I Make Slovenian Sour Pork Soup Lower In Sugar?

• Natural Ingredients: Avoid using store-bought broths or processed ingredients containing hidden sugars.
• Check Spices: Some commercially mixed spices may have added sugars. Opt for pure, unadulterated spices.
• Vinegar & Wine: If using vinegar or wine, ensure they are dry and without added sugars.
• Fresh Veggies: Stick to fresh vegetables. Some canned or prepackaged vegetables can contain added sugars for preservation.
• Monitor Carbs: While not direct sugars, be mindful of ingredients like flour, which can contribute to the overall carbohydrate content.

How To Serve Slovenian Sour Pork Soup In The Best Way?

• Warm Bowls: Preheat your bowls. Pouring hot soup into a cold bowl can affect its temperature and taste.
• Fresh Garnish: Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves atop the soup just before serving. It adds color, aroma, and a burst of flavor.
• Crusty Bread: Offer a side of freshly baked crusty bread or traditional Slovenian bread to complement the soup’s rich taste.
• Optimal Consistency: Ensure the soup isn’t overly thick or watery; it should perfectly coat the back of a spoon.
• Temperature: Serve hot but not scalding. A gentle steam rising from the bowl signals the perfect temperature.

Perfect Side Dishes To Complement The Slovenian Sour Pork Soup

• Crusty Bread: A loaf of fresh, warm bread, preferably rye or sourdough, is perfect for dipping and soaking up the soup’s flavorful broth.
• Slovenian Salad: A simple mix of lettuce, hard-boiled eggs, pumpkin seed oil, and vinegar complements the soup’s richness.
• Pickled Vegetables: Crunchy pickled cucumbers or cabbage add a tangy contrast to the soup’s deep flavors.
• Potato Pancakes: Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside – a starchy companion to the hearty soup.
• Creamy Polenta: This soft, creamy dish can balance the soup’s robust character.

How Long Can We Store The Soup?

• Refrigeration: Transfer the soup to airtight containers once cooled to room temperature. It can be stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
• Freezing: For more extended storage, freeze the soup. First, allow it to cool, then pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion. Properly stored, the soup can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
• Reheating: Always reheat the soup thoroughly until it’s steaming hot. If frozen, it’s best to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Can I Make Soup In Advance?

• Cook: Prepare the soup as instructed and let it cool to room temperature.
• Store: Transfer to airtight containers and refrigerate.
• Reheat: When ready to serve, reheat the soup on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s steaming hot.
• Advantage: Preparing in advance can be a time-saver and often deepens the soup’s richness and flavor profile after a day or two.

What Can We Do With Leftovers? 

• Pork Stew: Add vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or peas to the soup and simmer until tender for a hearty stew.
• Pasta Sauce: Reduce the soup slightly for a thicker consistency and toss with pasta for a unique twist on a meat sauce.
• Pork Tacos: Shred the leftover pork meat, mix it with some soup for moisture, and use it as a taco filling.
• Rice Medley: Mix the soup with cooked rice for a flavorful and hearty dish.
• Pie Filling: Use the soup as a savory pie or pot pie base.

Special Tools And Equipment Needed

• Stockpot: A large, heavy-bottomed pot is essential to accommodate the soup volume and ensure even cooking.
• Skimmer: Handy for removing scum that rises to the top during the simmering process.
• Ladle: Essential for stirring, serving, and transferring liquids.
• Skillet: A medium-sized skillet is needed for sautéing onions and creating the roux with flour and paprika.
• Sharp Knife: Essential for dicing the meats and chopping vegetables.
• Cutting Board: Preferably a couple: one for meats and another for vegetables to prevent cross-contamination.
• Measuring Cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient quantities.
• Airtight Containers: Useful for storing leftover soup or prepped ingredients.
• Strainer: If you wish to strain the broth for clarity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Different Cuts Of Pork Instead Of Organ Meats?

Certainly. While organ meats lend the soup a distinctive flavor and texture, substituting with other cuts like pork shoulder, tenderloin, or ribs is perfectly acceptable. The soup will still retain its rich and hearty character.

Is There A Preferred Type Of Apple Cider Vinegar To Use?

It is best to utilize raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar for its nuanced flavor. However, in the absence of this, any good quality apple cider vinegar or dry white wine should suffice.

How Important Is The Use Of Lard In The Recipe?

Lard imparts a unique flavor and richness to the soup. If unavailable, you can replace it with unsalted butter or a neutral cooking oil, but note that there might be a slight change in flavor profile.

Is There Any Specific Type Of Water Recommended For This Soup?

Filtered water is preferred as it ensures that the soup is free from any contaminants or off-flavors that might be present in tap water. It allows the pure flavors of the ingredients to shine through.

How Do I Know When The Meat Is Perfectly Tender?

The meat should be easy to pierce with a fork and should almost fall apart with slight pressure. It’s crucial not to overcook, as this can render the meat mushy. Monitoring during the 2-hour simmering period is advised.

Easy Steps to Add A Twist to Slovenian Sour Pork Soup With Deliciousness

5 from 1 vote

Recipe by Hanna Barnes Course: Soup Recipes

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

20

minutes

Cooking time

2

hours 

15

minutes

Calories

350

kcal

A traditional delight from Slovenia, this Sour Pork Soup combines the rich flavors of pork, organ meats, and aromatic herbs. Simmered to perfection, its robust broth is both hearty and invigorating, capturing the essence of Slovenian culinary traditions.

Ingredients

• Pig’s foot

• Pork meat and organ meats

• Cold filtered water

• Bay leaf

• Fresh thyme

• Cumin seeds

• Garlic

• Lard

• Onion

• Unbleached white flour

• Paprika

• Apple cider vinegar or dry white wine

• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

Step-By-Step Directions

• Preparation Steps
  Gather all the ingredients. Ensure the pig’s foot and organ meats are cleaned and diced properly.
• Cooking
  Take a large stockpot. Place the pig’s foot and organ meats inside. Pour in the cold filtered water, ensuring everything’s submerged.
  Set the stockpot on medium heat. As it starts to simmer, carefully spoon off any scum appearing on the top.
  To the pot, add the bay leaf, thyme sprigs, cumin seeds, and chopped garlic.
  Reduce the heat to its lowest setting. Cover the stockpot, letting the soup simmer gently for about 2 hours. Throughout this duration, skim off any scum as it forms. Ensure the bones remain submerged by occasionally adding water.
• Blending
  In a medium skillet, melt the lard over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped onion. Sauté them until they become translucent but ensure they don’t brown – roughly 5 minutes.
  To the onions, add the flour and paprika. Stir them together until they form a smooth paste. Let this cook, while constantly stirring, for about 1 minute.
  Gradually introduce a ladleful of the soup into the skillet. This will help thin out the paste. Stir it constantly to prevent any lumps from forming.
• Final Touches
  Now, incorporate this onion-paste mixture back into the main soup pot. Stir and bring the soup to a boil.
  It’s time to remove and discard the pig’s foot and the bay leaf from the soup.
• Serving
  Before serving, season the soup with apple cider vinegar or white wine, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  Ladle the soup into individual bowls. As a finishing touch, garnish each bowl with fresh thyme leaves.

Recipe Video

https://youtu.be/L8v1xKrIB0o?si=li4aYAienX07SepY

Notes

• The quality of ingredients matters; opt for organic meats and fresh herbs whenever possible.
• Adjust the soup’s tanginess by varying the amount of apple cider vinegar or white wine.
• Traditional recipes may vary slightly across Slovenian households. Embrace personal touches!
• For a smoother broth, strain after simmering.
• Serve hot and pair with a crisp Slovenian wine for an authentic experience.

• Author
• Recent Posts

Hanna Barnes

Hanna is a writer at Soup Chick. Yulia's website reignited her passion for crafting affordable, veggie-packed soups. She is certified by the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts and has expertise in healthy, baking, and vegan cuisine. With years of food blogging and collaborating with chefs, she offers a range of recipes on Soup Chick, from classic broths to the heavenly slow cooker chicken tortilla soup. Join her in creating flavorsome, wholesome soups in your kitchen!

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