Okroshka - A Cold Russian Summer Soup

 A refreshing soup for the hot summer days. Okroshka is a combination of meat, eggs, vegetables, and kefir or yogurt. The soup is easy to make and tastes delicious. The smokiness of the ham and the earthy crunch of the veggies perfectly match with the smooth kefir base. This is the perfect meal to serve when friends and family come over to spend a sunny afternoon on your dacha.

The original recipe of okroshka was created for Volga river barge haulers who needed an easy and nutritious lunch. It is believed that the original dish consisted of boiled fish, onions, and kvass (bread drink). Later versions used diluted kefir or sour cream with vinegar. The modern version of okroshka is also rich in protein and is often filled with different types of smoked meat like bologna or sausages. It is also topped with scallions and dill to give it a distinct flavor.

Okroshka is an important part of the Russian cuisine, as it helps a person to stay hydrated during a hot and dry summer. Aside from okroshka, there are many other traditional cold soups that can be prepared during the summertime. Most of them are vegetable based, but there are also some that use fish, chicken, or other animal products.

Besides okroshka, some of the most popular and tasty cold soups are vichyssoise, borscht, and kurnik. All of them are great to eat during the warm summer months because they provide all the essential vitamins and minerals that one needs in order to stay healthy.

There are also some cold dishes that include fruit as an important ingredient. These are usually sweeter and can be served as a dessert as well. The most famous of them is kholodnik, which is a combination of berries, ice cubes, and whipped cream.

If you are looking for a healthy and delicious way to keep yourself cool this summer, try making your own okroshka with your favorite ingredients. You will be amazed by how delicious and satisfying it can be. Just don’t forget to add a piece of dark rye bread on the side to complete the experience!Okruschka