A Brief History of Chłodnik
Chłodnik, pronounced “hwohd-neek,” is a traditional Polish soup that has been enjoyed for centuries. The name itself translates to “cold” in Polish, indicating its primary feature. This dish is particularly popular during the warm summer months when fresh, seasonal vegetables like beets, cucumbers, and radishes are abundant. It’s believed that Chłodnik has its roots in the Eastern European culinary tradition, where cold soups made with fermented ingredients were common. Over time, it evolved into the delightful beet-based version we know today.
Ingredients
- 4 medium beets, washed and peeled
- 2 cups beet broth (from cooking the beets)
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups cold buttermilk
- 1 cucumber, peeled and diced
- 4 radishes, thinly sliced
- 1 small bunch of dill, chopped
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Optional: 1 garlic clove, minced
Instructions
- Cook the Beets: Place the peeled beets in a pot and cover them with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the beets are tender, about 30-40 minutes. Remove the beets, reserving the beet broth, and let them cool.
- Prepare the Soup Base: Grate the cooled beets into a large bowl. Add the Greek yogurt, sour cream, and buttermilk. Stir until well combined.
- Add Vegetables and Seasonings: Mix in the diced cucumber, sliced radishes, chopped dill, green onions, and hard-boiled eggs. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste. If you prefer a hint of garlic, add the minced clove at this stage.
- Chill the Soup: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the soup for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Ladle the chilled soup into bowls, garnishing with extra dill or green onions if desired. Enjoy this refreshing and nutritious dish on a hot day!
Tips and Variations
- For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup before adding the vegetables and eggs.
- Add a splash of vinegar or more lemon juice if you prefer a tangier flavor.
- Serve with a side of boiled potatoes or crusty bread for a more filling meal.
We hope you enjoy making and eating this traditional Polish Chłodnik as much as we do. It’s a perfect way to celebrate the summer season and the wonderful world of beets. Bon appétit! (or should we say Smacznego!)
