Okroshka (окрошка)

(Russian Cold Cucumber Soup)

February 4: National Homemade Soup Day

A Russian friend of a friend came to our house blessing in Illinois and was kind enough to share a cultural dish for our special occasion. Kristina Y., whom we met through our Ukrainian friend Olga W., made a refreshing cold cucumber soup called okroshka. They explained that it is eaten during the short summer months in Russia and Ukraine.

Although it is still winter in the northern hemisphere, and hot homemade soups are on most menus, okroshka may still be enjoyed where the weather is warm (such as in the southern hemisphere).

For a refreshing Russian soup, try okroshka for National Homemade Soup Day.

Recipe

(Adapted from Bella Online)

Ingredients

• 1 large cucumber, peeled and chopped
• ½ cup green onions, sliced (green parts only)
• 2 sprigs fresh dill, minced
• 2-3 hard boiled eggs, chopped
• 4 cups water
• 3 tablespoons sour cream
• 1 ½ cups cooked ham, chopped
• salt to taste

Directions

Chop the cucumber, slice the green onions, mince the dill and chop the eggs. Place everything in a large bowl.

Pour in the water. Mix in the sour cream. Chop the ham and add it to the soup. Season with salt. Chill in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to blend. Ladle into soup bowls. Garnish with additional dill (optional). Serve cold.

Notes

• This soup is traditionally made with kvass (a fermented beverage made from rye bread). However, it is difficult to find kvass here so it is fine to use water as the liquid in the soup. Kvass adds a unique flavor to the soup.
• Instead of ham, sausages or other flavorful cooked meats, such as lamb, beef or chicken, may be used in this recipe.
• Sometimes ice cubes are added to the recipe to ensure a very chilled soup.
• Thanks to Olga W. for the ceramic figurine from Ukraine which we used in the final food photo above.
• January is also National Soup Month.