Escudella Freda

Introduction to Escudella Freda

Escudella Freda is a traditional Catalan cold soup, perfect for refreshing summer meals. Known for its rich flavors and nutritious ingredients, it’s a dish that not only satisfies hunger but also provides a glimpse into Catalonia's culinary history. Historically, escudella was considered a staple in Catalan homes, often prepared during the colder months. However, Escudella Freda offers a delightful twist, making it suitable for warmer weather by serving it cold.

History of Escudella Freda

The dish has roots in ancient Catalonia where the original hot version, Escudella i Carn d'Olla, was a one-pot meal designed to be hearty and fulfilling. It typically consisted of a broth with meat and vegetables, intended to make the most of available ingredients during harder times. Over centuries, variations emerged across different regions, eventually leading to the chilled version enjoyed today, which removes meat and uses seasonal vegetables, making it lighter and suitable for summer.

Ingredients for Escudella Freda

• Tomatoes (500g)
• Cucumbers (2 medium)
• Red Bell Pepper (1 large)
• Green Bell Pepper (1 large)
• Red Onion (1 small)
• Garlic (2 cloves)
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil (50ml)
• Red Wine Vinegar (25ml)
• Sea Salt (to taste)
• Black Pepper (to taste)
• Fresh Basil (a handful)

Preparation Steps

Before you begin assembling Escudella Freda, ensure all ingredients are fresh and adequately cleaned.

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Roughly chop the tomatoes, cucumbers, and both red and green bell peppers.
2. Dice the red onion and mince the garlic for a flavor base.

Step 2: Blend the Ingredients

1. In a blender, combine all the chopped vegetables along with the minced garlic.
2. Blend on medium speed until smooth, adding sea salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 3: Incorporate Liquid Ingredients

1. Slowly add the extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar while blending to emulsify the mixture.

Step 4: Chill the Soup

1. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This step is crucial for the flavors to meld and the soup to chill adequately.
2. Use a cooking timer to ensure proper chilling time.

Serving Suggestions

Once your Escudella Freda is chilled, it's time to serve.

Garnishing

• Before serving, finely chop the fresh basil and sprinkle it over the soup for an aromatic finish.
• Drizzle a bit more olive oil on top for added richness.

Enjoying Escudella Freda

Serve Escudella Freda in chilled bowls. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or can be enjoyed on its own as a refreshing appetizer or light main course. The combination of ripe tomatoes and cucumbers provides a nutritious, hydrating option during warm weather. The balance of oils and vinegar brings out the best in the vegetables, elevating this simple dish to something extraordinary.

This cooling bowl of Escudella Freda not only reminds one of the ingenuity of Catalan cuisine but also honors the tradition of making the most of seasonal ingredients.