Pražská Citronačka
Introduction to Pražská Citronačka
"Pražská Citronačka" can be directly translated from Czech as "Prague Lemon Soup". This vibrant dish has roots in the heart of Central Europe, and it draws influence from both Czech and surrounding Mediterranean cuisines. Known for its refreshing citrus flavor, this soup is especially popular during the spring months and offers a delightful twist to traditional broths.
The beauty of Pražská Citronačka lies in its simplicity. While it has a strong lemon presence, it’s balanced by the richness of the broth and subtle hints of herbs. Over the centuries, this soup has been a favorite among locals in Prague and has even gained international variations thanks to its adaptable nature.
Ingredients
- Lemons - 3 large ones, preferably organic
- Chicken broth - 4 cups
- Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
- Onion - 1 medium, finely chopped
- Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
- Carrots - 2, sliced into rounds
- Celery - 2 stalks, chopped
- Rice (preferably Arborio) - 1/2 cup
- Parsley - freshly chopped, for garnish
- Thyme - 1 teaspoon, dried or fresh
- Salt - to taste
- Pepper - to taste
- Egg yolks - 2, beaten
Preparation
Step 1: Preparing the Broth
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until both are translucent and fragrant. This will form the aromatic base of your Pražská Citronačka.
Step 2: Building Flavor
Next, introduce the sliced carrots and chopped celery to the pot. Sauté these vegetables for about 5 minutes to bring out their natural sweetness. Stir in the thyme and ensure it coats the vegetables evenly.
Step 3: Simmering
Pour in the prepared chicken broth and bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Let the mixture cook for around 15 minutes or until the carrots are tender. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Adding Rice and Lemon
Stir the rice into the pot, giving it a good mix. Continue to simmer for another 15 minutes. The rice should be tender, yet slightly firm. Squeeze the juice from the lemons, and add this to the pot, stirring well. The citric acid from the lemons will brighten the broth and complement the other ingredients.
Step 5: Incorporating Egg Yolks
To create a creamy texture without cream, beat the egg yolks and slowly temper them with a ladle of the hot broth. Once tempered, gently stir the yolk mixture back into the soup. This technique enriches the soup and binds the flavors.
Cooking Time
Please ensure you’re keeping an eye on your cooking time to achieve the best results with texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Once your Pražská Citronačka is ready, ladle it into bowls while it’s still steaming hot. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and additional herbal aroma. Serve it alongside crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.
This soup pairs beautifully with a light white wine or a zesty lemonade, enhancing its citrus notes. For a communal dining experience, place the soup pot in the center of the table and allow guests to serve themselves.
With its refreshing and robust flavors, Pražská Citronačka is perfect for brightening any meal, whether as a starter or main course. Enjoy this taste of Prague at your table, and savor the harmonious blend of Mediterranean and Czech culinary traditions.