# Baltā Aukstā Zupa ar Kefīru
Baltā aukstā zupa ar kefīru, also known as White Cold Soup with Kefir, is a refreshing and nutritious dish popular in Latvia, especially during the summertime. This chilled soup is not only delicious but also packed with healthy ingredients.
## Ingredients
### Base Ingredients
– **2 cups kefir** (or buttermilk)
– **1 cup water** (or vegetable broth)
– **1 medium cucumber**, finely chopped
– **1 medium radish**, finely sliced
– **2 green onions**, finely chopped
– **1/4 cup fresh dill**, chopped
– **1/4 cup fresh parsley**, chopped
– **1 medium boiled potato**, diced (optional)
– **Salt and black pepper**, to taste
– **1-2 tablespoons lemon juice** (optional)
### Garnish (optional)
– **Boiled eggs**, halved
– **Additional dill or parsley**
## Cooking Instructions
### Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
1. **Wash and Chop**: Begin by washing your cucumber, radish, and herbs thoroughly. Chop the cucumber and radish finely, and slice the green onions. If you are using a boiled potato, peel and dice it.
### Step 2: Mix the Base
1. **Combine the Kefir and Water**: In a large mixing bowl, mix together the kefir and water (or vegetable broth) until combined.
### Step 3: Add Vegetables and Herbs
1. **Incorporate the Vegetables**: Add the chopped cucumber, radish, green onions, and boiled potato (if using) to the kefir mixture.
2. **Add the Herbs**: Stir in the chopped dill and parsley.
### Step 4: Season the Soup
1. **Taste and Adjust**: Add salt, black pepper, and lemon juice (if desired) to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
### Step 5: Chill and Serve
1. **Refrigerate**: Cover the bowl and place the soup in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to chill and allow the flavors to meld.
2. **Serve**: Ladle the chilled soup into bowls and garnish with halved boiled eggs and additional herbs if desired.
## Healthy Aspects of the Recipe
– **Kefir**: Rich in probiotics, kefir supports gut health and boosts the immune system.
– **Cucumbers**: Low in calories and high in water content, they keep you hydrated and help with digestion.
– **Radishes**: Provide antioxidants and promote healthy liver function.
– **Herbs**: Fresh dill and parsley are packed with vitamins A, C, and K, enhancing overall health.
## Popularity
This dish is especially popular in **Latvia**, where cold soups are a staple during the warmer months. It’s ideal for enjoying on a hot day due to its refreshing and light nature.
## Cooking Tips
– For a creamier texture, you can blend the soup for a few seconds before adding the vegetables.
– Adjust the consistency of the soup by varying the amount of water or broth added.
– Experiment with additional toppings like diced avocados or croutons for texture variation.
Enjoy making and savoring this delightful **Baltā Aukstā Zupa ar Kefīru**!