Hungary-Cold Cherry Soup
A refreshing Hungarian cold cherry soup with sweet-tart flavors, perfect for summer gatherings and those who enjoy fruity, creamy desserts with a hint of mint.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Empty the can of cherries into a strainer over a pan.
- Push the cherries through the strainer, mashing them in a blender if necessary.
- Add water and cook over medium heat until the mixture starts to boil.
- Mix cornstarch and sugar with a little water to make a slurry.
- Add the cornstarch mixture to the soup.
- Cook for 10 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Add lemon juice and stir to combine.
- Pour the soup into a bowl and chill in the refrigerator.
- Serve cold with a spoonful of sour cream and a few mint leaves.
Tips & Substitutions
For a thicker soup, increase the cornstarch or blend more cherries for a smoother texture. You can substitute the stoneless cherries with fresh cherries or frozen cherries if needed, adjusting the sugar based on their sweetness. If you prefer a dairy-free version, use coconut cream instead of sour cream. Adding a pinch of cinnamon can enhance the flavor too.
Serving Suggestions
This cold cherry soup is delightful as a refreshing appetizer or dessert. It pairs beautifully with a slice of Brown Soda Bread or can be enjoyed alongside a light salad for a more substantial meal. Garnish with additional mint leaves or a swirl of sour cream for an elegant presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The soup can be served cold straight from the fridge. If you prefer it slightly warmer, gently reheat it on the stove over low heat, stirring to avoid curdling the sour cream if added.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hungary-Cold Cherry Soup contains roughly 137 calories, with 4g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (15% of the Daily Value) and calcium (12% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen cherries instead of canned?
Yes, frozen cherries work well for this recipe. Just thaw them and drain any excess liquid before using, and you may need to adjust the sugar based on their sweetness.
How long does the soup need to chill?
Chill the soup for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the soup to reach a refreshing temperature.
Can I make this soup a day in advance?
Absolutely! Making the soup a day ahead can enhance the flavors. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator and give it a good stir before serving.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).