25
Nov
East German Solyanka Soup – History, Authentic Recipe & Where to Buy
If you love hearty soups with a touch of history, East German Solyanka soup is a dish you shouldn’t miss. This vibrant, slightly sour soup made its way from Eastern Europe into East Germany (the former GDR) during the Soviet era and became a true comfort food. Today, it’s still popular in Germany, especially in the East, and is enjoyed as both a homemade dish and a ready-to-eat soup.In this article, we’ll explore the origins of Solyanka, share an authentic East German Solyanka recipe you can cook at home, and show you where to buy ready-made Solyanka and seasoning mixes online.
Classic East German Solyanka soup served with lemon, sour cream, and fresh herbs
A Brief History of Solyanka in East Germany
Solyanka originated in Russia and Ukraine as a rustic, hearty soup featuring meat, pickled cucumbers, tomatoes, and a touch of sour cream. When Soviet soldiers and workers came to East Germany after World War II, they brought this dish with them.
Over time, Solyanka became a staple in GDR kitchens, served in factory canteens, railway dining cars, and even at family celebrations. The East German version is slightly milder than the original Russian one but keeps the characteristic tomato-pickle-sour flavor.
Authentic East German Solyanka Recipe
This recipe recreates the classic GDR-style Solyanka you might have tasted in East German households or train dining cars. The soup is rich, warming, and has that unmistakable sweet-and-sour taste.
Ingredients (for about 6 servings)
- 300 g (10.5 oz) smoked pork (Kasseler) or ham, diced
- 200 g (7 oz) cooked sausage (e.g., German Jagdwurst), sliced
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2–3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1–2 carrots, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 medium pickled cucumbers, diced (plus 2–3 tbsp of the pickle brine)
- 1 can (400 g / 14 oz) chopped tomatoes
- 1 L (4 cups) beef or vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tsp paprika (sweet)
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Lemon slices for serving
- 150 g (5 oz) sour cream or Schmand for garnish
- Fresh parsley or green onions for topping
Instructions
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic; sauté until soft and lightly golden.
- Stir in carrots and bell pepper, cook for 3–4 minutes.
- Add smoked pork and sausage; cook briefly to develop flavor.
- Stir in tomato paste and cook for another 1–2 minutes.
- Pour in the chopped tomatoes and broth; add bay leaf, paprika, and the pickle brine.
- Simmer gently for about 25–30 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
- Just before serving, add the diced pickled cucumbers and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish each serving with a lemon slice, a generous dollop of sour cream, and sprinkle with fresh parsley or green onions.
Tip: The soup tastes even better the next day, as the flavors develop further overnight.
Shortcut: Cook Solyanka the Easy Way
Not everyone has the time to cook from scratch. For a quick and tasty Solyanka, try these convenient options available at GermanBuy.net:
- Maggi Fix & Fresh Solyanka Seasoning Mix – a simple seasoning blend that helps you recreate the authentic taste at home in less time.
- Ready-to-Eat Solyanka Soup with Kasseler and Cucumber – perfect for a quick meal that still captures the traditional East German flavor.
By featuring these products, you can bring a piece of East German culinary history right to your table, no matter where you live.
Serving Ideas and Pairings
- Fresh rye bread or sourdough bread
- A glass of chilled beer or a crisp white wine
- Extra sour cream on the side
This soup works equally well as a hearty starter or as a main course, especially in colder months.
FAQs about East German Solyanka Soup
Is Solyanka spicy?
Not usually. East German Solyanka is mildly seasoned with paprika, not hot peppers.
What is Solyanka soup made of?
Solyanka is made with a tomato-based broth, smoked pork or sausage, pickled cucumbers, vegetables, and often served with lemon and sour cream.
What makes Solyanka soup so unique?
The combination of smoky meat, tangy pickles, and a slightly sour, tomato-rich broth gives Solyanka its distinctive flavor.
Is Solyanka healthy?
It’s relatively hearty but can be part of a balanced diet, especially when prepared with lean meats and plenty of vegetables.
What is the meaning of Solyanka?
In Russian, “Solyanka” roughly translates to “salty or mixed stew,” reflecting its rustic origins as a dish made with assorted ingredients.
Final Thoughts
Whether you want to explore a classic GDR recipe or try a convenient ready-made option, East German Solyanka soup is a delicious way to experience a piece of culinary history. It’s hearty, tangy, and comforting — a true East German classic that’s now loved worldwide.
Bring a taste of East Germany to your kitchen today — cook it yourself or order ready-made Solyanka and seasoning at GermanBuy.net.
Disclosure: This article contains links to our own products.
