Bilbo's hearty soup

Ingredients for 4 servings:

• 400 g lean smoked pork
• 200 g bacon, streaky
• 200 g potatoes
• 200 g carrot(s)
• 1 stalk(s) leek
• 1 large onion(s)
• ¼ celery root
• 1 can of sauerkraut
• Butter for frying
• 50 ml white wine
• 3 bay leaves
• 1 tsp juniper berries, dried
• salt and pepper
• Tabasco
• Caraway seeds
• broth, instant
• Parsley, chopped
• 4 slices of brown bread

Instructions

Working time approx. 1 hour; Total time approx. 1 hour

Cut the smoked pork and bacon into small pieces (approx. 2 x 2 cm). Brown the entire amount of meat with a little butter at medium heat for about 5 minutes. Then deglaze the pan with a mixture of instant broth (for the ratio of water to instant broth, see manufacturer’s instructions) and the white wine. Let the whole thing simmer gently for about 10 minutes. Meanwhile, cut the potatoes, washed carrots, and trimmed leek into small pieces and add them to the broth with the meat. Coarsely grate the celery and add it to the other vegetables. Stir well, season to taste, and adjust the seasoning to taste. After another 15 minutes, add the sauerkraut, juniper berries, and bay leaves. If desired, add a tablespoon of caraway seeds. Mix all ingredients together. If necessary, add more instant broth and a little more white wine to taste. Let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes. Meanwhile, chop the parsley and toast four slices of brown bread, then place the bread in soup bowls. Before dividing the soup among the bowls, remove the juniper berries and bay leaves. Sprinkle with chopped parsley. Enjoy! This soup is best served with tea or a cold beer. Tip: This soup freezes well! Plan for larger portions when making it.