Pokhlebki

Pokhlebki are strong tasting vegetarian soups eaten as a first course, made only of vegetables and water –no fat is ever used. Each pokhlebka usually contains one dominant vegetable from which it takes its name. Favoured vegetables are aromatic ones with a soft texture, not requiring prolonged cooking. Never use beans, swedes or sauerkraut. Onion and seasoning are always included, usually parsley, dill, celery and garlic. Timing for adding salt varies; add at the beginning to the potato soup, at the end to the lentil pokhlebka and at different stages of the preparation for the others.