Photo from fitlap.ee

Leivasupp, or Estonian bread soup, is a unique and traditional dessert soup made from dark rye bread, spices, and dried fruits. This sweet and hearty dish is a beloved part of Estonian cuisine, offering a comforting and nostalgic taste that evokes the warmth of home.

Ingredients:

0.5 lb (0.23 kg) dark rye bread, cubed

6 cups (1.4 liters) water

1/2 cup (0.25 lb / 0.11 kg) sugar

1/2 cup (0.25 lb / 0.11 kg) raisins

1/2 cup (0.25 lb / 0.11 kg) dried apples or apricots, chopped

1 cinnamon stick (0.07 oz / 2 g)

1 teaspoon (0.18 oz / 5 g) ground cloves

1 teaspoon (0.18 oz / 5 g) vanilla extract

Pinch of salt

Instructions:

Prepare the Bread:

In a large pot, bring the water to a boil. Add the cubed rye bread to the boiling water, reduce the heat, and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the bread is soft and mushy.

Add Ingredients:

Add the sugar, raisins, dried apples or apricots, cinnamon stick, ground cloves, and a pinch of salt to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

Simmer:

Continue to simmer the mixture on low heat for another 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the dried fruits are plump and the flavors have melded together.

Blend and Finish:

Remove the cinnamon stick. Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, let the soup cool slightly and blend in batches in a regular blender. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Serving:

Serve Leivasupp warm or chilled, garnished with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It can be enjoyed as a dessert or a hearty snack.

Leivasupp is a delightful and comforting Estonian bread soup that transforms simple ingredients into a rich and flavorful dessert. This traditional recipe is perfect for those looking to explore the unique and heartwarming flavors of Estonian cuisine. Enjoy a bowl of Leivasupp and savor the taste of tradition.