Rassolnik

Description

Rassolnik is a popular Russian soup with a unique aroma and flavor coming from pickled cucumbers, pearl barley, vegetables such as potatoes, onions, and carrots, fresh herbs, and offal such as chicken liver and beef or pork kidneys. Originally, rassolnik was called kalya and was made with fish instead of offal. It was often prepared as a meal for kings and nobles. Since the 19th century, kalya became rassolnik, and fish was left out of the equation. It is believed that rassolnik has great hangover-curing properties and today, the soup is usually garnished with finely chopped dill and a dollop of sour cream on top.