Soup With Trahana Trahanosoupa Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of homemade trahana soup, where each spoonful feels like a cherished culinary hug straight from a Greek yia-yia’s kitchen.

I adore making filling, cozy dishes, and my soup with trahana (also known as Trahanosoupa) is a mainstay in my kitchen. It’s so full of flavor and good-for-you ingredients that I find it hard to call it just an “everyday soup.” The trahana itself is what most would probably consider a “pasta,” made with fermented grains.

Trahana is a bit tangy, oatmeal-like in texture, and semi-dry, so it needs to be cooked. When paired with chicken broth and roundly flavored ingredients like sweet onions, aromatic garlic, and diced tomatoes, the base of the soup is creamy, dreamy, and full of Mediterranean flavor.

Soup With Trahana Trahanosoupa Recipe Ingredients

• Trahana: Fermented grain rich in carbohydrates; offers a tangy flavor boost.
• Olive Oil: Heart-healthy fat; adds smoothness and subtle richness.
• Onion: Packed with antioxidants; enhances savory depth and sweetness.
• Garlic: Antimicrobial properties; infuses robust and aromatic undertones.
• Tomatoes: High in vitamin C and antioxidants; hint of acidity for balance.
• Feta Cheese: Adds creamy texture and briny contrast; optional garnish.

Soup With Trahana Trahanosoupa Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 1 cup trahana (fermented grain pasta)
• 6 cups water or chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Crumbled feta cheese for garnish (optional)
• Lemon wedges for serving (optional)

How to Make this Soup With Trahana Trahanosoupa Recipe

1. In a large saucepan, warm the olive oil over medium heat.

2. Finely chop the onion and add it to the pan. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

3. Add the garlic, minced, and sauté for another 1 minute until fragrant.

4. Combine the diced tomatoes and allow them to soften while cooking for 2-3 minutes.

5. Add the water or chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.

6. Put the trahana into the pot. Turn the heat down to low and let it slowly simmer for about 20 to 25 minutes, stirring it from time to time.

7. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

8. When the trahana is fully cooked and the soup has thickened, take it off the heat.

9. If desired, crumble feta cheese over the bowls of soup before serving.

10. Lemon wedges add a delicious burst of flavor to this soup, served alongside.

Soup With Trahana Trahanosoupa Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Large saucepan
2. Chef’s knife
3. Cutting board
4. Wooden spoon or spatula
5. Measuring cups
6. Measuring spoons
7. Ladle
8. Bowls for serving

FAQ

• What is trahana?Trahana is a classical pasta, often made from wheat and yogurt or milk, that is used in Greek and Middle Eastern cuisines. Although it is usually associated with those two cultures, a cooking technique similar to that used to make trahana is found in the cuisines of many other cultures around the Mediterranean and in the Middle East.
• Can I use a different broth?You can indeed use any of the following, depending on what you prefer for flavor: water, chicken broth, or vegetable broth.
• How long does it take to cook trahanosoupa?Soup generally cooks for around 15-20 minutes until the trahana is soft and you can eat it.
• Can I make this soup vegan?Absolutely, substitute the chicken broth for vegetable broth and leave out the feta cheese in order to keep it a vegan dish.
• What can I add for extra flavor?Adding herbs is an excellent way to build flavor in your beans. You can add herbs like thyme or oregano, a bay leaf during simmering, or a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
• How should I serve trahanosoupa?Present the dish hot, accompanied by crumbled feta cheese, a drizzle of olive oil, and, optionally, a lemon wedge.
• Can I store leftovers?Absolutely, you can store any uneaten portions in the fridge, so long as they’re in an airtight container. They’ll be safe to eat for 3 days maximum. Reheat on the stove with a splash of water, if necessary.

Soup With Trahana Trahanosoupa Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Try using orzo or couscous in place of trahana.
Use vegetable broth instead of water or chicken broth for a vegetarian option.
In the absence of olive oil, you can utilize either vegetable oil or melted butter.
For a milder flavor, shallots can substitute the small onion.
In the absence of fresh garlic, 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder serves well.
For the chopped tomatoes, you might try tomato puree or fresh cherry tomatoes.
If feta cheese is not available, try using goat cheese or ricotta cheese to garnish.

Pro Tips

1. Toasting Trahana Before adding the trahana to the soup, try lightly toasting it in a dry pan for a couple of minutes until it releases a nutty aroma. This adds depth and a richer flavor to the dish.

2. Enhanced Aromatics For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a sprig of fresh thyme or rosemary when sautéing the onion and garlic.

3. Richer Broth If you are using chicken broth, opt for a low-sodium version so you can better control the saltiness. Moreover, consider simmering a bay leaf along with the broth for added depth.

4. Tomato Boost If using canned tomatoes, try incorporating a tablespoon of tomato paste for additional richness. Allow it to cook for a minute or two with the garlic before adding the broth.

5. Garnish Variations Besides feta cheese, consider garnishing the soup with freshly chopped herbs such as parsley or dill. This will enhance both the flavor and the presentation of your dish.