Hungarian Chilled Cherry Soup – Refreshing, Sweet, and Tangy
If you’re looking for a refreshing, fruity soup that’s perfect for summer, look no further than Hungarian Chilled Cherry Soup. Known locally as Hideg meggyleves, this soup combines the natural sweetness and slight tartness of fresh cherries with a creamy, lightly spiced base. It’s served cold, making it a light, elegant, and unexpectedly satisfying dish for hot days.
This traditional Hungarian recipe has been enjoyed for generations and works beautifully as a starter, dessert, or even a light snack. Its balance of flavors—sweet, tart, and slightly spiced—makes it a truly unique culinary experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Refreshing and cool, perfect for summer
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Sweet and tangy from fresh cherries
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Simple ingredients yet elegant presentation
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Light and healthy, but rich in flavor
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Can be made ahead, allowing flavors to meld
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
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4 cups fresh or frozen pitted cherries
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3 cups water
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½ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
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1 cinnamon stick
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3 whole cloves
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1 strip of lemon or orange zest (optional)
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1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for slightly thicker texture)
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1 cup sour cream or plain yogurt
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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Fresh mint or extra cherries, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Cherries
In a medium saucepan, combine cherries, water, sugar, cinnamon stick, cloves, and citrus zest if using. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes, until cherries are tender and the flavors have blended.
Step 2: Thicken the Soup (Optional)
If you prefer a slightly thicker soup, mix cornstarch with 2–3 tablespoons of cold water to make a slurry. Gradually stir the slurry into the hot cherry mixture and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly, until it thickens.
Step 3: Cool the Soup
Remove from heat. Allow the soup to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably longer, to serve it chilled.
Step 4: Add Creaminess
Before serving, whisk the sour cream or yogurt with vanilla extract. Slowly stir a portion of the cold cherry soup into the cream to temper it, then combine completely with the rest of the soup. This prevents curdling and ensures a smooth, creamy consistency.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the chilled cherry soup into bowls or cups. Garnish with fresh cherries, a sprig of mint, or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
Tips for the Perfect Hungarian Chilled Cherry Soup
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Use ripe cherries for natural sweetness; frozen cherries work well if out of season
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Balance sweetness and tartness: adjust sugar depending on the cherries’ flavor
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Temper the cream: never add cold cream directly to hot soup
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Make ahead: the soup tastes even better after several hours in the fridge
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Spice subtly: cinnamon and cloves should enhance, not overpower, the cherries
Variations
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Vegan version: Use coconut yogurt or almond yogurt instead of sour cream
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Extra tart: Add a splash of lemon juice
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Spiced twist: Add a pinch of ground cardamom or ginger
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Smooth texture: Blend the soup completely for a creamy, dessert-like consistency
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Alcohol infusion: Add a splash of cherry liqueur for an adult version
Serving Suggestions
Hungarian Chilled Cherry Soup can be served:
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As a starter for a summer meal
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As a dessert, optionally with a dollop of whipped cream
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With a side of shortbread cookies or biscuits
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In small glasses for elegant entertaining
Storage
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Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days
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Stir before serving as the cherries may settle
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Do not freeze, as the texture of the cream may separate
Why This Recipe Works
The combination of fresh cherries, gentle spices, and creamy yogurt or sour cream creates a balance of sweetness, acidity, and richness. Chilling the soup allows the flavors to meld beautifully, producing a refreshing and sophisticated dish that’s uniquely Hungarian.
Final Thoughts
Hungarian Chilled Cherry Soup is a light, elegant, and flavorful dish that surprises and delights with every spoonful. Perfect for hot weather, casual lunches, or festive dinners, it’s a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed as a starter, dessert, or even a refreshing snack. Its bright color, creamy texture, and balanced flavors make it a true summer favorite.