Country-style beef soup

Peasant Beef Soup: a traditional recipe full of flavor

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Peasant beef soup is a true symbol of traditional gastronomy, a combination of simple and healthy ingredients that remind us of family meals, the questions around the table, and the stories told with good cheer. This recipe is an excellent way to bring a touch of nostalgia and comfort into your life, and preparing it can become a pleasant activity alongside your loved ones. Here’s how to prepare this delicacy, step by step.

Ingredients
- 1 kg beef (beef meat)
- 1 onion
- 2 carrots
- 1 parsley root
- 1 celery
- 1 bell pepper
- 2 potatoes
- 200 g red cabbage
- 200 g canned beans
- 200 g frozen green peas
- 100 ml oil
- 2 tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons tarragon vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bunch of dried dill
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley

Preparation

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by cleaning and washing all the vegetables. Chop the onion, carrots, parsley root, celery, and bell pepper into small cubes. This will allow the vegetables to cook evenly, adding texture to the soup.

2. Sauté the vegetables
In a large pot, add the oil and let it heat over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, parsley, celery, and bell pepper and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they become slightly translucent. This will enhance the flavors and provide a tasty base for the soup.

3. Add the spices and tomatoes
To the sautéed vegetables, add paprika, salt, tomato paste, and chopped tomatoes. Mix everything well and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes for the flavors to combine.

4. Include the broth base
Pour the beef broth into the pot, then add the diced potatoes and frozen green peas. Let everything simmer over medium heat, covered, until the vegetables are almost cooked (about 15-20 minutes).

5. Adding the beans and cabbage
When the vegetables are nearly done, add the beans (if using canned beans, rinse them well beforehand) and the shredded red cabbage. These ingredients not only add flavor but also a vibrant color to the soup.

6. Finalizing the soup
Once all the ingredients are well combined and cooked, add the tarragon vinegar, pepper, and chopped fresh parsley. Then, incorporate the beef cut into small pieces. Let the soup simmer for another 10-15 minutes for all the flavors to meld.

7. Preparing the beef
To prepare the beef, wash it well, then blanch it in boiling water for 10 minutes. Remove it and boil it separately until it easily pulls away from the bones. This will add extra flavor to your soup.

Chef's tip
If you want the soup to be even creamier and richer, you can add a spoonful of sour cream on top when serving. This will balance the acidity and add a pleasant texture.

Possible variations
- Beef soup with seasonal vegetables: You can adapt the recipe with seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini or green beans.
- Spicy soup: If you like more intense flavors, add a bit of hot pepper or hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Vegetarian soup: Replace the beef with mushrooms or tofu for a delicious vegetarian option.

Ideal combinations
This soup pairs perfectly with a slice of freshly baked homemade bread or warm polenta, which will enhance the flavor and turn the meal into a true celebration of flavors. You can enjoy the soup alongside a glass of dry white wine or a fruit compote, which will add a pleasant contrast to the savory flavors of the soup.

Nutritional benefits
Peasant beef soup is rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals, providing significant nutritional value. Fresh vegetables bring fiber and antioxidants, while beef is an excellent source of iron, essential for blood health.

Frequently asked questions
- How long can the soup be stored? The soup can be kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an airtight container. It can also be frozen for later consumption.
- Can I use chicken instead of beef? Yes, you can adapt the recipe using chicken or even pork, but the cooking time may vary.

Peasant beef soup is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to enjoy moments spent around the table, to share stories, and to create unforgettable memories. So put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and let yourself be carried away by the delicious aromas of this traditional soup! Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 1 kg beef shank [veal] 1 onion 2 carrots 1 parsley 1 celery 1 bell pepper 2 potatoes 200 g red cabbage 200 g canned beans 200 g frozen green peas salt paprika pepper 100 ml oil 2 tomatoes 2 tablespoons tomato paste 2 tablespoons tarragon vinegar 1 piece dried dill fresh parsley

 Tags:  beef shank potatoes red cabbage pea pepper