Beef soup with vegetables and sour cream

Beef soup with vegetables and sour cream – A Delicacy of Flavor

Beef soup is more than just a simple culinary dish; it is a tradition, a symbol of comfort and the joy of being together with loved ones. This recipe combines succulent beef with a variety of fresh vegetables, creating a harmony of flavors that transforms into a true feast for the senses. Whether it's a chilly winter day or simply a family Sunday, this soup will bring smiles to everyone's faces.

Necessary ingredients (for 6 servings)

- 700 g beef tenderloin (or ribeye)
- 2 medium onions
- 3 bell peppers (one red, one yellow, and one green)
- 3 medium carrots
- 1/4 celery
- 2 large tomatoes
- 300 ml tomato juice
- 2 tablespoons vegeta (or a spice mix)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon magic borscht (or lemon juice)
- Fresh herbs (parsley, dill, lovage)
- Homemade noodles (or store-bought)
- 1 lemon (optional)
- Olive oil
- 2-3 bay leaves
- Salt and freshly ground pepper

Preparation time

- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 1 hour
- Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Preparing the Soup Step by Step

Step 1: Preparing the meat

Start by cutting the beef tenderloin into cubes of about 2-3 cm. This size will allow the meat to cook evenly and become tender. Place the meat in a large pot, add 3-4 liters of cold water, and place the pot over medium heat.

As the meat begins to boil, foam will appear on the surface. Use a skimmer to remove this foam. This step is essential for obtaining a clear and delicious soup. Once no more foam forms, add 2-3 bay leaves and a little salt. Let it boil over medium heat for 30-35 minutes.

Helpful tips: Using beef tenderloin or ribeye is recommended due to their tender texture. If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can also add a piece of bone with marrow.

Step 2: Preparing the vegetables

Meanwhile, wash all the vegetables. Peel the onions, and remove the stems and seeds from the peppers and carrots. Chop the onion finely, cut the peppers into cubes, and slice the carrots into rounds. For the celery, cut it into small cubes. Peel the tomatoes (you can do this more easily by dipping them in hot water for a few minutes) and cut them into cubes.

Step 3: Sauté the vegetables

In another pot, add 4-5 tablespoons of olive oil and sauté the onion over low heat. Sauté the onion for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Add the chopped tomatoes and let them cook together for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Combining the ingredients

After the onion and tomatoes have softened, add the peppers, carrots, and celery. Let the vegetables simmer over low heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the tomato paste and mix well. After 5 minutes, strain the meat broth (making sure it doesn't contain impurities) and add the boiled meat.

Step 5: Finalizing the soup

Let the soup simmer over low heat for 15 minutes. Add the tomato juice, noodles, and chopped herbs (parsley, dill, lovage). Let it simmer for another 15-20 minutes until the noodles are cooked. If you feel the soup is too thick, you can add a cup or two of boiling water to adjust the consistency.

Step 6: Serving

Turn off the heat and add the remaining chopped parsley. Cover the soup and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Before serving, you can add a little freshly ground black pepper and, if desired, a few drops of lemon for a touch of freshness.

Serving suggestions

Beef soup is served hot, accompanied by a spoonful of rich sour cream. For those who prefer a spicier taste, add freshly chopped hot pepper. A slice of fresh bread is the ideal accompaniment to savor every spoonful of this delicacy.

Nutritional benefits

Beef soup is rich in protein due to the beef and full of vitamins and minerals from the fresh vegetables. Additionally, fresh herbs add a boost of antioxidants and essential nutrients. It is an excellent choice for a nourishing and comforting meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pork instead of beef?
Yes, beef soup can be adapted with pork, but it will have a different taste. Choose a piece of meat with a decent fat content to obtain a juicier soup.

2. What vegetables can I substitute?
You can experiment with seasonal vegetables or vegetables you have on hand, such as zucchini or cauliflower.

3. How can I make the soup spicier?
Add freshly chopped hot pepper or spicy seasonings during cooking.

4. How long does the soup last?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can freeze it, but it is recommended to consume it fresh for optimal taste.

Recipe variations

Experiment with different types of meat or add vegetables like peas or green beans to diversify the recipe. You can also replace the tomato juice with tomato puree for a unique flavor.

Personal note

This soup reminds me of the days spent with family when my grandmother gathered us all around the table. The aroma of the boiled meat together with the fresh vegetables spread warmth throughout the house. There is nothing more comforting than a bowl of beef soup accompanied by stories and laughter.

Now that you have all the necessary information, I wish you success in cooking and enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: -700 g beef tenderloin-2 medium onions-3 bell peppers (red, yellow, green)-3 medium carrots-1/4 celery-2 tomatoes-300 ml tomato juice-2 tablespoons vegetable seasoning-2 tablespoons tomato paste-1 tablespoon magic sour-vegetables (parsley, dill, lovage)-homemade noodles (or store-bought)-lemon (optional)-olive oil-2-3 bay leaves-salt-pepper