Beef soup

Beef Soup – Comfort in a Bowl

Today we turn our attention to a classic recipe, a true symbol of Romanian cooking: beef soup. It is that dish that embraces you with its warm and rich flavors, perfect for regenerating your energy after a long night of fun. Beef soup has a long and varied history, being adapted based on available ingredients and each family's preferences. With every spoonful, you travel back in time, feeling the warmth of the parental home.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 50 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Essential ingredients:

- 500 g beef ribeye or tenderloin – choose quality meat that is tender and juicy
- 1 large marrow bone – this ingredient will add a deep flavor and authentic taste
- 2 tomatoes – ideally, use ripe, seasonal tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste – for a vibrant color and a more intense flavor
- 2-3 potatoes – choosing starchy potatoes will add a pleasant texture
- 1 onion – preferably white onion for a sweeter taste
- 1 parsnip – gives a unique taste and distinct flavor
- 1 small celery root (about 100g) – enhances the overall aroma of the soup
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley – adds freshness
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh lovage – an ingredient that elevates the soup's flavor
- 2 tablespoons sour borscht powder – for that specific sour taste
- 3 nests of noodles – you can use pasta or noodles, depending on your preference
- 3 liters of water – for a delicious soup base
- Salt and pepper to taste – the perfect seasoning to highlight the flavors

Preparing the soup – simple and effective steps

1. Prepare the meat: Cut the beef into equal-sized cubes. This will help the meat cook evenly. Place it in a large pot along with the marrow bone and add 3 liters of water. Set the pot on medium heat.

2. Boil and remove the foam: Once the water starts to boil, use a skimmer to remove the foam that forms on the surface. This step is essential for obtaining a clear and appetizing soup. After removing the foam, cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 1-2 hours, depending on how quickly the meat cooks.

3. Prepare the vegetables: While the meat is boiling, chop the onion, carrot, celery, and parsnip. Cutting the vegetables into small cubes will help them cook faster and release their flavors. Cut the potatoes into cubes, but make sure to cover them with water to prevent oxidation (darkening).

4. Add the vegetables: Once the meat is tender, add the onion, parsnip, carrot, celery, and chopped tomatoes. Boil on medium heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Potatoes and tomato paste: After 10 minutes, add the cubed potatoes and let it boil for another 10 minutes. Then, add the tomato paste and let it boil for another 5 minutes. This will give a richer taste and a pleasant hue to the soup.

6. Season: Add the sour borscht powder, stir well to dissolve, and boil for another 5 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasonings with salt and pepper as desired. It is always better to add seasonings gradually to avoid making the soup too salty.

7. Noodles: Add the noodles and boil them according to the instructions on the package to ensure they are perfectly cooked.

8. Finishing the soup: When the noodles are ready, add the chopped parsley and lovage, stirring gently to combine the flavors. Turn off the heat and let the soup cool for 10 minutes before serving.

9. Serving: Beef soup is served hot, with a spoonful of sour cream in the bowl, alongside a slice of fresh homemade bread and, for those who love spice, a hot pepper. This combination will add extra flavor and transform every meal into an unforgettable culinary experience.

Nutritional benefits and calories

Beef soup is not only delicious but also very nutritious. Beef is an excellent source of protein, while the vegetables add essential vitamins and fiber. A serving of soup (approximately 250 ml) contains about 200-250 calories, depending on the ingredients used and the amount of sour cream added. It is a hearty dish, perfect for energizing your day.

Possible variations

If you want to customize the recipe, you can experiment with various ingredients:

- Substitute beef with chicken or turkey for a lighter version.
- Add seasonal vegetables like zucchini or green beans to diversify the flavors.
- Replace noodles with rice or rice noodles for a gluten-free option.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen meat?
Yes, but it is recommended to thaw it before use to ensure even cooking.

2. How can I store beef soup?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days in an airtight container. It can also be frozen for later consumption.

3. Can I add other spices?
Certainly! You can experiment with spices like paprika or herbs to give it a different flavor.

This beef soup recipe is more than just a simple culinary dish; it is an invitation to pleasant memories, to moments spent with loved ones. So, put on your apron, prepare your ingredients, and let yourself be carried away by the evocative aromas of this traditional dish, which will never cease to bring smiles to the faces of those dear to you. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 500 g beef rib or tenderloin; 1 large marrowbone; 2 tomatoes; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 2-3 potatoes; 1 onion; 1 small celery (100g); 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh lovage; 2 tablespoons sour borscht powder; 3 nests of noodles; 3 liters of water; salt and pepper to taste.

 Tags:  soup beef soup beef borscht