Veal soup with dumplings

Veal soup with dumplings is a classic recipe that brings comfort and warmth on cool days. This delicious combination of tender meat, fresh vegetables, and fluffy dumplings is perfect for enjoying with loved ones. This soup is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients, and preparing it will quickly become a cherished activity, enveloped in nostalgia and joy.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

For the soup:
- 500 g sliced veal
- 1 large carrot
- 1 parsley root
- 1 parsnip
- 30 g celery
- 1 onion
- 1 cube or 1 teaspoon of beef concentrate
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons of oil
- Salt and pepper to taste

For the dumplings:
- 1 egg
- 6-7 tablespoons of semolina
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
- 2-3 drops of vinegar (to activate the baking soda)

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the soup
1. Boiling the meat: Start by washing the veal well. Place it in a large pot and add 4 liters of cold water. Add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor. Put the pot on low heat and let it simmer slowly. It is important not to boil the soup on high heat to achieve tender and juicy meat.

2. Preparing the vegetables: Meanwhile, peel and wash the vegetables. All the vegetables (carrot, parsley, parsnip, celery, and onion) can be added whole to the pot with the soup. This will allow the flavors to develop and integrate into the soup.

3. Slow boiling: Let the vegetables simmer in the soup for 30-40 minutes, covered, on low heat. This method will allow the vegetables to release their flavors, resulting in a rich and tasty soup.

Step 2: Preparing the dumplings
1. Dumpling mixture: In a small bowl, crack an egg and add the baking soda activated with a few drops of vinegar, salt, pepper, and oil. Mix well with a fork.

2. Adding semolina: Start adding the semolina gradually, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Let the mixture rest until the soup is ready.

Step 3: Finishing the soup
1. Checking the meat: When the meat becomes tender, add the sugar and the beef concentrate cube for extra flavor. Adjust the taste with salt if necessary.

2. Adding the dumplings: Using a spoon, form small dumplings from the prepared mixture and carefully place them in the soup. The dumplings will initially sink, but when they are ready, they will float to the surface. Make sure the soup is not boiling vigorously, but just simmering gently, to allow the dumplings to puff up correctly.

3. Resting the dumplings: Once the dumplings are ready, let them sit in the hot soup, covered, for a few minutes. This will help them become even fluffier.

4. Adding greens: Before serving, add finely chopped fresh parsley to give the soup an extra freshness.

Step 4: Serving
1. Heating the soup: Before serving, heat the soup well. Then, place in the serving bowl the meat, dumplings, soup, and sprinkle fresh greens on top.

2. Serving suggestion: Veal soup with dumplings pairs wonderfully with a slice of fresh bread spread with butter. A warm drink, such as herbal tea or a dry white wine, can perfectly complement the meal.

Nutritional benefits
Veal soup is an excellent source of protein and essential nutrients. Veal contains B vitamins, which are important for energy metabolism and nervous system health. The vegetables in the soup provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making this dish a healthy and nourishing choice.

Possible variations
- Adding noodles: You can replace the dumplings with homemade noodles for a different version.
- A spicier soup: Add a few peppercorns or a pinch of chili for a more intense flavor.
- Diverse vegetables: Replace the vegetables with your favorites, such as zucchini or green beans, to add variety.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use beef from another part? Yes, you can also use other cuts of beef, such as the back or neck, but these may require a longer cooking time to become tender.
2. How do I store the soup for the next day? The soup can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days or frozen for later consumption.
3. Can I make the soup without meat? Absolutely! You can prepare a rich vegetable soup, and the dumplings will be just as delicious.

Veal soup with dumplings is more than just a recipe; it is a culinary experience that brings family and friends together. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 500 g sliced veal breast, 1 carrot, 1 parsley root, 1 parsnip, 30 g celery, 1 onion, 1 cube/teaspoon beef concentrate, 1 teaspoon sugar, 1 bunch of fresh parsley, 2 tablespoons oil, 1 egg, 6-7 tablespoons semolina, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, salt, pepper