Beef soup

Beef soup with vegetables - A warm hug in every bowl

Beef soup is a traditional dish that brings together enticing flavors and healthy ingredients, making it perfect for cool days or for those moments when you want to indulge in a comforting meal. This recipe is not only simple but also full of flavor, with each ingredient playing an essential role in creating a delicious and nutritious soup. Moreover, preparing it can become a pleasant activity, ideal for spending time with family or friends.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 500 g beef shank
- 1 tray of vegetables (onion, carrot, celery, parsnip, etc.)
- 2 large potatoes
- 1 can of tomatoes in sauce or tomato paste
- 1 egg
- 1-2 tablespoons of oil
- 1 packet of magic borscht
- 1-2 tablespoons of vegeta (or to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Fresh lovage, chopped
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Hot pepper (optional)
- Sour cream (for serving)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the meat:
Start by placing the beef shank in a large pot with cold water. Make sure the water covers the meat well. Add a little salt and put the pot over medium heat. Let the meat boil for about 1 hour, or until tender. Don’t forget to remove the foam that forms on the surface to obtain a clear and tasty broth.

2. Preparing the vegetables:
Meanwhile, chop the vegetables from the tray into small pieces or grate them, depending on your preference. Heat the oil in a pan and sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes until they become slightly golden and release their aromas. This is an essential step as sautéing the vegetables will enhance the soup's flavor.

3. Cutting the meat:
Once the meat is boiled, remove it from the pot and let it cool slightly. Then, cut it into cubes and add it back to the pot with the soup. This step will ensure that every bite is full of flavor.

4. Adding the vegetables:
Add the sautéed vegetables to the pot with the meat and broth. Now is the time to season the soup. Add the magic borscht, vegeta, and pepper to taste. Mix well and let it simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes.

5. Boiling the potatoes and noodles:
In a smaller pot, boil 2 diced potatoes. Also, in another pot, add noodles (preferably wider ones) and boil them according to the instructions on the package. These will add consistency to the soup and make it even more filling.

6. Finalizing the soup:
Once the potatoes and noodles are ready, add them to the pot with the soup. Then, add the can of tomatoes in sauce (or tomato paste) and mix well. Add the chopped lovage and parsley, giving the soup a fresh and vibrant aroma. Finally, beat the egg in a bowl and incorporate it into the soup, stirring quickly to achieve a creamy texture.

7. Serving:
Beef soup is best served hot, alongside a generous spoonful of sour cream and, if you like, with hot pepper for an extra kick. You can add a slice of fresh bread or a pretzel to complete the meal.

Useful tips:
- To achieve a richer soup, you can add other vegetables, such as zucchini or green beans.
- If you prefer a lighter version, you can replace the beef shank with chicken breast or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- This soup keeps very well in the fridge and can be consumed the next day, with the flavor becoming even more intense.

Nutritional benefits:
Beef soup is an excellent source of protein due to the beef, while the vegetables add essential vitamins and minerals. It is a filling meal that provides energy and satiety, making it ideal for a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can experiment with chicken or pork, each variant having a distinct taste.

2. Can beef soup be frozen?
Yes, the soup can be frozen, but it is recommended not to add the noodles before freezing, as they become soft.

3. How can I make the soup more sour?
If you prefer a more sour soup, you can add lemon juice or white wine vinegar, to taste, at the end.

This beef soup recipe will not only warm your heart but also turn every meal into a special occasion. It can become a staple recipe in your culinary repertoire, always bringing joy and satisfaction in every bowl. Enjoy every bite!

 Ingredients: 1/2 kg beef shank, a tray of vegetables (onion, carrot, etc.), magic bors, vegeta, lovage, parsley, 2 potatoes, broth or tomatoes in sauce, 1 egg

 Tags:  beef soup