Beef soup with vegetables

Beef soup with vegetables is a traditional dish, cherished in many cultures for its rich flavors and nutrients. This recipe not only offers an unforgettable taste but also a feeling of comfort, making it perfect for chilly days. The soup is often associated with beautiful moments spent with family, and its preparation can become a true culinary art.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total time: 2 hours
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients

- 500 g beef (cubed)
- 1 large onion
- 3 stalks of celery
- 2 carrots
- 1 parsley root
- 1 cup boiled corn
- 1 cup peas
- a few cauliflower florets
- 1 cup dried beans (cooked)
- 3 potatoes (cubed)
- chopped lovage (to taste)
- salt (to taste)
- pepper (to taste)
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- 200 g tomato paste (or one cup of crushed tomatoes)

Preparation

1. Preparing the meat: Start by boiling the beef. Place the cubed meat in a large pot, add cold water and a teaspoon of salt. Boil for about 1 hour over medium heat, skimming off the foam that forms on the surface. This step will ensure tender and flavorful meat.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot, add the olive oil and sauté the finely chopped onion until it becomes translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Sautéed onion will add extra flavor to your soup.

3. Adding the vegetables: Once the onion is sautéed, add the finely chopped celery, carrots, and parsley, all cut into cubes or rounds. Sauté them together with the onion for 5-10 minutes. This step is essential for intensifying the flavors.

4. Combining the ingredients: Add the boiled meat to the pot with vegetables. Then, add the cubed potatoes, boiled corn, peas, cauliflower florets, and cooked beans. All these will combine to create a rich and textured soup.

5. Seasoning: Pour enough water to cover all the ingredients and add salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer on low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure that the ingredients do not stick to the bottom of the pot.

6. Finishing: Ten minutes before turning off the heat, add the tomato paste or crushed tomatoes. These will provide an intense flavor and vibrant color to the soup. Also, add the chopped lovage for a fresh and aromatic finish.

7. Serving: Let the soup cool slightly before serving. It can be enjoyed on its own or with a slice of fresh bread. A dollop of sour cream can elevate the soup to an even more refined delight.

Practical tips

- For an even richer flavor: You can also add bell peppers or fresh tomatoes, depending on your preferences.
- Variations: If you want a spicier soup, add a little finely chopped hot pepper. You can also experiment with different types of vegetables, such as zucchini or mushrooms.
- Cooling and storage: The soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and can be frozen for later use. Make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in freezing containers.

Nutritional benefits

Beef soup with vegetables is not only delicious but also very nutritious. Beef is an excellent source of protein and iron, essential for muscle and blood health. The vegetables add fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, contributing to a balanced diet. Additionally, the soup is relatively low in calories, making it an excellent choice for a light yet nourishing meal.

Frequently asked questions

- Can chicken or pork be used instead? Yes, you can use chicken or pork, but the cooking time may vary. Chicken requires a shorter boiling time.
- How long can the soup be stored? The soup can be kept in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. If you want to keep it longer, I recommend freezing it.
- Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, frozen vegetables are a convenient alternative and can be added directly to the soup without thawing.

Serving suggestions

For a complete meal, you can pair beef soup with a fresh cabbage salad or a cucumber salad with yogurt. Additionally, a refreshing drink, such as fruit compote or natural juice, would perfectly complement the meal.

Beef soup with vegetables is not just a meal, but a culinary experience that brings people together. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, it will surely be a success. So, gather your ingredients and let’s cook a delicious soup together!

 Ingredients: -500g beef cut into cubes-1 onion-3 stalks of green celery-2 carrots-1 parsley-1 cup of boiled corn-1 cup of peas-a few florets of cauliflower-1 cup of cooked dried beans-3 potatoes cut into cubes-chopped lovage-salt, pepper