Beef soup with tarragon
Beef Soup with Tarragon – A Warm and Comforting Delight
Beef soup with tarragon is a recipe that evokes memories of warm family Sunday meals. This soup is not only a delicious dish but also a treasure of culinary tradition, symbolizing comfort and a well-cooked meal. So, let’s embark on a culinary adventure together, step by step, to create a soup that will fill your home with enticing aromas.
Preparation time: 25 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 55 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Necessary ingredients
- 600 g beef for soup (preferably chuck or neck)
- 300 g carrots (about 3 medium-sized)
- 200 g celery (about one small celery root)
- 300 g potatoes (about 2 large ones)
- 100 g bell pepper (1 large pepper)
- 160 g peeled tomatoes (canned, preferably CIRIO brand for an authentic taste)
- 1 small onion
- A bunch of fresh parsley
- 3-4 tablespoons chopped fresh tarragon (or 1 tablespoon dried tarragon)
- 2 beef bouillon cubes
- 1 teaspoon dehydrated vegetables (optional, for extra flavor)
- Thyme to taste
- Salt to taste
- Water (about 2 liters)
A bit of history
Beef soup is a dish that has been cooked in many corners of the world, adapting to local ingredients and preferences. Over time, each housewife has added a personal touch to the recipe, and tarragon has become an essential ingredient that lends a unique taste and refined aroma. It is recognized not only for its flavor but also for its digestive properties.
Step by step to a perfect soup
Step 1: Preparing the meat
1. Start by washing the beef well under cold running water. Cut it into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
2. Place the meat in a large pot and add about 2 liters of water. Set the pot over medium heat and bring it to a boil.
3. Once the water starts boiling, remove the foam that forms on the surface with a skimmer. This step is essential for achieving a clear and tasty broth.
Step 2: Adding the vegetables
1. While the meat is boiling, finely chop the onion, carrots, and celery. It’s best to use a sharp knife to make this process easier.
2. After about 1 hour of boiling the meat, add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Continue to simmer on low heat, partially covering the pot with a lid to allow the flavors to blend.
Step 3: Adding the remaining ingredients
1. After another 20 minutes, add the diced bell pepper and potatoes. These vegetables will add a pleasant texture and make the soup more filling.
2. Add the peeled tomatoes, beef bouillon cubes, and dehydrated vegetables. These ingredients will enhance the flavor and boost the taste of the meat.
3. Season with salt and thyme to taste. Be mindful of the amount to avoid overpowering the natural flavor of the ingredients.
Step 4: Finishing the soup
1. About 5 minutes before turning off the heat, add the chopped tarragon. If you like, you can also add a bit of freshly chopped parsley when serving for an extra touch of freshness.
2. Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings if necessary. This is where you can experiment by adding a bit of pepper or even a squeeze of lemon juice to intensify the flavor.
Step 5: Serving
1. Serve the soup hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or crunchy croutons. A dollop of cooking cream can add a delicious creaminess if desired.
2. A wonderful idea is to pair the soup with a dry white wine or a pale ale, which will perfectly complement the flavors of this recipe.
Helpful tips
- Slow cooking: Beef soup becomes even tastier if allowed to simmer longer. If you have the time, you can let the soup cook on low heat for 2 hours.
- Variations: You can add other seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini or green beans, to diversify the recipe. You can also try substituting beef with chicken.
- Freezing: The soup freezes very well. So, you can prepare a larger batch and divide it into portions for later consumption.
Nutritional benefits
This beef soup recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. Beef is an excellent source of protein and iron, essential for the body’s health. The vegetables add vitamins, minerals, and fiber, contributing to a balanced diet. Additionally, tarragon is known for its digestive and anti-inflammatory properties.
Frequently asked questions
1. How long can I keep the soup in the refrigerator?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an airtight container.
2. Can I use frozen beef?
Yes, it is recommended to thaw the meat before cooking to ensure even cooking.
3. Is this recipe suitable for diets?
The soup is low in calories, and by adjusting the amount of meat and adding more vegetables, it can be an excellent option for a healthy diet.
In conclusion, beef soup with tarragon is a simple yet flavorful recipe rich in tradition. With every spoonful, you will feel the warmth and love from the kitchen. So gather the ingredients, put on an apron, and let’s cook together! Perhaps in the end, you will create not just a meal but also beautiful memories with your loved ones.
Ingredients: Ingredients for 6-8 servings: 600 g beef for soup (that's what it says on the package, ready to use) 300 g carrots (about 3 pieces) 200 g celery 300 g potatoes (2 pieces) 100 g bell pepper 160 g canned diced tomatoes with juice (CIRIO brand) one small onion a bunch of parsley 3-4 tablespoons of chopped tarragon 2 beef-flavored bouillon cubes a teaspoon of dehydrated vegetables thyme, salt
