Beef soup

Beef soup with vegetables - A traditional recipe full of flavor and goodness!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Beef soup is a classic dish that combines the natural flavors of beef with the freshness of vegetables, resulting in a nourishing and comforting soup. This recipe stands out for its simplicity of ingredients and how each component contributes to the final taste. The soup is often considered a symbol of hospitality, lovingly served at numerous festive meals or on quiet winter days when we want to indulge in a steaming bowl of goodness.

Ingredients:

- 1 kg beef with bone (preferably from the shank or brisket for a rich flavor)
- 500 g mixed vegetables (carrot, bell pepper, potato, celery, green beans, etc.)
- 2 large onions
- 1 egg
- 1 packet of borscht (about 10 g, sufficient for 4 liters of water)
- 5 liters of water
- Fresh lovage (to add an aromatic note)
- 0.5 liters of tomatoes with peppers and celery leaves
- Salt, to taste

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by washing the beef well under cold running water. Then, place the meat in a large pot, adding about 5 liters of water. Add a little salt to enhance the flavors. Bring the water to a boil and skim the surface to remove any foam. This step is essential for obtaining a clear and appetizing soup.

2. Cutting the meat: Once the meat is boiled, remove it from the pot and let it cool slightly. When it is cool enough to handle, cut the meat into cubes of about 2-3 cm. This will ensure an even distribution of meat in the soup.

3. Preparing the vegetables: While the meat cools, prepare the vegetables. If using frozen vegetables, make sure to let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before adding them. Chop the onion finely and add it to the pot with water and meat, allowing it to boil together.

4. Adding the vegetables: After about 20 minutes, when the onion becomes slightly translucent, add the diced vegetables. It is important that the vegetables are cut to similar sizes for even cooking. Carrots, potatoes, and celery add natural sweetness, while bell peppers and green beans provide a pleasant texture.

5. Cooking the soup: After adding the vegetables, let the soup simmer over medium heat for 15-20 minutes, until the vegetables are tender but not too soft. Then, add the tomatoes with peppers and celery leaves, which will add a fresh taste and vibrant color to the soup.

6. Finalizing the soup: Once everything is well cooked, add the borscht from the packet and let it boil again. This will bring a pleasant acidity, characteristic of soups. Before removing the pot from the heat, beat an egg in a separate bowl and, while constantly stirring the soup, add the beaten egg. This will slightly thicken the soup and give it a delicate texture.

7. Seasoning: Finally, add the chopped fresh lovage and adjust the salt to taste. Lovage adds a wonderful aroma and a unique flavor that will transform your soup into a memorable dish.

Serving suggestions:

Serve the beef soup hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or crunchy croutons. A squeeze of lemon or a teaspoon of sour cream can add an extra layer of flavor. For a touch of freshness, you can sprinkle a little fresh lovage on top before serving.

Variations:

If you want to experiment, you can add other seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini or mushrooms. You could also replace the beef with chicken for a lighter version.

Nutritional benefits:

Beef soup is not only tasty but also nourishing. Beef is an excellent source of protein and iron, essential for maintaining energy. The vegetables add vitamins and minerals, contributing to a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use boneless beef? Yes, you can use boneless beef, but the bone adds a richer flavor to the soup.
- How can I make the soup more sour? You can add more borscht or a few drops of lemon juice.
- How long can the soup be stored? The soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can freeze it for later consumption.

Whether you prepare it for a family meal or to treat yourself after a long day, this beef soup is the perfect choice. Cooking is about love, and every spoonful of this soup will remind you of warm meals filled with smiles. So put on your apron, prepare your ingredients, and enjoy an unforgettable moment in the kitchen!

 Ingredients: 1 kg beef with bone, 500 g mixed vegetables (carrot, bell pepper, potato, celery, green beans, etc.), 2 onions, 1 egg, 1 packet of borscht, about 10 g, sufficient for 4 liters of water, 5 liters of water, lovage, tomatoes with bell pepper and celery leaves about 0.5 l, salt

 Tags:  beef soup