Beef soup
Beef soup with vegetables - a traditional recipe full of flavor
Beef soup with vegetables is one of those recipes that reminds us of family meals, of moments spent together, and of the aromas that entice our senses. This soup, rich in nutrients and with a delicious taste, is ideal for both cool autumn lunches and the colder winter evenings. There is nothing more comforting than a steaming bowl of soup that embraces us with warmth.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 6
Your ingredients for a delicious soup:
- 700 g beef (ideally from the chest or neck, which is juicier)
- 3 large potatoes
- 2 carrots
- 1 small celery (or a quarter of a large celery)
- 2 peppers (preferably one red and one green for a splash of color)
- 1 large onion
- 2 ripe tomatoes (or a can of diced tomatoes)
- 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
- A bunch of fresh parsley
- A bunch of fresh lovage
- 1 liter of borscht (or more, depending on preference)
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- Salt, to taste
- Optional: 100 g peas (fresh or frozen)
Useful tips about ingredients:
To achieve a soup with a rich flavor, it is essential to choose quality beef. Beef from the chest is ideal as it is more marbled and becomes extremely tender after boiling. Ensure that the vegetables are fresh – this will significantly influence the flavor of your soup. If you have other vegetables on hand, such as zucchini or green beans, you can add them for extra flavor and nutrients.
Preparing beef soup - simple steps for a perfect result:
1. Start by washing the beef well, then place it in a large pot with cold water and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. This will help develop the flavors.
2. Meanwhile, prepare the vegetables. Peel and wash the carrots, then cut them into small cubes. Chop the onion finely, and slice the peppers. The tomatoes can be diced or grated, depending on your preference. Grate the celery, and cut the potatoes into slightly larger cubes.
3. When the meat is almost cooked, add the chopped vegetables to the pot. Let them boil together with the meat for another 15-20 minutes. Check the consistency of the vegetables from time to time.
4. After the vegetables have started to soften, add the tomato paste. This will add a beautiful color and intense flavor to your soup.
5. In another pot, bring the borscht to a boil with a pinch of salt and a teaspoon of thyme. Once the borscht has boiled, add it to the pot with meat and vegetables. Let the soup boil together for about 10-15 minutes.
6. Finally, add the chopped lovage and parsley. This trick will keep the vibrant green color of the herbs and add a fresh note to the soup. Turn off the heat and let it cool slightly.
7. Serve the soup hot, with a spoonful of sour cream on top for extra creaminess and flavor. This will make the dish truly special.
Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use pork or chicken instead of beef?
Of course! You can adapt the recipe to your preferences, but keep in mind that the taste will be different. Beef soup has a distinct flavor profile due to the beef.
2. How can I make the soup spicier?
If you like it spicy, you can add a hot pepper while boiling or a pinch of dried chili powder.
3. Can I make the soup in advance?
Absolutely! Beef soup keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days and, in fact, the flavor gets even better as the ingredients meld together. You can freeze it for later consumption.
Possible variations:
- You can add a tablespoon of rice or small pasta during boiling to turn the soup into a heartier main dish.
- Add some strips of fresh cabbage in the last minutes of cooking for a different texture and extra nutrients.
Nutrition and benefits:
Beef soup with vegetables is an excellent choice for a healthy meal. Beef is a good source of protein, iron, and B vitamins, while the vegetables provide fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Additionally, the borscht adds a healthy sour flavor, rich in probiotics that support digestion.
Delicious pairings:
This soup pairs perfectly with a slice of fresh whole grain bread or crunchy croutons. You can also enjoy the soup alongside a glass of white or red wine that complements the rich flavors of the dish.
Personal notes:
I fondly remember the beef soup prepared by my grandmother, who always added a secret touch of love to every pot. This recipe is not just about ingredients; it's also about the memories that connect us to our loved ones. Whether you prepare it for family or a special occasion, each serving tells a story. So, I encourage you to enjoy every step of the cooking process and bring a bit of your soul into every bowl of soup.
So, don’t wait any longer! Put on your apron, gather the ingredients, and prepare a delicious beef soup with vegetables. Your soup will surely become a favorite dish in any season!
Ingredients: -700 g beef - 3 potatoes - 2 carrots - celery - 2 bell peppers - 1 onion - 2 tomatoes - 1 tablespoon broth - bunch of parsley - bunch of lovage - borscht - thyme - salt (optional - peas)
