Meat soup with whole tomatoes
Meat and Whole Tomato Soup
When it comes to comfort food, meat and whole tomato soup holds a special place in our hearts. It is a recipe that brings together tradition and authentic flavor, offering a hearty and aromatic meal, perfect for a chilly day or to celebrate moments spent with loved ones. Besides being a simple recipe, it can be customized according to everyone's preferences. Let's discover step by step how to prepare a delicious meat and tomato soup!
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients:
- 300 g lean beef or pork
- 1 large potato
- 1 carrot
- 1 parsnip
- 1 onion
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red for extra color)
- 1 can of whole tomatoes in juice (about 400 g)
- 500 ml borscht (preferably homemade, but store-bought is fine)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Fresh lovage leaves, for serving
Preparation:
1. Preparing the meat: Start by washing the meat well under cold running water. Then, cut the meat into cubes of about 2-3 cm. This size will allow for even cooking.
2. Boiling the meat: Place the meat in a large pot and cover it with cold water. Bring the water to a boil over medium heat. As the water begins to boil, you will notice foam forming on the surface. It is important to skim the soup a few times with a ladle to remove impurities and achieve a cleaner taste.
3. Adding the vegetables: After the meat has been skimmed, add the vegetables. Cut the potato into cubes, the carrot and parsnip into rounds, and the onion and bell pepper into smaller pieces. These vegetables will add not only flavor but also a pleasant texture to the soup.
4. Cooking the vegetables: Let the soup simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes, until the vegetables become tender. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent the ingredients from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
5. Adding the tomatoes: Now is the time to add the whole tomatoes in juice. If you prefer a slightly sour soup, you can also add a bit of tomato juice. These will bring a rich flavor and vibrant color to the soup.
6. Seasoning: Add salt and pepper to taste, then pour in the separately boiled borscht. If you prefer a more sour soup, feel free to add more borscht. Let the soup simmer for another 10 minutes to blend the flavors.
7. Serving: When the soup is ready, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. Serve it hot, sprinkled with chopped fresh lovage leaves. The lovage will add a unique aroma that will transform each serving into an unforgettable culinary experience.
Practical tips:
- You can also add other vegetables, such as celery or zucchini, to diversify the flavor.
- If you prefer a heartier soup, you can add some beans or peas.
- The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, and the flavor improves as it sits.
- This soup pairs perfectly with a slice of fresh bread, spread with butter or with warm polenta.
Nutritional benefits:
This meat and tomato soup is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Lean meat provides essential nutrients, while the vegetables contribute a rich supply of fiber, aiding in healthy digestion. Tomatoes are high in antioxidants and vitamin C, helping to boost the immune system.
Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use chicken instead of pork or beef? Yes, chicken will cook faster and provide a different but equally delicious flavor.
- How can I make the soup spicier? You can add hot peppers or a pinch of spicy paprika.
- What can I use instead of borscht? You can use lemon juice or white wine vinegar, but the soup will have a different flavor profile.
Possible variations:
- You can transform this recipe into a vegetarian soup by omitting the meat and adding tofu for protein.
- Experiment with different types of tomatoes, such as cherry tomatoes for added sweetness.
- Depending on the season, you can use fresh garden vegetables to achieve an authentic-tasting soup.
This meat and whole tomato soup will not only warm you on chilly days but will also bring a touch of tradition into your life. Enjoy your meal and happy cooking!
Ingredients: 300g lean meat, 1 large potato, 1 carrot, 1 parsnip, 1 onion, 1 bell pepper, 1 can of tomatoes in broth, 500 ml of borscht, salt, pepper, lovage leaves
