Beef soup

Spiced beef soup with fresh vegetables

Beef soup is more than just a simple dish; it is a traditional recipe, full of history and family stories, that reminds us of warm, comforting meals from childhood. Cooking this soup will not only fill the house with delicious aromas but also create unforgettable moments with loved ones. So, get ready to discover the secret of an extraordinary beef soup that will surely become a favorite at your table!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 50 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Basic ingredients:
- 500g beef (preferably shank or neck)
- 1 large onion
- 1 medium potato
- 1 carrot
- 1 celery root
- 1 parsnip
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 green bell pepper
- 1 small zucchini
- 1 cup of sweet milk (for marinating)
- salt (to taste)
- 200g tomato paste
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 1 bunch of fresh lovage
- sour cream (for serving)
- hot pepper (optional, for serving)

Step-by-step preparation:

Step 1: Marinating the meat
The night before, prepare the beef to give it a juicy texture and rich flavor. Cut the meat into small cubes and place it in a bowl. Add a cup of sweet milk, which will help tenderize the meat, and cover with plastic wrap. Leave in the refrigerator until the next day. This step is essential for obtaining a delicious soup, and the milk helps eliminate any unpleasant flavors.

Step 2: Boiling the meat
The next day, remove the meat from the milk and rinse it under cold running water. This will remove any milk residues. Place the meat in a large pot, add water and a little salt. Boil over medium heat. As it begins to boil, a foam will appear on top; discard this water and rinse the meat again. This process will ensure a clear and tasty soup.

Step 3: Adding the vegetables
After the meat has boiled for about 30 minutes, add the finely chopped onion, potato, carrot, celery, and parsnip, all diced. These vegetables not only add flavor but also essential nutrients. Let everything boil together for 20-30 minutes, or until the vegetables become tender.

Step 4: Adding the tomato paste
When the vegetables are ready, add the tomato paste and mix well. The tomato paste will give the soup a vibrant color and intense flavor. Continue to boil for another 10-15 minutes.

Step 5: Finishing the soup
Finally, add the finely chopped greens: parsley and lovage. These will provide a fresh and vibrant taste to your soup. Taste and adjust the salt if necessary. Turn off the heat and let the soup rest for a few minutes before serving.

Serving
Serve the beef soup hot, with a spoonful of sour cream on top and, if you like, with hot pepper for an extra kick. It pairs perfectly with a slice of fresh bread or polenta.

Useful tips:
- Type of meat: Choose a fattier cut of beef, such as shank or neck, for a richer flavor.
- Vegetables: You can vary the vegetables according to the season. For example, add zucchini or cauliflower for a diversity of flavors.
- Sour soup: If you prefer a sour soup, you can add lemon juice or vinegar at the end.
- Taste as you go: Make sure to taste the soup during preparation to adjust the seasonings.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Yes, you can adapt the recipe using chicken, but the cooking time will be shorter.

2. How much salt should I add?
It is recommended to add salt gradually, tasting as you go, to avoid it being too salty.

3. What other spices can I use?
You can experiment with spices like turmeric, coriander, or even a dash of pepper to add a distinct flavor.

Nutritional benefits:
Beef soup is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and fiber due to the included vegetables. Beef contains iron, essential for transporting oxygen in the blood, while the vegetables add antioxidants and nutrients that contribute to a healthy diet.

Possible variations:
- Beef soup with noodles: Add homemade or store-bought noodles in the last minutes of boiling to turn the soup into a heartier dish.
- Beef soup with beans: Include cooked beans for a heartier version, rich in fiber.

This beef soup is not just a simple recipe, but a true feast for the soul, perfect for chilly days or when you crave comfort. Cook with love and enjoy every spoonful!

 Ingredients: a piece of beef an onion a potato a carrot a celery 1 parsnip red pepper green pepper 1 zucchini a cup of sweet milk for soaking salt broth parsley lovage

 Tags:  beef soup