Rustic beef soup

Beef Tăpeș Soup - A Warm Embrace from the Heart of the Village

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Servings: 6

The rustic beef soup is more than just a meal; it is a family story, a recipe passed down from generation to generation, bringing together the rich flavor of beef and the freshness of vegetables. This soup is a symbol of hospitality and the love of cooking, filled with healthy ingredients that offer not only taste but also essential nutrients. Let’s begin our culinary journey!

Ingredients

- 2 liters of water
- 1 liter of borscht
- 1 kg of beef (ideally from the neck or chest)
- 1 large onion
- 1 carrot
- 1 parsley root
- 1/2 celery
- A handful of rustic beans (preferably dried)
- 1/4 small cabbage
- 2 medium potatoes
- 2 tomatoes (or a tablespoon of tomato paste)
- Greens (dill, parsley, lovage)
- Salt to taste
- Optional: lemon salt for a tangy flavor

Preparing the Soup

1. Preparing the meat: Start by cutting the beef into suitable cubes, about 3-4 cm. Place these pieces in a large pot, add 2 liters of cold water, and set it on medium heat. When the water begins to boil, foam will appear on top. It is important to remove this foam with a skimmer, as it will help achieve a clear and tasty soup.

2. Adding the vegetables: After removing the foam, add salt to taste. Now, it's time to prepare the vegetables. Cut the onion, carrot, parsley root, and celery into small cubes. Add these vegetables to the pot and let them boil together with the meat for about 30 minutes.

3. Beans and cabbage: If you are using dried rustic beans, make sure they were soaked in water overnight. Cut the beans into small pieces and add them to the pot, continuing to cook. At this point, you can also add the finely chopped cabbage, diced potatoes, and tomatoes (or tomato paste), letting everything simmer on low heat.

4. Borscht: In a separate pot, boil 1 liter of borscht and, after it comes to a boil, strain it into the large pot of soup. This is the stage where the soup will take on its characteristic sour taste.

5. Greens: When the vegetables are cooked, add the finely chopped greens - lovage, dill, and parsley. This will add an irresistible aroma to your soup. Taste the soup and adjust the salt or add dissolved lemon salt in water for an extra touch of acidity.

6. Finalizing: Let the soup simmer for another 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to combine. Then, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Serving and Pairing

The rustic beef soup is served hot, often alongside a slice of fresh homemade bread that absorbs the rich flavors of the soup. You can also add a splash of sour cream for a creamy appearance and richer taste. This soup pairs wonderfully with a glass of dry white wine or a refreshing fruit drink.

Tips and Variations

- Meat variations: If you wish, you can experiment with other types of meat, such as lamb or chicken. Each will bring a different flavor, but the soup will remain just as delicious.
- Seasonal vegetables: Use available seasonal vegetables to give it a unique flavor. For example, add zucchini or peppers for an extra touch of freshness.
- Spices: Try adding spices like paprika or freshly ground pepper for an extra kick of flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

The rustic beef soup is not only tasty but also very nutritious. Beef is an excellent source of protein and iron, essential for maintaining optimal health. The vegetables add fiber, vitamins, and minerals, contributing to a balanced diet. This recipe is perfect for chilly days, having a moderate calorie content of about 350-400 calories per serving, depending on the amount of meat and vegetables used.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use frozen beef? Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking to avoid uneven cooking.
- How long can the soup be stored? The soup can be kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
- Can I make the soup vegan? Yes, replace the beef with mushrooms or tofu and use water or vegetable broth instead of borscht. You will get a delicious and healthy soup.

The rustic beef soup is a heartfelt recipe that will bring warmth and comfort in every spoonful. We encourage you to prepare it and share it with your loved ones, thus bringing joy and tradition to your meals!

 Ingredients: 2 l water, 1 l borscht, 1 kg beef, 1 onion, 1 carrot, 1 parsley root, 1/2 celery, 1 handful of green beans, 1/4 small cabbage, 2 potatoes, 2 tomatoes, greens (dill, parsley, lovage), salt.

 Tags:  soup recipe beef soup peasant soup