Beef borscht

Beef Borscht with Vegetables Recipe: A Hearty Delight

Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4-6

I have always been fascinated by how a simple recipe can bring family and friends together, especially on chilly days. Beef borscht is that kind of dish that not only warms the body but also the soul. This recipe combines the rich flavors of beef with those of fresh vegetables and is an excellent way to enjoy a traditional dish full of flavor. So, let's get to work!

Ingredients

- 500 grams beef (preferably chuck or neck)
- 1/2 red bell pepper
- 1 green bell pepper
- 2 medium potatoes
- 2 carrots
- 1 parsnip
- 1 parsley root
- 1 celery stalk
- 1 onion
- 500 ml borscht (preferably natural from a trusted source)
- 1 bunch of fresh lovage
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- Salt, to taste
- 200 ml tomato juice (preferably homemade)
- Noodles (optional, for serving)

Preparation Steps

1. Preparing the meat
Start by cutting the beef into cubes about 3 cm. These will cook evenly and release their flavors into the soup. Place the meat in a large pot with cold water and let it simmer over medium heat. It is important to skim occasionally to remove impurities that rise to the surface. This step will ensure a clear and tasty borscht.

2. Preparing the vegetables
While the meat is simmering, you can prepare the vegetables. Chop the peppers, potatoes, carrots, parsnip, parsley root, celery, and onion into small or medium cubes, depending on your preference. Each vegetable adds a unique flavor to the borscht, so don't hesitate to experiment.

3. Straining the meat
After about 30 minutes, when the meat has started to boil and become tender, strain the broth into another pot. Rinse the meat under cold running water to remove the foam. Return the meat to the pot with the broth, ensuring that all the flavor is retained.

4. Adding the vegetables
Now it's time to add the vegetables to the pot. Start with the root vegetables (carrots, parsnip, potatoes, celery) that require a longer cooking time. After 10-15 minutes, you can add the peppers and onion. Add salt to taste, but be careful, as the borscht will also add a bit of acidity.

5. Boiling the borscht
Separately, in another pot, boil the borscht. Add it to the pot with meat and vegetables when they are almost cooked (about 10-15 minutes). Fresh borscht brings a tangy note that is essential for this dish.

6. Finalizing the dish
After adding the borscht, let everything simmer together for another 10 minutes. This step will allow the flavors to combine perfectly. Finally, sprinkle the chopped lovage and parsley, adding a touch of freshness and color to the borscht.

Serving
Beef borscht is served hot, ideally alongside slices of fresh bread or with boiled noodles. A dollop of sour cream on top can make everything even more delicious. This dish is perfect for chilly days and can be enjoyed the next day when the flavors intensify and become even better.

Practical Tips

- Calories and Nutritional Benefits: A serving of beef borscht has approximately 350-400 kcal, depending on the amount of meat and vegetables used. It is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, making it a hearty and nutritious dish.
- Variations: You can experiment with various seasonal vegetables or add spices like pepper, bay leaves, or even a dash of garlic for an extra flavor boost.
- Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use chicken instead of beef? Yes, the borscht will be just as tasty, but the cooking time will be shorter.
- How can I store the borscht longer? It stores well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, and in the freezer, it can last up to 3 months.
- What can I add to make it spicier? A hot pepper or a dash of chili sauce can add a spicy kick.

Conclusion
This beef borscht with vegetables is not just a simple dish but a culinary experience that connects you to traditions and beautiful moments spent with loved ones. Whether you enjoy it on a chilly day or at a festive meal, each spoonful will bring warmth and joy. I hope you enjoy every step of the preparation and share it with your loved ones. Bon appétit!