Beef soup

Beef soup is a traditional recipe, full of flavor and warmth, that has been prepared in households for generations. This soup is an excellent choice for colder days, offering not only a perfect taste but also a wealth of nutritional benefits. Additionally, it is a versatile dish that can be adapted based on available ingredients or personal preferences. Let's discover together how to prepare this delicacy step by step!

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

Ingredients
- 500 g beef (preferably from the shoulder or neck)
- 3 carrots
- 3 parsley roots
- 3 potatoes
- 1 onion
- ½ bell pepper
- ½ sweet pepper
- ½ kohlrabi
- ½ celery
- 100 g green beans (fresh or frozen)
- 100 g green peas (fresh or frozen)
- 400 g diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 400 g tomato puree (preferably homemade)
- salt and pepper to taste
- fresh lovage leaves
- fresh green parsley leaves
- 2-3 tablespoons of oil for sautéing

The story behind the recipe
Beef soup is a symbol of hospitality and culinary tradition. It is a recipe that brings the family together around the table, combining the flavors of fresh vegetables and tender meat. This soup is often served with sour cream and hot peppers on the side, adding a touch of freshness and a slight spicy flavor.

Preparing the beef soup

Step 1: Preparing the meat
Start by cutting the beef into small cubes, about 2-3 cm. This will help with even and quick cooking. Place the meat in a large pot, add a little oil, and sauté it over medium heat until it changes color. This technique will not only add a more intense flavor to the soup but will also reduce cooking time.

Step 2: Boiling the meat
Once the meat is sautéed, add about 2 liters of water and a little salt. Let it boil over medium heat, covering the pot with a lid. If you wish, you can skim off the foam that forms on the surface, although it will settle at the bottom of the pot, not posing a risk to the taste.

Step 3: Preparing the vegetables
While the meat is boiling, clean the vegetables: carrots, parsley roots, potatoes, onion, bell pepper, sweet pepper, kohlrabi, and celery. Wash them well and cut them into small cubes.

Step 4: Sautéing the vegetables
In a separate pan, add a little oil and sauté the chopped onion, carrots, and bell pepper, stirring constantly. This will add a unique color and flavor to the soup.

Step 5: Adding the vegetables to the soup
Once the meat is well boiled (about 40 minutes), add the sautéed vegetables to the pot with meat. Add more water if necessary, so that all the ingredients are covered. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Adding the remaining vegetables
When the sautéed vegetables are half cooked, add the remaining vegetables: peas, green beans, and chopped potatoes. Continue to boil the soup until all the ingredients are tender, about 20-25 minutes.

Step 7: Finalizing the soup
When all the vegetables are well cooked, add the diced tomatoes and tomato puree. Let the soup boil for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to combine. Finally, add the fresh lovage leaves.

Step 8: Serving
Beef soup is wonderful served hot, sprinkled with chopped green parsley on top. You can add sour cream to taste and a hot pepper on the side of the plate for an extra flavor boost.

Practical tips
- Meat: Choose quality beef with a higher fat content for a more intense flavor. Beef from the shoulder or neck is ideal.
- Vegetables: Use fresh, seasonal vegetables for better taste. If you don't have all the vegetables available, feel free to make variations!
- Variations: You can also add other vegetables, such as zucchini or cabbage, depending on your preferences. Additionally, for a more complex flavor, you can add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice at the end.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use chicken instead of beef? Yes, a chicken version can be just as tasty. However, cooking will be faster.
- How long can I keep the soup? The soup keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can also freeze portions for future days!
- What side dish pairs best? A slice of fresh bread or polenta are perfect accompaniments for beef soup.

Calories and nutritional benefits
A serving of beef soup contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of meat and vegetables used. It is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, being rich in fiber and essential nutrients from vegetables. The nutritional benefits of the soup include:
- Beef: Provides high-quality protein and iron, essential for a balanced diet.
- Vegetables: Contribute with fiber, vitamins (especially vitamins A and C), and antioxidants, helping to maintain a healthy immune system.

Conclusion
Beef soup is not just a delicious meal, but also a way to bring the family together around the table. With each spoonful, you will feel the warmth and love you invested in preparing this dish. Whether you serve it on a special occasion or simply on an ordinary day, beef soup will always bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!