Beef soup with dumplings

Beef Dumpling Soup Recipe - A Warm Delicacy

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Welcome to our kitchen, where we prepare a beef dumpling soup, a traditional dish that provides comfort and warmth on colder days. This recipe is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients, making it perfect for a family meal or to impress friends. Let's begin our culinary journey!

The History of Dumpling Soups

Beef dumpling soup has deep roots in culinary traditions around the world. Over time, different cultures have developed their own versions, each with a unique taste, but all sharing simple and natural ingredients. Dumplings are often considered a symbol of comfort and family warmth, combining the rich flavors of meat with the soft, fluffy texture of the dough.

Ingredients

- 500 g beef with bone (choose a piece with a bit of fat for flavor)
- 1 medium onion (about 150 g)
- 1 large carrot (about 100 g)
- 1 small piece of celery (about 100 g)
- 1 egg (about 60 g)
- 150 g semolina
- A pinch of baking soda
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons sparkling water
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the meat: Start by placing the beef in a large pot, covering it with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors. Place the pot over medium heat and let it boil. Watch closely, as foam will form on the surface. This is the moment to skim off the foam with a spoon to achieve a clear soup.

2. Adding the vegetables: Once you’ve skimmed off the foam, add the onion, carrot, and celery. These vegetables will not only enhance the soup's flavor but also add essential nutrients. Let everything simmer on low heat for about 1 hour. The meat should be tender and easy to pull off the bone.

3. Straining the soup: Once the meat is cooked, remove the pot from the heat and strain the soup through a fine sieve. This will yield a clear and aromatic liquid. The meat can be pulled off the bone and cut into small cubes, which will be added back to the soup later.

4. Preparing the dumplings: In a bowl, beat the egg well. Add a pinch of baking soda, which will help the dumplings become fluffy. Gradually incorporate the semolina, stirring continuously. Make sure no lumps form. The mixture should have a slightly thicker consistency than pancake batter.

5. Cooking the dumplings: Return the strained soup to the heat and bring it to a boil. Using a fork, form small dumplings from the semolina and egg mixture and carefully place them in the soup. Cover the pot with a lid and let the dumplings cook for about 20 minutes. This step is crucial, as the dumplings will swell and become fluffy.

6. Finalizing the soup: After 20 minutes, lift the lid and add pepper to taste. Now, a secret trick: add 2 tablespoons of sparkling water to give the soup an extra freshness! Let everything simmer for a few more minutes. Finally, add the diced meat you prepared earlier and a bit of chopped fresh parsley for a touch of freshness.

7. Serving: Your beef dumpling soup is now ready! You can serve it hot, with a slice of fresh bread on the side. A garnish of fresh parsley will add a splash of color and extra flavor.

Tips and Tricks

- Choosing the meat: Opt for beef with bone, as the bones will add extra gelatin, resulting in a richer and more flavorful soup.
- Vegetables: You can also add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to diversify the soup's flavor.
- Flavored dumplings: To add extra flavor to the dumplings, you can mix in some grated parmesan or herbs into the semolina mixture.
- Vegetarian option: If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can replace the meat with mushrooms and vegetables, and the vegetable broth will be just as tasty.

Delicious Combinations

This soup pairs perfectly with a fresh vegetable salad or a slice of homemade bread. You can also enjoy a glass of dry white wine, which will complement the soup's flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Yes, chicken dumpling soup is just as delicious. The taste will be slightly different, but the dish will remain equally comforting.

2. What do I do if the soup is too salty?
You can add more vegetables or water to dilute the salt. An alternative is to add a boiled and peeled potato, which will absorb some of the salt.

3. How do I store the soup?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. The dumplings may become soft, so it’s recommended to prepare them fresh each time you serve the soup.

Nutritional Benefits

Beef dumpling soup is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Beef is rich in iron, essential for blood health, while the vegetables add fiber and antioxidants, contributing to a balanced diet.

So, this is the perfect beef dumpling soup recipe, which will not only warm your soul but also bring a touch of joy to every bowl. I invite you to share your impressions after trying this recipe and, most importantly, to enjoy it with your loved ones! Bon appétit!