Beetroot soup with meat

Beetroot soup with meat – A warm delicacy for cool days

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Introduction

Beetroot soup with meat is a traditional recipe, full of color and flavors, that perfectly combines healthy vegetables with juicy meat. This warm soup is often associated with comfort and the warmth of home, making it ideal for cool evenings. The vibrant red beet not only provides a spectacular color to the soup but also brings numerous nutritional benefits, such as essential vitamins and minerals. Let’s discover together how to prepare the perfect beetroot soup with meat!

Ingredients

- 1.5 kg of cleaned beetroot
- 2 carrots
- 2 onions
- 2-3 potatoes
- 1 parsley root
- 1 celery root
- 1-2 glasses of sour borscht or the juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh lovage and parsley leaves for garnish
- 1 kg of meat for cooking (with bone, ideal for a richer taste)

Preparing the soup

1. Preparing the meat: In a large pot, add the meat cut into suitable pieces and the bone. Cover with water, ensuring the meat is well submerged. Place the pot over medium heat and let it boil. As the water begins to boil, a foam will form on the surface. Use a skimmer to remove this foam to achieve a clear soup.

2. Boiling the meat: Once the foam has been removed, reduce the heat to low and let the meat simmer gently for about 30 minutes. This process will help extract flavors from the meat.

3. Preparing the vegetables: Meanwhile, peel the beetroot, carrots, onion, potatoes, parsley, and celery. The beetroot can be sliced thinly or grated, depending on preference. The carrots and other vegetables can be cut into small cubes or grated, as desired.

4. Boiling the vegetables: In another deep pot, add the prepared vegetables and cover them with water. Place it over high heat until it starts to boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 30 minutes. It is important not to overcook the vegetables so that they retain their texture and nutrients.

5. Combining the ingredients: After the meat has boiled for 30 minutes, add it to the pot with the vegetables, along with the broth it was cooked in. Let everything simmer together for another hour on low heat. This step is essential for the flavors to blend harmoniously.

6. Seasoning the soup: When the meat is tender, add the sour borscht or lemon juice, salt, pepper, and a teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity. Let it boil for a few more minutes for the flavors to develop.

7. Completing the dish: Before removing the soup from the heat, add the chopped lovage and fresh parsley. If you desire a creamier consistency, you can enrich the soup with a beaten egg mixed with a little hot soup.

8. Serving: Serve the soup in deep plates, adding a piece of meat to each serving. Serve with a portion of warm polenta if desired, and don’t forget to add a little garlic sauce for extra flavor.

Practical tips

- Choosing the meat: Meat with bone is essential for achieving a rich flavor. Popular options are beef or pork.
- Beetroot: Opt for fresh, firm beetroot with green leaves. It is rich in antioxidants and helps lower blood pressure.
- Vegetarian option: You can omit the meat and add more vegetables or even tofu for a delicious vegetarian variant.
- Sour borscht: If you don’t have sour borscht, lemon juice is an excellent alternative. You can adjust the quantity according to your preferences.

Nutritional benefits

Beetroot soup is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, K, and minerals such as iron, magnesium, and potassium. Beetroot helps detoxify the body, improves blood circulation, and contributes to cardiovascular health.

Frequently asked questions

- How long does the soup keep? The soup keeps well in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. It can be frozen for later consumption, but the texture of the vegetables may be affected.
- What side dishes are most suitable? Polenta is a classic side dish, but fresh bread or croutons can also be delicious alongside this soup.

Combination suggestions

Beetroot soup pairs perfectly with a cup of herbal tea or a light white wine. You can also experiment with a fresh cabbage salad for a contrast of textures and flavors.

Personal note

I fondly remember the moments spent around the table with family, enjoying a warm soup after a cold winter day. Its inviting aroma and vibrant colors always bring a smile to my face. I encourage you to add a personal touch to your recipe, perhaps a favorite ingredient or a special seasoning, to make it truly unique.

Now that you have all the necessary information, you are ready to prepare this warm delight. Feel free to share this recipe with your loved ones and enjoy every bite!