Country-style beef soup

Beef Peasant Soup - a feast of culinary traditions!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Beef Peasant Soup is a recipe that evokes childhood memories, bringing to the table the rich flavors of fresh vegetables and tender meat. This soup, with its rich and comforting taste, has been prepared by generations and is often associated with family Sunday meals, especially in the cold season. Perfect for serving on chilly days, the beef peasant soup is not just a culinary delight but also a good source of nutrients.

Ingredients:

- 1 kg beef pulp
- 1 l borscht
- 1 tomato
- 2 carrots
- 1 zucchini
- 2 white onions
- Salt/Delikat to taste
- 2 pieces of parsnip
- 3 green onions
- 10-12 small new potatoes
- Half a red bell pepper
- Half a green bell pepper
- Half a celery root
- 50 ml tomato juice or puree
- 3-4 tablespoons of pre-cooked peas
- A handful of round beans (canned)
- Sour cream and hot pepper for serving
- Greens: lovage, fresh parsley, lamb's lettuce, chard

Step by step:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by washing the beef pulp well. Cut the meat into small cubes, about 3-4 cm. Place the meat cubes in a large pot with cold water, bringing to a boil over medium heat. Don’t forget to skim off the foam that forms on the surface to obtain a clear soup.

2. Chopping the vegetables: While the meat is boiling, prepare the vegetables. Finely chop the onion, bell pepper, and celery, then slice the carrots, parsnip, and zucchini into rounds or cubes, as preferred. The tomato can be diced or grated, depending on the desired consistency.

3. Sautéing the vegetables: In a pan, add a few tablespoons of oil and sauté the onion and bell pepper for 5-7 minutes until they become translucent. This will enhance the flavors of the vegetables and make the soup tastier.

4. Adding the vegetables: Once the meat is half cooked, add all the sautéed vegetables to the pot with the meat. Mix well and let it simmer for 10 minutes.

5. Potatoes and spices: Peel the new potatoes and add them whole to the soup. Let them boil for about 20 minutes until they become tender. Add salt or Delikat to taste to enhance the flavors.

6. Completing with the remaining ingredients: After the potatoes have cooked, add the peas, canned beans, tomato juice, and borscht. Let it boil for 5-10 minutes until everything is well combined and aromatic.

7. Finalizing and serving: Once the soup is ready, take it off the heat and add the finely chopped greens. These will not only add a touch of freshness but will also enrich the visual appeal of the dish.

To serve, add a spoonful of sour cream and, if you like, a hot pepper for a touch of spice. Beef Peasant Soup is delicious alongside a slice of warm homemade bread or polenta.

Useful tips:

- Meat: Choose high-quality beef, preferably with a small amount of fat, to obtain a richer and tastier broth.
- Vegetables: Use fresh, seasonal vegetables for the best flavors. The soup can be easily adapted based on the available vegetables.
- Borscht: If you can’t find borscht, you can use lemon juice or vinegar for a sour taste, but borscht provides a unique flavor that cannot be replaced.
- Variations: You can also add other vegetables, such as pumpkin or green beans, to diversify the recipe. Additionally, the soup can be enriched with a splash of white wine for a refined taste.

Nutritional benefits: Beef Peasant Soup is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals due to the combination of meat and vegetables. It is high in fiber, contributing to healthy digestion.

Frequently asked questions:

1. How long can the soup be stored in the fridge? The soup can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. It can be frozen, but it is recommended to consume it fresh for the best flavors.
2. Can I use pork instead of beef? Yes, you can use pork, but the taste will be different. Pork will cook faster, so adjust the boiling time accordingly.
3. How can I make the soup more sour? Add more borscht or lemon juice at the end, to taste.

Beef Peasant Soup is not just a dish, but a culinary experience that brings together tradition and love for cooking. This recipe is an ideal way to gather the family at the table to savor precious moments together. Enjoy your meal!