Dumpling soup

Dumpling soup is a traditional dish that brings together all the necessary ingredients to provide comfort and warmth to the soul. This savory recipe combines the aroma of fresh vegetables with the delicacy of filled dumplings, turning each bite into an unforgettable culinary experience. The preparation time is approximately 30 minutes, and the cooking time is 40-45 minutes, resulting in a total of 1 hour and 15 minutes. This recipe is sufficient for 4 generous servings, perfect for a family meal or gathering with friends.

Ingredients needed

For the soup:
- 4 liters of water
- 1 large carrot (approximately 150g, peeled)
- 1 medium onion (approximately 70g, peeled)
- 150g bell pepper or sweet pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 600 ml borscht
- A piece of fresh ginger (about the size of a thumb)

For the dumpling dough:
- 400g wheat flour
- 150 ml cold water
- 1 teaspoon coarse salt

For the dumpling filling:
- 800g lean beef (minced)
- 1 medium onion (approximately 80g, peeled)
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 teaspoon ground coarse salt
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley
- 3 teaspoons olive oil

Preparing the soup

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by peeling and washing the carrot. Cut it into rounds and place it in a large pot along with the whole onion, the bell pepper cut into large strips, the bay leaf, and the water. Bring everything to a boil.

2. Cooking the vegetables: Let the vegetables boil over medium heat for about 20 minutes. This step is essential for obtaining a rich and aromatic soup base. After the vegetables have boiled, don’t forget to remove the onion from the soup.

Preparing the dough and filling

3. Preparing the dough: In a bowl, add the flour and dissolve the salt in the cold water. Pour the water over the flour and mix with a spoon until all the water is absorbed. Then, knead the dough by hand until it becomes smooth. If necessary, add more water or flour to achieve the desired consistency. Set the dough aside.

4. Preparing the filling: In another bowl, combine the minced meat, finely chopped onion, spices (ground ginger, allspice, and salt), dried parsley, and olive oil. Mix the ingredients well until they are homogeneous. It is important to have a flavorful and tasty filling.

Assembling and cooking the dumplings

5. Forming the dumplings: Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut it into equal pieces (each about 20g). Shape balls from each piece, then roll them out with a rolling pin until you obtain thin sheets.

6. Filling the dumplings: Place a tablespoon of filling in the center of each sheet of dough. Fold the edges of the dough to form a dumpling. Make sure the edges are well sealed to prevent them from opening during cooking.

7. Cooking the dumplings: Once you have finished forming all the dumplings, let them simmer gently in the hot soup. Add them one by one, stirring gently to avoid sticking to the bottom of the pot. Cook them for 20 minutes.

8. Finalizing the soup: After the dumplings have cooked, add the borscht (heated separately) to the soup and let it boil for another 15-20 minutes. This step will add a pleasant acidity to the soup.

9. Serving: Turn off the heat and add the olive oil along with the piece of fresh ginger. This will provide an intense and refreshing flavor to the dish.

Practical tips for a perfect result

- Choosing the meat: Choose lean beef for the dumpling filling, ensuring it is well minced for a fine texture.
- Checking the taste: Taste the soup before adding the borscht to adjust the salt level according to your preferences.
- Quick version: If you feel it’s too much work to divide and weigh the dough, you can split the dough in half and cut out circles using a cup. This is a simple and quick method.
- Serving: Dumpling soup pairs wonderfully with a fresh summer salad or warm homemade bread. You can also enjoy this dish with a glass of dry white wine or a fragrant tea for a complete culinary experience.

Calories and nutritional benefits

This dumpling soup is not only delicious but also nutritious. A serving contains about 400-450 calories, depending on the specific ingredients used. The beef provides quality protein, while the vegetables offer essential vitamins and minerals. Ginger not only adds a unique flavor but is also known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive properties.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use chicken instead of beef? Yes, you can use chicken, which will give a different flavor to the soup.
- How can I store the soup for later consumption? The soup can be stored in the refrigerator in airtight containers for 2-3 days. The dumplings may become less fluffy when refrigerated, so it is recommended to prepare them fresh.
- Is it possible to make dumplings gluten-free? Yes, you can use gluten-free flour, but adjustments to the amount of water may be necessary.

Dumpling soup is more than just a simple dish – it is a culinary experience full of tradition and comfort. Try this recipe at home, share it with your loved ones, and enjoy a delicious meal that will bring smiles to everyone’s faces!