Smile Soup

Soup with a Smile – A Warm and Comforting Recipe for the Soul

Soup with a Smile is a traditional recipe, full of flavors and goodness, perfectly blending fresh ingredients with a touch of nostalgia. This soup will not only bring a smile to your lips but also provide an ideal setting to enjoy moments spent with loved ones. It is an excellent choice for a family meal, as well as for a gathering with friends. Get ready to discover a simple yet flavorful dish!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 500 g beef (you can also use pork or chicken, depending on your preferences)
- 2 medium onions
- 1 large carrot
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red for a pop of color)
- 50 g butter
- salt, to taste
- 1/2 cup tomato juice
- 6 fresh eggs
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 3 liters of water

A Short Story about Soup with a Smile:
Soups have a long history in gastronomy, being prepared since ancient times to gather available ingredients and create a nourishing dish. Soup with a Smile is a modern reinterpretation of traditional soups, bringing a dash of happiness to every bowl. It not only satisfies your hunger but also offers the comfort of a warm meal, perfect for cool days.

Step-by-Step Preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the Meat
Start by washing the meat well under cold running water. Choose lean meat, which will give a rich flavor to your soup. Cut the meat into small pieces, about 3-4 cm, for even cooking.

Step 2: Boiling the Meat
Place the meat in a large pot and add 3 liters of cold water. Add salt to taste and let it boil over medium heat. When the water starts to boil, remove the foam that forms on the surface to obtain a clear broth.

Step 3: Preparing the Vegetables
Meanwhile, prepare the vegetables. Grate the carrot and chop the onion and bell pepper into small cubes. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and add the onion. Sauté the onion for 2 minutes, then add the carrot and bell pepper. Let the vegetables sauté together until they become slightly translucent, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.

Step 4: Combining the Ingredients
Once the meat is boiled and the vegetables are sautéed, add the vegetable mixture to the pot with the meat. Let everything simmer together for about 20 minutes over medium heat until the meat and vegetables become tender.

Step 5: Adding the Tomato Juice
After the ingredients are cooked, add the tomato juice. This will add a pleasant flavor and vibrant color to your soup. Mix well and let it boil for another 5 minutes.

Step 6: The Eggs
In a plate, crack each egg and carefully pour it into the soup, one by one. This will give a special appearance and an extra flavor. Let the soup boil for another 3 minutes, then turn off the heat.

Step 7: Finishing the Soup
Pour the soup into bowls and add chopped fresh parsley on top. You can garnish the soup with slices of bell pepper from the soup or with parsley leaves for an even more appealing look.

Practical Tips:
- You can also add other vegetables, such as celery or zucchini, to enrich the texture and flavor.
- Instead of eggs, you can use sour cream for a creamier soup.
- Make sure to choose fresh eggs for a better consistency.
- If you like a spicy taste, add a bit of hot pepper.

Delicious Pairings:
Soup with a Smile pairs wonderfully with a slice of freshly baked homemade bread or with flavored croutons. You can accompany the meal with a glass of white wine or fresh lemonade to complete the culinary experience.

Nutritional Benefits:
This soup is an excellent source of protein due to the meat and eggs, while the vegetables will provide you with essential vitamins and minerals. The parsley adds extra antioxidants and aids digestion.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use frozen meat for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking to achieve an even texture.
2. How can I store the soup for later consumption?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. You can freeze it to keep it longer.
3. Can I replace the tomato juice?
Yes, you can use chopped fresh tomatoes or tomato puree, but you will need to adjust the amount of water.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to put on an apron and get cooking! Soup with a Smile will pamper you with its flavors and fill your home with delicious aromas. Whether you enjoy it alone or with loved ones, each spoonful will bring a smile to your faces!