Veal soup

Veal soup with vegetables and lovage – A gem of Romanian cuisine

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 90 minutes
Total time: 110 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Veal soup is a traditional dish that combines the savory taste of meat with the freshness of vegetables, offering not only a culinary delight but also a true feast for health. This recipe will not only warm the hearts of your loved ones but will also bring a touch of comfort on cold days. Each spoonful of soup is like a warm hug, full of the flavors and colors of autumn.

The history of veal soup
Veal soup has deep roots in culinary tradition, often served on holidays or during family gatherings around the table. Fresh vegetables, tender meat, and aromatic lovage make this soup a symbol of comfort and good taste. Over the years, each housewife has added a personal touch, incorporating various ingredients or adjusting cooking techniques.

Necessary ingredients
- 600 g veal
- 3 carrots
- 1 parsnip
- 1 parsley root
- 1 small celery
- 2 onions
- 1 small cauliflower (broken into florets)
- 1 handful of green beans (either fresh or frozen)
- 2 bell peppers (diced)
- 3 potatoes (cubed)
- 3 tomatoes (grated)
- 1 bunch of lovage
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons of seasoning (or your preferred spice)
- 6 peppercorns
- 1 bay leaf
- A pinch of salt
- A bag of borscht (optional for a sour taste)

Step-by-step preparation

1. Preparing the meat
Start by cleaning the veal. Wash it well and cut it into suitable cubes. Place the meat in a large pot, add enough cold water to cover it, a bay leaf, peppercorns, and a pinch of salt. Boil over high heat and skim off the foam that forms on the surface. This is essential for a clear and tasty result.

2. Preparing the vegetables
Meanwhile, clean and wash the vegetables. Chop the onion finely, and cut the carrots, celery, parsnip, and parsley root into cubes. It is important that the vegetables are cut evenly so they cook at the same time.

3. Adding root vegetables
When the water has started to boil and the foam has reduced, add the root vegetables to the pot with the meat. This will be the aromatic base of your soup. Simmer on low heat so that the soup does not become cloudy; too high a heat will affect the texture.

4. Adding delicate vegetables
After about 20 minutes, prepare the other vegetables: the cauliflower florets, beans, and diced peppers. When the root vegetables are almost cooked, add them to the pot.

5. Potatoes and tomatoes
When all the vegetables are nearly cooked, add the cubed potatoes. After they have cooked, add the grated tomatoes, tomato paste, and your preferred spices (such as seasoning). These will enhance the flavor of the soup.

6. Finalizing the soup
After 2-3 boils, reduce the heat and let the soup infuse for a few minutes. Add the finely chopped lovage, which will add a fresh aroma and complement the flavor of the dish.

Practical tips
- Baking soda: A tablespoon of baking soda added during the boiling of the meat will speed up the process. However, be careful not to overdo it, as it can affect the flavor.
- Simmering on low heat: This is the key to a clear and tasty soup. Too high a temperature will cause the vegetables to disintegrate.
- Use fresh vegetables: The quality of the ingredients will directly influence the taste of the soup. Choose local, seasonal vegetables for added flavor.

Variations of the recipe
- You can add other vegetables like zucchini or turnips, depending on your preferences.
- For a spicy note, try adding finely chopped hot pepper.
- You can replace veal with chicken or pork, depending on your family's tastes.

Serving
Veal soup is best served hot, with a slice of homemade bread on the side. You can add sour cream at serving for an even creamier taste, and a sprinkle of fresh lovage for decoration. It pairs wonderfully with a glass of dry white wine, which will enhance the flavors of the soup.

Nutritional benefits
This soup is rich in protein due to the veal, and the vegetables provide a wide range of vitamins and minerals. Eating fresh vegetables contributes to healthy digestion and maintaining a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions
- What can I do if I don't have borscht?: You can add lemon juice or vinegar to achieve that specific sour taste.
- How long does the soup keep?: The soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days or can be frozen for later consumption.

In conclusion, veal soup with vegetables and lovage is a versatile, easy-to-make dish that will bring joy and health to every home. Try this recipe and discover how easy it is to bring tradition to your family table. Enjoy!