Veal soup with dumplings

Country-style soup with flour dumplings – a recipe full of comfort and tradition

Country-style soup is an emblematic dish often associated with family meals and the joy of sharing unforgettable moments. While the classic version is always welcome, today I offer you a delicious reinterpretation: veal soup with fluffy dumplings. The dumplings add a special touch to this dish, transforming it into a true feast for the taste buds.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total: 1 hour 30 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Necessary ingredients:
- 600 g veal shoulder
- 2 carrots
- 2 onions
- 1 celery root
- 1 bell pepper
- 1 teaspoon hot pepper paste
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 2 sprigs of dried lovage
- 1 cup tomato puree
- 2 eggs
- White flour (about 200 g, depending on the desired consistency)
- Salt, to taste
- 2 tablespoons oil
- Fresh celery leaves for decoration

Step by step to perfection:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by cleaning the veal shoulder of skin and washing it well. Cut the meat into cubes of about 2-3 cm. These will cook evenly and become tender.

2. Boiling the meat: Place the meat cubes in a large pot, add 3 liters of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, skimming off any impurities if necessary. This step is essential for obtaining a clear and tasty soup.

3. Preparing the vegetables: Clean and wash the carrots, onions, celery, and bell pepper. Cut them into small cubes. These vegetables will not only add a special flavor but also a vibrant color to the dish.

4. Sautéing the vegetables: In a skillet, heat the two tablespoons of oil and add the chopped vegetables. Sauté them over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring constantly. Finally, add the sweet paprika and pepper paste, mixing well to capture the flavors.

5. Combining the ingredients: After the meat has boiled for 20 minutes, check if it is cooked. Add the sautéed vegetables and the lovage sprigs (or dried lovage) to the pot with the meat. Let it simmer together for 30 minutes, until the meat is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.

6. Preparing the dumplings: In a bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt. Gradually add the flour and mix well until you obtain a consistency similar to thick sour cream. This is the key to fluffy dumplings. If you want to add a touch of flavor, you can also incorporate some freshly chopped dill.

7. Adding the dumplings to the soup: Using a spoon, take small portions of the dumpling mixture and add them to the boiling soup, making sure to pass them through the hot liquid before adding. This will help maintain their shape and prevent them from sticking together.

8. Finalizing the soup: After adding all the dumplings, add the cup of tomato puree and let it boil for another 5 minutes. At this point, check the taste and add salt if necessary. Remove the lovage sprigs from the pot, as they have done their job of adding flavor.

9. Serving: The soup is served hot, decorated with fresh celery leaves. This will not only enrich the dish's appearance but also add a fresh note of flavor.

Useful tips:
- If you want a thicker soup, you can also add diced potatoes.
- The dumplings can be flavored with various herbs, such as parsley or dill, for an extra burst of flavor.
- A delicious variation is to add a teaspoon of sour cream to each bowl for a creamy texture.
- Don't forget to keep a few fresh lovage leaves for decoration; they will add a pleasant and fresh look.

Nutritional benefits:
Veal soup is an excellent source of protein, and the vegetables add essential vitamins and minerals. This recipe can be a healthy choice for a nutritious meal, being low in calories and rich in nutrients.

Delicious combinations:
This soup pairs perfectly with warm homemade bread or crunchy croutons. A fresh lemonade or herbal tea will perfectly complement the meal.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use pork instead of veal? Yes, but keep in mind that the cooking time may vary.
- Can I prepare this soup in advance? Absolutely, the soup keeps well in the refrigerator and becomes even tastier the next day.
- How can I make the soup spicier? Add more pepper paste or even a few slices of fresh chili pepper.

Country-style soup with flour dumplings is more than just a recipe; it is an invitation to the table, to stories, and to moments spent with loved ones. Savor each spoonful and enjoy the authentic flavors that will take you back to home-cooked meals!