Beef and Fresh Cabbage Beet Soup

This delightful beef and fresh cabbage beet soup is a hearty and comforting dish that combines the robust flavors of tender beef, fresh vegetables, and earthy beets. Perfect for a chilly day, this soup begins with simmering beef in a savory broth until it becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender. The vibrant addition of fresh beets and cabbage introduces a beautifully rich color and a subtle sweetness to the soup. Carrots and onions add layers of flavor, while tomato paste brings a subtle tang. Seasoned with a selection of spices and herbs, this soup is both delicious and nutritious. Serve it with sour cream for an added creamy touch, and garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of freshness. Ideal as a standalone meal or a starter, this soup will surely leave your taste buds satisfied. Prepare to delve into a bowl of comforting goodness with every spoonful.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

500 g potatoes
400 g beef fillet
250 g fresh cabbage
200 g beets
1 onion
1 carrot
80 g tomato paste
1-2 cloves garlic
2 liters water

Spices and Seasonings

Salt
Pepper
Spices of choice
Bay leaves

Preparation Time

Total Time: 120 minutes
Cooking Time: 90 minutes
Preparation Time: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Begin by boiling the Beef: In a large pot, add 1.2 liters of water and bring it to a boil. Carefully place the beef fillet into the water, skim off any foam that rises to the top, and then simmer the beef for about an hour until it's tender.
Prepare the Vegetables: While the beef is cooking, peel and slice the carrots into rounds. Chop the onion and shred the beets either into strips or using a coarse grater for easier cooking.
Add Vegetables to Soup: Once the beef is sufficiently boiled, add the carrots, onions, and beets to the pot. Season with salt and pepper, then continue to simmer.
Cabbage Preparation: Shred the fresh cabbage into thin strips and incorporate it into the soup. This adds a wonderful crunch and freshness to the dish.
Simmer Further: Allow the soup to continue simmering for another 20-30 minutes. This ensures that the vegetables are cooked to perfection and the flavors meld together.
Flavor Enhancements: During the last stages of cooking, introduce bay leaves into the soup for added aroma. Adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, spices, or even a touch of sugar to balance the flavors.
Finish the Beef: Once the soup has infused to your liking, remove the beef and cut it into small, manageable pieces. Return the beef to the pot and stir in finely chopped parsley.
Garnish and Serve: Ladle the finished soup into bowls. Garnish with a dollop of sour cream and additional fresh parsley for a vibrant finish. Enjoy the aromatic and hearty soup with a side of crusty bread.

Tips

Substitutions: Feel free to substitute pork for beef if desired, or add turnips for an extra twist.
Storage Advice: This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, offering a quick and warming meal.
Herbal Additions: Add a bay leaf or two for a deeper flavor, and consider thyme as an alternative herb.

Nutritions

Calories: Approximately 280 per serving
Protein: 14 g
Fats: 8 g
Carbohydrates: 35 g

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Substitute beef with mushrooms and vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
Low Carb: Replace potatoes with cauliflower for a low-carb alternative.
Spicier Version: Add some chili flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions

Pairings: Serve with rye bread and a cucumber salad for a traditional touch. A dill or garlic bread could be a delightful accompaniment.
Garnishes: Include a wedge of lemon to squeeze over just before eating, enhancing the flavors.

Best Places

Varvary Cafe - Offers an expansive range of soups including vegetable and beet variety. Location: 41 Some Street, Moscow, Russia.
Cafe Pushkin - Known for its traditional Russian cuisine and homey atmosphere. Location: 26A Tverskoy Blvd, Moscow, Russia.
Tartine Manufactory - Renowned for their creative takes on classic dishes. Location: 595 Alabama St, San Francisco, USA.
Borscht and Beyond - Features hearty soups with Eastern European roots. Location: 12 Old Market, Krakow, Poland.
Salo Restaurant - Provides a delightful blend of flavors, featuring farm-to-table dishes. Location: 15 Great Avenue, Kiev, Ukraine.
The Soup Bowl - Famed for its diverse soup menu and cozy seating. Location: 1105 Monroe St, New York, USA.
Soup En Ville - A popular downtown destination known for hearty and flavorful soups. Location: 4 Rue de Rivoli, Paris, France.
Nordic Soup House - Offers an array of Nordic-style soups in a chic setting. Location: 86 Jaktgatan, Stockholm, Sweden.
Bistro Beet & Bean - Known for its innovative and multi-cuisine approach, balancing taste and nutrition. Location: 34 Kingsway, London, UK.
Old Tallinn Tavern - Provides authentic Scandinavian and Baltic dishes with a modern twist. Location: 23 Rüütli, Tallinn, Estonia.