Beef and Beet Soup with Cabbage

This hearty and flavorful beef and beet soup with cabbage is a comforting dish that blends the robust taste of beef with the earthy sweetness of beets and the mild tang of cabbage. The dish is perfect for a cold day when you need something to warm your soul. It features tender chunks of beef simmered in a rich broth with vegetables, providing a nutritious and satisfying meal. The addition of red wine vinegar lends a subtle acidic note that balances the soup's flavors. This traditional soup is also filled with carrots and seasoned with aromatic spices like bay leaves and black pepper. It's a versatile dish that can be adapted for different dietary preferences or personal tastes. The recipe is surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for both novice cooks and experienced chefs alike. Serve it with a dollop of sour cream and fresh parsley for a delicious finish. Enjoy this cozy meal with a slice of your favorite bread or a side salad to complete the experience.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 500 g beef
• 500 g cabbage
• 2 beets
• 2 carrots
• 1 onion
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

Spices

• Salt
• Sugar
• Pepper
• Bay leaves
• Fresh parsley

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 100 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Begin by bringing 1.2 liters of water to a boil in a large pot.
2. Add the beef and let it boil briefly, then skim off any foam from the surface.
3. Lower the heat and let the beef simmer for about an hour until tender.
4. While the beef is cooking, prepare your vegetables: peel and slice the carrots into rounds and dice the onion.
5. Peel the beets and cut them into strips or grate them using a coarse grater.
6. Once the beef is tender, add the prepared carrots, onion, and beets to the pot.
7. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, and continue to cook on low heat.
8. Meanwhile, shred the cabbage into thin strips and set aside.
9. After the vegetables have cooked a bit, add the shredded cabbage to the soup.
10. Pour in the red wine vinegar and toss in the bay leaves.
11. Adjust the seasoning by adding a touch of sugar, more salt, and pepper if needed.
12. Continue to simmer the soup for another 20-30 minutes or until all the vegetables are tender.
13. Remove the beef from the pot, cut it into smaller pieces, and then return it to the soup.
14. Chop fresh parsley and stir it into the soup for added flavor.
15. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
16. Remove and discard the bay leaves before serving.
17. For an added layer of flavor, serve the soup with a dollop of sour cream on top.
18. Garnish with additional chopped parsley for a fresh finish.
19. Optionally, serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
20. Enjoy your delicious beef and beet soup with family and friends.

Tips

• Substitutions: For a vegetarian version, omit the beef and use vegetable broth.
• Extra Flavor: Add a few cloves of minced garlic for an aromatic punch.
• Texture: For a creamier texture, partially blend the soup using an immersion blender.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 250 kcal per serving
• Protein: 20g
• Fats: 15g
• Carbs: 18g

Variations

• Use chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
• For a spicy twist, add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes.
• Swap the red wine vinegar with apple cider vinegar for a milder taste.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a generous dollop of sour cream and freshly chopped parsley.
• Pair the soup with rye bread or garlic toast.
• Accompany the dish with a light, crisp salad.

Best Places

• Soup Kitchen AMSTERDAM - Known for its hearty soups made with fresh ingredients. Location: Van Baerlestraat 52, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
• Borscht & Tears - Offers a variety of Eastern European soups and live music. Location: 46 Beauchamp Place, London, United Kingdom.
• Soup Peddler - This casual spot serves delicious soups and sandwiches. Location: 1106 W Oltorf St, Austin, USA.
• The Soup Spoon - A Singaporean chain specializing in wholesome soups. Location: 68 Orchard Road, Plaza Singapura, Singapore.
• Soup Nazi Kitchen - Famous for its New York City location and flavorful broths. Location: 259A W 55th St, New York City, USA.
• The Soup Bar - Known for its innovative and seasonal soup recipes. Location: 57 Collins St, Melbourne, Australia.
• Cafe Dom - Offers a cozy atmosphere with traditional Russian borscht. Location: Vilniaus g. 10, Vilnius, Lithuania.
• L'Aparté - A French bistro with an inviting soup menu. Location: 21-22 Argyll St, London, United Kingdom.
• Broth Bar & Larder - Specializes in nutrient-rich bone broths. Location: 12 SE 28th Ave, Portland, USA.
• The Bowler - Known for its flavorful and inventive soups and stews. Location: Level 1, 144 George St, Sydney, Australia.

Enjoy exploring these wonderful places and their unique takes on soups!