A hearty and comforting soup, packed with tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth. This recipe is perfect for a cozy winter meal or a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
- For the Soup:
- 1.5 pounds boneless beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 10 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 pound mixed frozen vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- For the Dumplings (Optional):
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
- 1/4 cup cold water
Instructions:
- Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add beef cubes and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add onion, carrots, celery, and garlic to the pot. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Pour in beef broth, thyme, rosemary, black pepper, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until beef is tender.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in frozen vegetables and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
- Make Dumplings (Optional): In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and pepper. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add water, mixing until dough comes together. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut into squares and drop into the simmering soup. Cook for 10-15 minutes, or until dumplings are cooked through.
- Serve: Remove bay leaf and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad.
Tips:
- For a richer flavor, consider roasting the beef before adding it to the soup.
- You can use different cuts of beef, such as chuck roast or short ribs.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable broth for beef broth and omit the beef.
- Add your favorite vegetables to the soup, such as potatoes, parsnips, or kale.
- Customize the dumplings by adding herbs or cheese to the dough.
Enjoy this hearty and satisfying soup!