Craving a warm, comforting meal that's both satisfying and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this Beef Soup with Dumplings recipe! This delicious dish is perfect for a chilly evening, a family gathering, or simply a quick and healthy dinner. It's a testament to the magic of homemade cooking, delivering a flavor explosion far beyond anything you'd find in a can. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this simple yet elegant recipe.
Ingredients:
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
For the Beef Broth:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 8 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Dumplings:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tbsp melted butter
Instructions:
Making the Beef Broth:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the beef cubes and cook until browned on all sides.
- Pour in the beef broth, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1.5-2 hours, or until the beef is very tender. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor!
Making the Dumplings:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the milk and melted butter and stir until just combined. Don't overmix; a few lumps are okay.
- Once the beef is tender, gently drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter into the simmering soup.
- Cover the pot and continue to simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your Beef Soup with Dumplings hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives, if desired. A crusty bread roll makes a perfect accompaniment to soak up the delicious broth.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Use bone-in beef shanks or short ribs instead of stew meat.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes, turnips, or parsnips to the soup.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche before serving.
- Vegetarian option: Substitute the beef with firm tofu or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Around 25-30g
- Fat: Around 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Around 20-25g
This Beef Soup with Dumplings recipe is a fantastic example of delicious and healthy meals that are easy to prepare. It’s a perfect addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and best recipes, offering a satisfying and flavorful experience for everyone. Enjoy!