Are you craving a comforting, flavorful soup that's both easy to make and incredibly satisfying? Look no further than this classic Brown Windsor Soup recipe! This rich and deeply satisfying soup is perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend lunch. It's a simple yet elegant dish that showcases the beauty of homemade cooking, and it’s surprisingly quick to prepare, making it an ideal addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas. Get ready to experience the warmth and deliciousness of this healthy meal!
Ingredients:
This Brown Windsor Soup recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it a perfect choice for even the busiest weeknights.
- 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
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional, can substitute with more broth)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup pearl barley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
This easy recipe is broken down into simple steps for easy follow-along.
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Sauté the vegetables: 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.
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Brown the beef: Add the beef cubes to the pot and cook until browned on all sides. This step is crucial for developing rich flavor.
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Add aromatics and liquids: Stir in the thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using). Add the tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce.
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Simmer the soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1.5 hours, or until the beef is very tender. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will become.
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Add barley: Stir in the pearl barley and continue to simmer for another 30-45 minutes, or until the barley is cooked through and tender.
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Season and serve: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy your delicious homemade Brown Windsor soup!
Cooking Tips for the Best Brown Windsor Soup:
- For a richer flavor: Use bone-in beef stew meat. The bone will add depth and richness to the broth.
- Don't overcrowd the pot: When browning the beef, work in batches to ensure even browning and avoid steaming.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning to your preference. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or Worcestershire sauce depending on your taste.
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Make a large batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Brown Windsor: Substitute the beef with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, butternut squash, or lentils for a delicious vegetarian version.
- Spicy Brown Windsor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Brown Windsor: Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or crème fraîche before serving for a richer, creamier texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35g
This hearty and flavorful Brown Windsor Soup is a perfect example of delicious dishes that are both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. It’s a great recipe to add to your collection of food recipes for those busy weeknights when you crave a healthy and comforting meal. Enjoy!