Simple Russian Soup

Introduction

Simple Russian Soup is one of those meals that offers both comfort and warmth, perfect for chilly days or moments when you crave a dish that feels like a hug in a bowl. This hearty soup combines simple, rustic ingredients such as vegetables, meats, and occasionally grains or noodles, coming together to create a dish that is as nourishing as it is satisfying. The rich, flavorful broth ties everything together, while the tender vegetables and hearty proteins fill you up, making it the perfect meal for any occasion.

The first time I made Simple Russian Soup, I was taken aback by how such simple ingredients could create such a deep, comforting flavor. The slow simmering process allowed all the flavors to meld together beautifully, and by the time the soup was ready, my kitchen smelled like home. As I ladled the warm broth into bowls, the tender chunks of meat and vegetables floated in a rich, aromatic base that had me eagerly anticipating the first spoonful.

What I love most about Simple Russian Soup is how customizable it is. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what’s available in your pantry, making it an ideal dish to prepare when you want something quick but satisfying. Add grains like barley or rice for extra texture, or use any vegetables you have on hand to make it your own. Whether served with a slice of rustic bread or enjoyed on its own, Simple Russian Soup is the perfect meal to nourish both body and soul.

Perfect for:

• Chilly evenings
• Family dinners
• Meal prep
• Comforting meals
• Heartwarming gatherings

Why You’ll Love This Simple Russian Soup Recipe

Here’s why Simple Russian Soup is a must-try:

• Hearty and Filling: The combination of tender meat, fresh vegetables, and flavorful broth makes this soup incredibly hearty and satisfying.
• Easy to Make: Despite its rich flavor, this soup comes together with minimal effort, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you’re in need of a simple yet comforting meal.
• Nourishing and Nutritious: Packed with vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and cabbage, this soup offers a range of vitamins and minerals to keep you healthy and energized.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients to fit your tastes, such as adding more herbs or using a different type of meat.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 18g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 10g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for Simple Russian Soup:

• 1 lb beef stew meat or chicken thighs (skinless, boneless)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 ½ cups cabbage, shredded
• 4 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: 1 tablespoon sour cream for serving

Ingredient Highlights

• Beef or Chicken: Both beef stew meat and chicken thighs offer a great base for this soup, adding richness and flavor to the broth.
• Cabbage: Cabbage gives the soup a satisfying texture and adds a mild flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
• Potatoes and Carrots: These vegetables add a natural sweetness and starchy consistency to the soup, helping to thicken the broth and make it more filling.
• Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley or dill adds a burst of color and a fragrant finish, enhancing the soup’s overall flavor.
• Broth: A rich beef or chicken broth is the perfect base for this soup, making it flavorful and comforting.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to make Simple Russian Soup:

Prepare the Meat:

1. Brown the Meat: In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the beef stew meat or chicken thighs, and brown on all sides. This step will help develop a deeper flavor for the broth.
2. Remove the Meat: Once browned, remove the meat from the pot and set it aside. If using chicken thighs, shred the meat once cooked.

Cook the Vegetables:

3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In the same pot, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add the Carrots and Potatoes: Stir in the sliced carrots and diced potatoes. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the vegetables to absorb the flavors from the onion and garlic.

Simmer the Soup:

5. Add the Broth: Pour in the beef or chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any brown bits from the meat and vegetables. This will add extra flavor to the soup.
6. Season the Soup: Add the bay leaf, thyme, black pepper, and salt to taste. Stir to combine.
7. Return the Meat: Add the browned beef or shredded chicken back into the pot. Bring the soup to a boil.
8. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 45-60 minutes, or until the meat is tender and the vegetables are cooked through. If needed, skim off any foam from the surface during cooking.

Add the Cabbage:

9. Add the Cabbage: Once the meat and vegetables are tender, stir in the shredded cabbage. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cabbage softens and wilts.

Serve:

10. Garnish and Serve: Remove the bay leaf and discard. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or dill. If desired, add a dollop of sour cream to each serving for extra creaminess.

How to Serve Simple Russian Soup

Simple Russian Soup can be served in many delightful ways:

• With Fresh Bread: Pair the soup with a crusty loaf of bread or rye bread for a hearty and comforting meal.
• With a Side Salad: Serve with a light side salad to balance the richness of the soup.
• Topped with Sour Cream: A spoonful of sour cream on top adds a creamy finish to each bowl, enhancing the flavors of the soup.
• For Special Occasions: This soup is a great starter for a Russian-themed dinner or holiday gathering.
• With Pickles: Traditionally, this soup is sometimes served with pickles for a tangy contrast to the savory broth.

Additional Tips for Simple Russian Soup

Here are some tips to ensure your Simple Russian Soup turns out perfectly:

• Use Homemade Broth: If possible, use homemade broth for the best flavor. It adds richness and depth to the soup.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like parsnips, celery, or turnips for extra flavor and texture.
• Let It Simmer Longer: The longer you let the soup simmer, the more flavorful it becomes. Don’t rush the cooking process for the best results.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste the soup as it cooks and adjust the salt, pepper, or herbs as needed to suit your personal preferences.
• Freeze Leftovers: This soup freezes well, so make a large batch and store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Recipe Variations for Simple Russian Soup

Here are 10 variations you can try for Simple Russian Soup:

• Beef and Barley Soup: Add a ½ cup of pearl barley to the soup for a heartier, grain-filled version.
• Vegetarian Version: Omit the meat and use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.
• Tomato-Based Soup: Add a can of crushed tomatoes for a tangy twist to the traditional recipe.
• Spicy Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a small diced chili for a kick of heat.
• Smoked Meat Soup: Use smoked sausage or bacon for a smoky, savory flavor in the broth.
• Chicken and Rice Soup: Add ½ cup of cooked rice to the soup for a filling, comforting variation.
• Herb-Infused Soup: Experiment with adding fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves for added depth of flavor.
• Cabbage Soup: Add extra cabbage for a more pronounced cabbage flavor and a bulkier texture.
• Root Vegetable Soup: Swap the potatoes for root vegetables like parsnips, rutabagas, or turnips for a slightly different taste.
• Zucchini Soup: Add diced zucchini for a fresh, mild flavor that complements the other vegetables.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
• Storage: Store leftover soup in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container. The flavors will develop even more after sitting overnight.

Special Equipment for Simple Russian Soup

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Simple Russian Soup easier:

• Large Pot: A large, heavy-bottomed pot is perfect for simmering the soup and ensuring even heat distribution.
• Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is essential for chopping vegetables quickly and evenly.
• Wooden Spoon: A sturdy wooden spoon helps to stir the soup and prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
• Ladle: A ladle makes it easy to serve the soup without making a mess.
• Soup Ladle with Measurement: A ladle that can measure portion sizes can help you serve the perfect amount for each bowl.

FAQ Section for Simple Russian Soup

1. Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
   Yes, you can use a slow cooker. Brown the meat and sauté the vegetables before adding everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
2. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
   Yes, you can make it vegetarian by using vegetable broth and omitting the meat. You can also add more vegetables like mushrooms for extra flavor.
3. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
   Yes, Simple Russian Soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have time to meld together.
4. Can I use other meats in this recipe?
   Yes, pork or lamb would work well as an alternative to beef or chicken in this soup.
5. What other vegetables can I add to this soup?
   You can add vegetables like parsnips, celery, or peas for added flavor and texture.

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Conclusion

Simple Russian Soup is a warm, comforting, and versatile dish that’s perfect for cozying up on a cold day or serving to loved ones during a family meal. With its hearty ingredients and rich flavors, this soup offers both satisfaction and nourishment. Whether you enjoy it with bread, pickles, or sour cream, it’s a dish that invites you to savor each bite. Give it a try and enjoy the wholesome goodness that comes with every spoonful!

I’d love to see how you make this dish your own! Don’t forget to tag me on Instagram and share your version. Leave a comment with any twists you added—happy cooking!