Beef Soup (Kharcho) Recipe

This traditional beef soup, also known as Kharcho, combines tender chunks of beef, aromatic spices, and fresh herbs to create a rich and flavorful dish. Simmered to perfection, this recipe features a hearty base of beef broth and tomatoes, complemented by rice and a medley of seasonings like smoked paprika and coriander. With the addition of fresh dill and parsley, this soup offers a fresh and vibrant finish. Perfect for cold days or as a comforting family dinner, this beef soup is a must-try for those seeking a filling and aromatic meal.

Ingredients

• 3 lb beef stew meat
• 3 tsp salt
• 4 Tbsp light olive oil (or any cooking oil), divided
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 celery ribs, finely chopped
• 4 cups beef broth + 4 cups filtered water
• 28 oz can diced tomatoes
• 2 dry bay leaves
• 1 tsp ground coriander seeds
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 garlic cloves, pressed
• 1/2 cup uncooked white rice (Jasmine rice recommended)
• 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice (from 1 medium lemon)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, plus extra for garnish
• 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped, plus extra for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef: Sprinkle the beef stew meat with 3 tsp of salt and stir. In a Dutch oven or large soup pot, heat 2 tbsp of oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef in two batches, sautéing each batch until browned on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside (don’t worry about cooking it through at this stage).
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and celery to the pot, adding more oil if needed. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
3. Simmer the Soup: Add the canned tomatoes with their juice, the 4 cups of broth, 4 cups of water, 2 bay leaves, and the browned beef. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
4. Add Rice and Seasonings: Stir in 1/2 cup of rice, 2 tbsp of lemon juice, the pressed garlic, coriander, and paprika. Cover and simmer for another 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through.
5. Finish the Soup: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the fresh parsley and dill. Cover and let the soup sit for 10 minutes before serving. Taste and adjust with more salt and pepper if needed.
6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional parsley and dill as desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of tender beef, savory broth, and aromatic herbs creates a deeply flavorful soup.
• Comforting and Hearty: The rice and beef stew meat make this soup a filling and satisfying meal, perfect for colder weather.
• Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley and dill add a burst of brightness to the soup, enhancing its overall taste.

Tips

• Browning the Meat: Don’t rush the browning process; it adds depth of flavor to the soup.
• Rice Alternatives: If you don’t have Jasmine rice, any long-grain white rice will work, but Jasmine rice gives a fragrant touch.
• Simmer Time: For the best results, let the soup simmer for at least 1 1/2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.

Variations and Substitutions

• Spices: If you want to increase the heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes.
• Rice: You can substitute rice with barley or quinoa for a different texture and flavor.
• Beef: If stew meat isn’t available, you can use a chuck roast or brisket, just be sure to cut it into cubes.

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze this soup? Yes, this soup can be frozen. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to serve, thaw and reheat gently on the stove.

Can I use different meat? Yes, you can substitute beef with lamb or pork if you prefer a different meat.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with warm crusty bread or a side of garlic bread for dipping.
• A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs nicely with this hearty soup.
• Top with a dollop of sour cream for added richness and flavor.

Suggestions for Presentation

• Garnish with extra fresh parsley and dill for a beautiful and aromatic finish.
• Serve in large soup bowls or bread bowls for a rustic touch.