Introduction

This Asian-style braised beef soup is a quick yet flavorful dish that combines tender beef with aromatic spices and fresh vegetables. Perfect for a weeknight meal, it brings a comforting warmth and a unique taste that will delight your palate. With just five main ingredients and a minimal cooking time, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– Beef, cut into cubes (500g)
– Ginger, finely chopped (1 tablespoon)
– Garlic, minced (2 cloves)
– Beef broth (4 cups)
– Soy sauce (3 tablespoons)
– Green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Gather all necessary ingredients for the soup, ensuring you have everything prepped and ready to go for efficient cooking.

Brown the Beef

In a large pot, heat some oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until it’s browned on all sides. This step is important for developing flavor.

Add Aromatics

Once the beef is browned, add chopped garlic and ginger to the pot. Sauté for a couple of minutes until fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Incorporate Broth and Seasonings

Pour in beef broth, soy sauce, and any additional seasonings you prefer. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to let it simmer gently.

Simmer the Soup

Let the soup simmer for at least 15 minutes or until the beef is tender. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Add Vegetables

Once the beef is tender, add any vegetables of your choice, such as bok choy or mushrooms. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables are just tender.

Finish and Serve

Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or green onions, if desired.

Notes

Customize Your Soup

Feel free to add or substitute vegetables based on your preferences or what’s in season. This recipe is versatile and can be adapted.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently before serving.

Freezing Tip

If you want to freeze the soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to two months.

Cook techniques

Marinating the Beef

Using a marinade can enhance the flavor of the beef. Combine soy sauce, garlic, and ginger to create a savory mixture and allow the beef to sit for at least 30 minutes.

Slow Braising

This technique involves cooking the beef slowly at low temperatures, which helps break down tough fibers, resulting in tender and flavorful meat.

Sautéing Vegetables

Start by sautéing aromatic vegetables such as onions and garlic in a bit of oil to build a flavorful base for your soup.

Deglazing the Pot

After browning the beef, use a splash of broth or water to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the pot, adding depth to your soup’s flavor.

Simmering

Allow the soup to simmer gently after adding the broth and other ingredients. This helps all the flavors to meld together beautifully.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute other meats like chicken or pork, but cooking times may vary.

How do I store leftover soup?

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, or freeze for longer storage.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute beef with mushrooms or tofu and use vegetable broth instead.

What can I pair with this soup?

Consider serving it with crusty bread or rice to make a complete meal.

How do I adjust the spice level?

You can increase or decrease the amount of ginger, garlic, or add a spice like chili flakes to control the heat according to your preference.

Conclusion

This Asian-style braised beef soup is a delightful combination of rich flavors and comforting warmth. The simplicity of the recipe, with just a few ingredients, makes it perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. Its versatile nature allows for experimentation, making it a great base for various additions or tweaks to suit your preferences.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Spicy Asian Beef Noodle Soup

Add rice noodles and extra vegetables for a hearty, spicy twist on the traditional soup.

Cilantro Lime Beef Soup

Incorporate fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice for a refreshing flavor profile.

Beef and Mushroom Stir-Fry Soup

Mix in sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers to enhance the umami taste of the beef.

Sesame Ginger Beef Soup

Infuse your soup with sesame oil and fresh ginger for a fragrant and aromatic dish.

Thai Coconut Beef Soup

Substitute broth with coconut milk and add Thai red curry paste for a creamy, spicy soup.