How to Make Turkish Soup with Beans and Beef
Turkish cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and hearty meals, and one of the most beloved dishes is the Turkish soup with beans and beef, known as "Kuru Fasulye." This comforting soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. If you're looking to try your hand at this traditional dish, follow this easy recipe.
Ingredients
To make a hearty Turkish soup with beans and beef, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup dried white beans (e.g., navy beans or cannellini beans)
- 1 lb beef (cubed, preferably chuck or stewing beef)
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 medium carrots (diced)
- 2 medium potatoes (diced)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 4 cups beef broth or water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beans
Start by soaking the dried beans in water overnight. This helps to soften them and reduces cooking time. If you forget to soak them, you can do a quick soak by boiling them for 5 minutes, then removing from heat and letting them sit covered for an hour.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed beef and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Veggies
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 3 to 5 minutes. Next, add the diced carrots and potatoes, stirring occasionally for another 5 minutes.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Return the browned beef to the pot. Stir in the tomato paste, paprika, and black pepper. Mix everything well for about 2 minutes to help release the flavors.
Step 5: Add Liquid and Beans
Drain and rinse the soaked beans, then add them to the pot. Pour in the beef broth or water, bringing the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the beans and beef are tender.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Once the soup is cooked, taste and season with salt as needed. If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the beans against the side of the pot. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Tips for Enjoying Your Soup
This Turkish soup with beans and beef is perfect on its own or served with a side of crusty bread. For an authentic touch, enjoy it with a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or add a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra zing.
Cooking this hearty soup not only nourishes you but also brings a taste of Turkish tradition to your dining table. So gather your ingredients and enjoy making this delightful dish with your family and friends!