How to Make Turkish Soup with Ground Beef and Spinach
Turkish cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and comforting dishes, and one such delightful recipe is Turkish soup with ground beef and spinach. This nutritious soup is easy to prepare and packed with flavors, making it a perfect meal for any time of the year. Follow this simple recipe to create a delicious bowl of Turkish soup that will warm your soul.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup rice or orzo pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until the beef is browned, stirring occasionally. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Step 3: Add Spices and Tomato Paste
Once the beef is browned, stir in the paprika, salt, black pepper, and tomato paste. Mix well until the beef is evenly coated with spices, allowing the mixture to cook for about 2 minutes. This step infuses the beef with aromatic flavors.
Step 4: Combine with Broth
Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Add Rice or Orzo
Add the rice or orzo pasta to the soup. Cook according to the package instructions, which typically takes about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 6: Incorporate Spinach
When the rice or pasta is almost done, stir in the chopped spinach. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the spinach is wilted and tender.
Step 7: Finish with Lemon Juice
Remove the pot from heat and add the fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors of the soup. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 8: Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot, and enjoy this hearty Turkish soup with a slice of crusty bread or a dollop of yogurt for an authentic experience.
This Turkish soup with ground beef and spinach is not only delicious but also a nutritious dish that warms you from the inside out. Perfect for cold days or as a comforting dinner option, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite!
For variations, feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or potatoes for extra nutrition and flavor. Enjoy your culinary journey into Turkish cuisine!