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Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef Ribs
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef ribs and brown them on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. This step will help develop the flavor base for the soup. Once browned, remove the ribs from the pot and set them aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until the onions are softened and fragrant.
Step 3: Add Vegetables and Apples
- Add the chopped carrots and apples to the pot. Stir to combine with the onions and garlic, and let them cook for 3-4 minutes. The apples will begin to release their juices, adding sweetness to the soup.
Step 4: Add Broth and Seasoning
- Pour in the beef broth, then add the dried thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to combine. Return the beef ribs to the pot, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid.
Step 5: Simmer the Soup
- Bring the soup to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef ribs are tender and the flavors have melded together.
Step 6: Remove the Ribs and Shred the Meat
- Once the beef is tender, remove the ribs from the soup and set them aside to cool slightly. Remove the meat from the bones and shred it using two forks. Discard the bones and return the shredded meat to the soup.
Step 7: Final Seasoning and Serve
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if necessary. If you want to add a little tang, stir in the apple cider vinegar. Discard the bay leaf before serving.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve hot.
Tips for the Best Apple Carrot Beef Rib Soup
- Use Bone-In Beef Ribs: Bone-in ribs offer more flavor and richness to the soup. If you’re using boneless beef, you might need to adjust the cooking time as the meat may cook faster.
- Apples for Sweetness: Choose apples with a balanced flavor, such as Granny Smith (tart) or Honeycrisp (sweet), to achieve the right level of sweetness without overpowering the soup.
- Add Extra Veggies: For a more nutritious soup, feel free to add additional vegetables like celery, parsnips, or potatoes.
- Customize the Herbs: While thyme and rosemary are classic choices, you can also experiment with sage, parsley, or oregano for different flavor profiles.
- Slow Cooker Option: If you prefer to make this soup in a slow cooker, brown the beef ribs in a skillet first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours until the meat is tender.
- Make It Spicy: For a touch of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped fresh chili pepper when sautéing the aromatics.
Serving Suggestions
- With Crusty Bread: This soup is perfect with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread to dip into the rich broth.
- Green Salad: Pair the soup with a light green salad to balance the richness of the beef and apples.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve the soup alongside roasted vegetables, like Brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes, for a more substantial meal.
Storage and Reheating
- Storing Leftovers: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: This soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Note that the apples may soften slightly after freezing.
- Reheating: Reheat the soup over low heat on the stovetop, adding a bit of water or broth if needed to thin it out.
Why This Recipe Works
The Apple Carrot Beef Rib Soup combines unexpected ingredients—beef ribs and apples—but the result is a rich, savory soup with a natural sweetness that complements the tender meat and vegetables. The addition of apples brings a subtle, fruity note that pairs perfectly with the earthy carrots and robust beef. This soup is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious, making it a great option for a hearty family dinner or a meal prep for the week ahead.
The Bottom Line
If you’re looking for something new and comforting to add to your soup repertoire, Apple Carrot Beef Rib Soup is the answer. The combination of tender beef, sweet apples, and fresh carrots creates a dish that’s hearty, nourishing, and full of flavor. With simple ingredients and easy instructions, this unique soup is sure to impress your family and friends.
So, grab your ingredients, start cooking, and enjoy the delightful flavors of this Apple Carrot Beef Rib Soup—a comforting dish that’s perfect for any time of the year!
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