Beef, Barley, and Pickle Soup (Rassolnik)

This Beef, Barley, and Pickle Soup (Rassolnik) is a traditional, comforting dish that combines tender beef, hearty barley, and the tangy crunch of pickles in a savory broth. Perfect for a filling meal, this Russian-inspired soup is packed with flavor, featuring classic ingredients like potatoes, carrots, onions, and dill. The barley soup is simmered to perfection and can be customized with your favorite seasonings. Serve it with a dollop of sour cream for added richness. Ideal for cold weather, this soup is a deliciously satisfying and nourishing meal.

Ingredients:

• 12 cups water
• 1 lb lean beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 cup barley, rinsed
• 1/2 Tbsp salt (plus more to taste)
• 3 medium potatoes, diced
• 1 carrot, thinly sliced
• 6 baby pickles (or 3 adult pickles), or 1 1/2 cups diced pickles
• 4 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 carrot, grated
• 1 onion, finely diced
• 2 celery sticks, finely sliced
• 1 Tbsp tomato paste or ketchup
• 2 Tbsp fresh dill (optional, but recommended)
• 2 bay leaves
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• Sour cream, for serving (optional)
• Extra dill, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Base: In a large pot, combine 12 cups of water, beef, barley, and 1/2 Tbsp of salt. Partially cover with the lid and bring to a light boil. Simmer for 30 minutes, skimming off any impurities that rise to the top to keep the soup clear.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: In a separate pan, heat 1 Tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat. Sauté the pickles for a few minutes, then add them, along with the diced potatoes and sliced carrots, to the soup pot. Let this cook for an additional 10 minutes while you prepare the zazharka (the aromatic base).
3. Make the Zazharka: In a large skillet, heat 3 Tbsp of olive oil and sauté the diced onion for 2 minutes. Add the grated carrot and sliced celery, cooking until the carrots soften, about 5 minutes. Stir in 1 Tbsp of tomato paste (or ketchup), then add this mixture to the soup pot.
4. Add Seasonings: Toss in 2 bay leaves, 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper, and 2 Tbsp of dill (optional). Season with additional salt to taste (about 1/2 Tbsp more). Let the soup simmer for another 2 minutes, or until the potatoes are cooked through and easily pierced with a fork.
5. Serve: Serve the soup hot with a dollop of sour cream and extra dill if desired.

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Tips:

• Skimming the Broth: Skimming off any impurities while boiling the beef ensures a clear, cleaner broth for your soup.
• Pickle Choice: Use firm, sour pickles to balance the richness of the beef and the soup’s overall flavor.
• Adjust Salt to Taste: As with many soups, taste and adjust the salt level as needed.

Variations and Substitutions:

• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, substitute the beef with mushrooms or a plant-based protein, and use vegetable broth in place of water.
• Different Grains: If you don’t have barley, you can use rice or another grain of your choice. Adjust the cooking time depending on the grain you use.
• Spicy Twist: Add a touch of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a spicier version of Rassolnik.

FAQs:

Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, this soup actually tastes better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I freeze Beef, Barley, and Pickle Soup?
A: Yes, you can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. Reheat on the stove when ready to serve.

Q: What can I use instead of dill?
A: If you’re not a fan of dill, you can substitute it with parsley or thyme for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions:

• With Bread: Serve with crusty bread or rye bread for a hearty and satisfying meal.
• Sour Cream: Adding a dollop of sour cream enhances the richness and balances the tanginess of the pickles.
• Salad Side: Pair with a light, crisp salad to complement the rich and savory flavors of the soup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Comforting & Hearty: This soup is the perfect balance of savory, tangy, and hearty, making it ideal for colder weather.
• Unique Flavor Profile: The combination of beef, barley, and pickles creates a distinctive flavor that’s both surprising and satisfying.
• Simple Ingredients: With common pantry items and a few fresh ingredients, you can make a nourishing, flavorful meal from scratch.
• Great for Meal Prep: This soup stores well and can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for busy days when you need something warming and delicious.