Brown Windsor Soup

Brown Windsor Soup Recipe - Traditional British Soup

Region / culture: United Kingdom | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 2 hours | Servings: 4

Introduction

Brown Windsor Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. This traditional British soup is made with stewing steak, vegetables, and a rich beef stock. It is a comforting and satisfying meal that is perfect for a cold winter day.

History

Brown Windsor Soup has a long history dating back to the Victorian era. It was a popular dish among the upper class and was often served at formal dinners and banquets. The soup was named after the Windsor Castle, the royal residence of the British monarchs. Over the years, the recipe has evolved and been adapted to suit modern tastes.

Ingredients

25 g (1 oz) butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 green leek, chopped
1 small carrot, diced
350 g (12 oz) stewing steak
1 tbsp flour
1.4 liter (2 pt) beef stock
1 bouquet garni
1 tbsp chopped parsley

How to prepare

1. In a large pan, melt the butter and cook the onion for 1–2 minutes. Add the leek and carrot, cover, and allow them to sweat for about 5 minutes. Add the beef and stir until it is browned.
2. To make a paste, add the flour to a little of the stock. Then, add this mixture along with the rest of the stock to the pan. Bring everything to a boil. Add the bouquet garni, cover, and simmer very gently for 2 hours.
3. Remove the bouquet garni. Liquidize the soup and serve it garnished with parsley.

Variations

You can add barley or lentils to the soup for added texture and flavor.
For a vegetarian version, you can use vegetable stock and add mushrooms or tofu instead of beef.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to brown the beef before adding it to the soup. This will help to develop a rich flavor.

- Be sure to simmer the soup very gently for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.

- For a thicker soup, you can add more flour to the stock mixture.

- Garnish the soup with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to simmer the soup very gently to allow the flavors to develop fully.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use chicken or vegetable stock instead of beef stock.

- You can use any type of meat or protein in place of the stewing steak.

Make Ahead Tips

This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the soup with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated cheese for added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve the soup with a glass of red wine or a hearty beer for a delicious meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

300 per serving

Carbohydrates

15g per serving

Fats

10g per serving

Proteins

25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This soup is rich in iron, vitamin A, and vitamin C.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (butter) and gluten (flour).

Summary

Brown Windsor Soup is a nutritious and filling meal that is high in protein and low in carbohydrates. It is a great option for those looking for a comforting and satisfying dish.

Summary

Brown Windsor Soup is a classic British dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. This hearty and flavorful soup is sure to warm you up from the inside out. Enjoy it with a side of crusty bread and a glass of wine for a delicious and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Brown Windsor Soup. It was a chilly autumn afternoon, and I was visiting my friend Eleanor in her cozy cottage by the countryside. As soon as I walked in, I was greeted by the most delicious aroma wafting from her kitchen.

Curious, I followed the scent and found Eleanor stirring a large pot of rich, savory soup. When I asked her what she was making, she smiled and said, "Oh, this is my special Brown Windsor Soup. It's a family recipe that has been passed down for generations."

Intrigued, I watched as Eleanor added a medley of vegetables, beef broth, and a secret blend of spices to the pot. The soup simmered on the stove, filling the air with a mouthwatering fragrance that made my stomach growl in anticipation.

As we sat down to enjoy our meal, Eleanor shared the story of how she learned to make Brown Windsor Soup. She told me that her grandmother had taught her the recipe when she was just a young girl, and she had been making it ever since.

Eleanor's grandmother had learned the recipe from a dear friend who had served it at a dinner party many years ago. The soup had been such a hit that everyone had begged for the recipe, and it had become a beloved family tradition ever since.

Listening to Eleanor's story, I was inspired to learn how to make Brown Windsor Soup for myself. I asked her for the recipe, and she gladly shared it with me, along with some helpful tips and tricks for making it just right.

I returned home that evening with a newfound determination to master the art of making Brown Windsor Soup. I gathered all the ingredients I would need and set to work in my own kitchen, channeling Eleanor's expertise as I chopped, stirred, and simmered the soup to perfection.

The first time I made Brown Windsor Soup, it was a resounding success. The flavors were rich and robust, the vegetables tender and flavorful, and the broth a hearty base that warmed me from the inside out. I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment knowing that I had mastered a recipe that had been passed down through generations.

Over the years, I have continued to make Brown Windsor Soup for my family and friends, each time adding my own personal touch to the recipe. Whether it's a dash of extra seasoning or a new twist on the traditional ingredients, I love experimenting with different variations to keep the dish fresh and exciting.

As I look back on the journey that led me to discover the magic of Brown Windsor Soup, I am grateful for the friendships, memories, and stories that have enriched my life along the way. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and I am grateful for the opportunity to share that passion with others through this beloved recipe.

So now, whenever I make Brown Windsor Soup, I can't help but think of Eleanor and her grandmother, and the legacy of love and tradition that lives on in each comforting spoonful. And I know that as long as I continue to cook and create in the kitchen, the spirit of those who came before me will always be present, guiding me with every delicious bite.