Goveja Juha

Goveja Juha Recipe from Slovenia - Beef Soup with Vegetables

Region / culture: Slovenia | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 2-3 hours | Servings: 6-8

Introduction

Goveja Juha, also known as Slovenian Beef Soup, is a traditional Slovenian dish that is hearty, comforting, and perfect for a cold winter day. This soup is made with lean beef, vegetables, and a flavorful broth that is simmered to perfection.

History

Goveja Juha has been a staple in Slovenian cuisine for centuries. It is a dish that is often enjoyed during family gatherings, holidays, and special occasions. The recipe has been passed down through generations, with each family adding their own unique twist to the dish.

Ingredients

1 kg of lean beef with bone
1 soup bone
3 liters of water
8 grains of black pepper
1 onion
some cloves of garlic
1 bay leaf
2 carrots
2 ribs of celery and leaves
1 sprig of parsley
salt to taste

How to prepare

Combine all ingredients, then add cold water and bring to a boil.
Reduce the heat, add more cold water, and simmer on low temperature for 2 to 3 hours.

Variations

Add barley or rice for a heartier soup.
Use different vegetables such as potatoes, peas, or green beans.
Add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice for a tangy twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Use lean beef with bone for the best flavor and texture.

- Be sure to skim off any foam that rises to the surface while simmering the soup.

- For a richer flavor, you can roast the beef bones before adding them to the soup.

- Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences by adding more salt, pepper, or herbs.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Goveja Juha hot with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad.

Cooking Techniques

Simmer the soup on low heat for a few hours to allow the flavors to develop.

- Skim off any impurities that rise to the surface for a clear broth.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use chicken or vegetable broth instead of water for a different flavor profile.

- Substitute beef with lamb or pork for a different variation.

Make Ahead Tips

Goveja Juha can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the soup with fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Goveja Juha with a glass of red wine or a light beer for a perfect pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Goveja Juha in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 200 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 10g per serving

Fats

Fats: 5g per serving

Proteins

Proteins: 25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Goveja Juha is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens.

Summary

Goveja Juha is a nutritious and satisfying dish that is low in carbs and fats, but high in proteins and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Goveja Juha is a classic Slovenian beef soup that is hearty, comforting, and full of flavor. With a few simple ingredients and some time to simmer, you can enjoy this delicious dish with your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Goveja Juha. It was a cold winter's day, and I was visiting my dear friend Ana in her cozy kitchen. As soon as I walked in, I was greeted by the most incredible aroma wafting through the air. Ana had been simmering a pot of beef soup on the stove, and the rich, savory scent filled the room, warming me to my core.

I watched in awe as Ana effortlessly moved around the kitchen, adding ingredients with precision and care. She explained to me that Goveja Juha was a traditional Slovenian beef soup, made with tender pieces of beef, root vegetables, and a fragrant broth. She had learned the recipe from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through generations.

As I sat at the kitchen table, savoring each spoonful of the hearty soup, I knew that I had to learn how to make it myself. Ana graciously agreed to teach me, and we spent the rest of the afternoon cooking together, bonding over our shared love of good food and family traditions.

Over the years, I have made Goveja Juha countless times, each batch a reminder of that special day in Ana's kitchen. I have added my own twist to the recipe, experimenting with different herbs and spices to make it truly my own. But no matter how I choose to prepare it, the soup always brings me back to that moment of connection and shared heritage.

I have since shared the recipe with my own family and friends, passing on the tradition of Goveja Juha to the next generation. It has become a staple in our household, a dish that we turn to for comfort and nourishment in times of need.

As I sit here now, stirring a pot of Goveja Juha on the stove, I am filled with gratitude for the food that has brought me so much joy and connection over the years. The recipe may have originated from a friend, but it has become a part of me, a reflection of my own journey through life and love.

And so, I continue to cook and share this beloved dish, knowing that with each spoonful, I am honoring the traditions and memories that have shaped me into the cook and the person that I am today.