MEAT MINESTRONE - The Days of the Merla

Minestrone with beef: the perfect recipe for the days of the blackbird

The days of the blackbird, the coldest of the year according to popular tradition, require warm and hearty dishes to face the winter chill. And what better ally than minestrone with beef? This version of the classic Italian comfort food combines the rich taste of stewed meat with the freshness and lightness of seasonal vegetables, giving a nutritious and tasty dish.

Ingredients (for 4-6 people):

• 300 g of beef rib (or other cut for boiled meat)

• 2 potatoes

• 2 carrots

• 1 celery stalk

• 1 onion

• 1 leek

• 200 g of cabbage

• 100 g of borlotti beans (fresh or dried, already soaked)

• 1 courgette

• 1 ripe tomato (or 2 tablespoons tomato puree)

• 1 litre of meat or vegetable broth

• 1 clove of garlic

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

• Bread croutons (optional)

Preparation:

1. Prepare the meat : In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of oil and brown the rib on all sides to seal in the flavors. Add the garlic clove and chopped onion, frying for a few minutes.

2. Add the broth : Pour the hot broth over the meat and cook over low heat for about an hour, until tender.

3. Prepare the vegetables : Meanwhile, dice the potatoes, carrots, celery, leek and courgette. Thinly slice the cabbage and peel the tomato, removing the seeds.

4. Cooking the minestrone : After the meat has been cooking for an hour, add all the vegetables and beans to the pot. Add the chopped tomato and mix well. Continue cooking for another 40-50 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Adjust the flavor : Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the soup is too thick, add a little hot water or broth.

6. To serve : Turn off the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve the minestrone piping hot, accompanied by croutons and, if desired, a sprinkling of grated parmesan.

Tips and variations:

• For a more intense flavour , you can add a parmesan crust during cooking, which will release all its aroma into the minestrone.

• If you prefer a lighter version , you can eliminate the meat and replace it with chickpeas or lentils for an alternative protein intake.

• For a rustic touch , try serving the minestrone with slices of toasted bread rubbed with garlic and drizzled with extra virgin olive oil.

With its enveloping warmth and rich, genuine flavor, minestrone with beef is the ideal dish to warm your body and soul on cold winter days. Perfect for pampering yourself during the cold winter days and recharging your batteries with energy and well-being!

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