Veal and Mushroom Soup

The Story of the Dish:
Veal and Mushroom Soup is a recipe that brings to the table not only a delicious dish, but also the tradition and warmth of old-fashioned home kitchens. Inspired by ancient recipes, this soup combines simple yet flavor-packed ingredients to create an unforgettable taste. Adding mushrooms—whether dried or fresh—lends a distinctive aroma, while handmade noodles bring a touch of authenticity and love to each bowl. It’s the perfect soup for chilly days, when you crave a nourishing and comforting meal.

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For the soup:

• 500 g veal (preferably from the breast)
• 6 cups water
• 1½ cups homemade noodles
• 4–5 dried mushrooms or 400 g fresh mushrooms (champignons or other white mushrooms)
• 1 carrot
• 1 parsley root
• ½ celery root
• 2 onions
• 3 tablespoons oil
• 1 egg
• ½ cup sour cream
• 2 cups borș (or a bit of citric acid)
• Salt, to taste
• Black peppercorns
• Fresh or dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill and parsley

For the noodles:

• 1½ cups wheat flour
• 2 eggs
• 1/3 cup water
• Salt, to taste

Preparation Method:

Preparing the Soup:

1. Cut the veal into bite-sized pieces and place in cold water. Bring to a gentle simmer, skimming off foam, until the meat is tender.
2. If using dried mushrooms, wash thoroughly and soak for 3–4 hours, then boil separately. If using fresh mushrooms, wash and slice thinly.
3. Finely chop the onions, carrot, parsley root, and celery. Sauté them gently in oil until lightly browned.
4. To the meat broth, add the mushrooms (including the soaking liquid if using dried), homemade noodles, and sautéed vegetables. Simmer for 10–15 minutes.

Finishing the Soup:

1. Five minutes before turning off the heat, stir in the boiled and strained borș.
2. Season with salt, peppercorns, and thyme.
3. Whisk the egg with the sour cream, then temper by adding a ladle of hot soup. Pour the mixture back into the pot, stir gently, and heat through without boiling.

Preparing the Homemade Noodles:

1. In a bowl, combine flour, eggs, and salt, gradually adding water. Knead into a firm, elastic dough.
2. Cover with a clean towel and rest for 20–30 minutes.
3. On a floured surface, roll the dough thin and let it dry for 10–20 minutes.
4. Cut into strips 4–5 cm wide, then slice each strip into fine noodles.

Assembly and Serving:
Serve the soup hot in deep bowls, garnished with meat, a dollop of sour cream, and chopped fresh herbs. For extra flavor, accompany with a slice of fresh bread or warm mămăligă.

Recommendations:
This soup is ideal for family meals or special occasions. The complex flavors and the texture of homemade noodles make it a memorable dish that will impress guests or bring a taste of tradition to your kitchen. For a bolder note, serve with a pickled hot pepper on the side.

Why are homemade noodles important in this recipe?
Answer: Homemade noodles provide an authentic taste and superior texture, absorbing the soup’s flavors perfectly and contributing to the ideal consistency, making this dish a deeper culinary experience.

How does the choice of mushrooms affect the soup’s flavor?
Answer: Dried mushrooms, like porcini, deliver an intense, earthy aroma that enriches the soup. Fresh mushrooms, such as champignons, add a delicate note and meaty texture, perfect for a lighter, subtler version.

What is the role of borș in this recipe?
Answer: Borș adds a refreshing acidity that balances the natural sweetness of vegetables and the richness of the meat. It is essential in Romanian soups for authenticity and a hint of freshness.

How should dried mushrooms be prepared for the soup?
Answer: Rinse dried mushrooms well to remove impurities, soak in warm water for 3–4 hours, then boil separately. The soaking liquid can be added to the soup for an extra flavor boost.

What tricks ensure tender veal?
Answer: Cook the veal slowly in cold water, skimming foam for a clear broth. Adding a bay leaf or a splash of lemon juice can enhance tenderness during simmering.

How can the recipe include more vegetables?
Answer: Add zucchini, peas, or bell peppers at the end of cooking to maintain texture and nutrients, bringing additional color and freshness.

What are the best side dishes for Veal and Mushroom Soup?
Answer: Traditional sides include homemade bread or warm mămăligă. For a spicy twist, serve with pickled hot peppers. Pickles or red onion salad also complement the soup perfectly.

Why sauté vegetables before adding to the soup?
Answer: Sautéing enhances their flavor, allowing natural sugars to caramelize and add sweetness and depth to the soup.

How do you achieve the perfect noodle dough?
Answer: Knead flour with eggs and a little salted water into a dough that is elastic yet firm. Resting for 20–30 minutes before rolling makes cutting easier and the noodles more tender.

How can this recipe be personalized for an exotic twist?
Answer: Add spices like turmeric or ginger for a different aroma profile. Replace sour cream with coconut milk for a creamier, international-inspired version.