Beef Dumpling Soup with Homemade Broth

Warm up with this hearty Beef Dumpling Soup with Homemade Broth, a comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly days. Crafted with love, this recipe features a rich, flavorful broth simmered for hours with soup hens and fresh vegetables, creating a base that’s both nourishing and delicious.

The tender beef dumplings add a satisfying touch, making each bowl a cozy and fulfilling meal. Gather your ingredients and prepare to enjoy a bowl of warmth that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Beef Dumpling Soup with Homemade Broth

Ingredients:

For the Broth:

3/4 pot of water (approximately 4.5 gallons)

2 soup hens (or whole chickens)

3 large carrots, chopped

5 celery stalks, chopped

1 large onion, quartered

4 cloves garlic, smashed

1 beet, peeled and chopped (for color)

1 cup Better than Bouillon chicken base

1 tablespoon beef base

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Beef Dumplings:

1 lb ground beef

1/2 cup breadcrumbs

1/4 cup finely chopped onion

1 egg

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh herbs (like parsley or dill) for flavor (optional)

Instructions:

Make the Broth:

In a large pot (6 gallons or similar), fill it 3/4 full with water.

Add the soup hens, chopped carrots, celery, onion, garlic, beet, chicken base, and beef base to the pot.

Bring to a low simmer, ensuring it does not boil, as boiling can make the broth cloudy.

Let the broth simmer for about 6 hours, occasionally skimming off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface.

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed with salt and pepper.

Prepare the Beef Dumplings:

In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Form the mixture into small dumplings, about the size of a tablespoon.

Cook the Dumplings:

After the broth has simmered for 6 hours, strain the broth to remove the solid ingredients.

Return the clear broth to the pot and bring it to a gentle simmer.

Carefully add the beef dumplings to the simmering broth. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through.

Serve:

Ladle the soup into bowls, ensuring each bowl gets plenty of broth and dumplings.

Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy your hearty beef dumpling soup!

Tips:

Customization: Feel free to add other vegetables to the broth, like potatoes or parsnips, for extra flavor and nutrition.

Storage: Leftover broth can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Additional Flavor: Consider adding a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the broth for added depth.

Enjoy your delicious homemade beef dumpling soup!

Notes:

Broth Quality: For the best flavor, use high-quality soup hens or chickens. The longer the broth simmers, the richer the flavor will be.

Avoid Boiling: Keep the broth at a gentle simmer to prevent cloudiness. Boiling can also break down the ingredients too much.

Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like leeks, garlic scapes, or parsnips to the broth for extra flavor and nutrition.

Dumpling Size: Adjust the size of the beef dumplings according to your preference. Smaller dumplings will cook faster, while larger ones will need a bit more time.

Seasoning: Taste the broth throughout the cooking process and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can also add fresh herbs like thyme or bay leaves for added depth.

Storage: The broth can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for longer storage. Dumplings are best fresh, but leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated.

Adding Noodles: For a heartier soup, consider adding egg noodles or rice along with the dumplings.

Make-Ahead: The broth can be made in advance and stored, making it a convenient meal option. Just add freshly made dumplings when ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions: Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill, for added flavor and a pop of color.

Adjusting Richness: If you prefer a lighter soup, you can skim some of the fat off the top of the broth before adding the dumplings.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 6 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use store-bought broth instead of homemade?

Yes, you can use store-bought broth to save time, but homemade broth adds a richer flavor.

Adjust the seasoning accordingly if using store-bought.

What type of ground beef should I use?

Lean ground beef (e.g., 80/20) works well, but you can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

How do I know when the dumplings are done?

The dumplings are done when they float to the surface and a toothpick inserted comes out clean, usually about 15-20 minutes.

Can I make the broth in advance?

Absolutely! The broth can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for longer storage.

How can I adjust the soup for dietary restrictions?

You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs for the dumplings and ensuring your broth base is gluten-free.

What vegetables can I add to the soup?

You can add vegetables like potatoes, peas, or green beans for extra nutrition and flavor.

Can I freeze the soup?

Yes, but it’s best to freeze the broth separately from the dumplings to prevent them from becoming mushy.

Add fresh dumplings when reheating.

What can I use instead of a soup hen?

If you don’t have soup hens, you can use a whole chicken or a mix of chicken parts for a flavorful broth.

How long should I simmer the broth?

Simmer the broth for at least 6 hours to extract maximum flavor.

You can simmer longer for an even richer taste.

Can I add spices to the broth?

Yes! Feel free to add herbs and spices such as thyme, bay leaves, or peppercorns to enhance the flavor of the broth.