Beef Soup (Kharcho) Recipe

If you’re craving a soup that’s both soul-warming and bursting with dynamic flavors, this Beef Soup (Kharcho) Recipe will undoubtedly become a favorite in your kitchen. Originating from Georgia, Kharcho is famous for its meltingly tender beef, aromatic herbs, and irresistible tomato-infused broth with a gentle kick of spice. The rice lends the soup a hearty, satisfying texture, while a vibrant finish of fresh dill and parsley brings every bowl to life. This Beef Soup (Kharcho) Recipe captures the perfect balance of comfort and excitement, making it a must-try for any soup lover looking for something memorable and deeply comforting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Beef Soup (Kharcho) Recipe shines because of its thoughtfully selected yet simple ingredients, each bringing something special to the table. From the richness of the beef to the brightness of fresh herbs, every component is essential to achieve the classic depth and character that makes Kharcho so beloved.

• Beef stew meat (3 lb): Choose well-marbled beef for the most tender and flavorful results; it forms the heart of the soup.
• Salt (3 tsp): This brings out the best in both the beef and vegetables, ensuring well-seasoned bites throughout the soup.
• Light olive oil (4 Tbsp, divided): Perfect for sautéing both the beef and veggies, lending a subtle richness to the base.
• Onion, chopped (1 medium): Provides a savory sweetness and aromatic depth.
• Celery ribs, finely chopped (2): Adds delicate flavor and a tender bite to the broth.
• Beef broth (4 cups) + filtered water (4 cups): This duo creates a broth that is both flavorful and well-balanced, never too strong or light.
• Canned diced tomatoes (28 oz): The backbone of the soup’s tangy, sweet complexity.
• Dry bay leaves (2): Infuses the soup with an earthy, herbal aroma.
• Ground coriander seeds (1 tsp): Adds a fresh, citrusy note that lifts the entire dish.
• Smoked paprika (1 tsp): Provides a subtle warmth and smoky undertone unique to Kharcho.
• Garlic cloves, pressed (2): Delivers pungent flavor that harmonizes with the herbs and spices.
• Uncooked white rice (1/2 cup; Jasmine recommended): Thickens the soup and makes each spoonful extra comforting.
• Fresh lemon juice (2 Tbsp, from 1 medium lemon): Brightens the soup and balances the richness of the beef.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (1/4 cup, plus extra for garnish): Lends a grassy freshness that complements the dill beautifully.
• Fresh dill, chopped (1/4 cup, plus extra for garnish): Highlights the soup’s Georgian roots with its distinctive flavor and aroma.

How to Make Beef Soup (Kharcho) Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Brown the Beef

Begin your adventure by seasoning the beef stew meat generously with salt, which will not only flavor the meat but also draw out moisture for superior browning. In a large Dutch oven or soup pot, heat half the oil over medium-high. Sauté the beef in two batches, allowing space for the pieces to caramelize and develop loads of flavor. Remove the beef from the pot as it’s browned, setting it aside; don’t worry about cooking it through at this stage—tenderness comes later.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the chopped onion and celery to the drippings in the pot, stirring them into the flavorful fond left behind by the beef. If the pot seems dry, add a little more oil. Sauté for about five minutes, letting the vegetables soften and sweeten, building an aromatic foundation for the rest of the dish.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

Return the beef to the pot along with its juices, then add the canned diced tomatoes (with juices), beef broth, water, and bay leaves. Bring everything to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low and cover. Let the soup simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef becomes beautifully tender and the flavors meld into a deeply savory broth—the key to a memorable Beef Soup (Kharcho) Recipe.

Step 4: Add Rice and Seasonings

Stir in the uncooked rice, lemon juice, pressed garlic, ground coriander, and smoked paprika. The rice thickens the soup while soaking up the rich liquid, and the seasonings infuse every spoonful with nuanced warmth and brightness. Cover and simmer for another 20 minutes, ensuring the rice is perfectly cooked and the flavors are fully blended.

Step 5: Finish with Fresh Herbs

Once the rice is tender, remove the pot from the heat and mix in the freshly chopped parsley and dill. Let the soup sit, covered, for 10 minutes to allow the herbs to mellow and infuse their aromatic flavors throughout the Beef Soup (Kharcho) Recipe. Taste and tweak with extra salt and pepper if needed for your perfect balance.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into your favorite bowls, making sure to get a bit of everything—beef, rice, bright tomatoes, and that glorious broth. Sprinkle with additional parsley and dill for a fresh, colorful finish. Enjoy your homemade Beef Soup (Kharcho) Recipe piping hot and utterly satisfying!

How to Serve Beef Soup (Kharcho) Recipe

Garnishes

To keep things traditional and visually stunning, garnish each bowl with a flurry of chopped fresh parsley and dill. You can also add a squeeze of extra lemon or a sprinkle of cracked black pepper for a bold final touch. The herbs not only enliven the presentation but bring unbeatable fragrance to the table.

Side Dishes

Beef Soup (Kharcho) Recipe pairs beautifully with rustic bread—think a warm loaf of sourdough or garlicky flatbread for dunking. For a complete meal, add a simple salad of crisp greens tossed with lemon and olive oil or a serving of marinated vegetables to offset the soup’s richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For special gatherings, serve Kharcho in wide, shallow bowls topped with a swirl of thick yogurt and a few pomegranate seeds—this gives a wonderful contrast of color and tang. You could also ladle the soup into individual mini bread bowls for a fun, hearty twist that guests will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Beef Soup (Kharcho) Recipe keeps exceptionally well in the refrigerator. Allow the soup to cool to room temperature, then transfer to airtight containers. It will stay fresh for up to four days, and the flavors often grow even more complex with a little time to meld.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions using sturdy, freezer-safe containers. Let the soup cool completely before freezing, and leave an inch or so of space at the top for expansion. The rice may soften further after freezing, but the flavors will remain delicious for up to three months.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight if possible. Warm over medium heat on the stovetop, stirring gently until fully heated through. Add a splash of water or broth if the soup thickened after sitting, then brighten the flavors with a squeeze of lemon and a scatter of fresh herbs just before serving.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat in Beef Soup (Kharcho) Recipe?

Absolutely! While beef is traditional and gives the soup its signature depth, you can also use lamb or even chicken for a lighter spin. Adjust cooking times as needed to ensure your protein becomes tender.

What type of rice works best for this recipe?

Jasmine rice is recommended for its gentle fragrance and optimal texture, but other long-grain white rice varieties will work just fine. Avoid instant rice as it can become mushy during the simmering process.

Is Beef Soup (Kharcho) Recipe spicy?

Kharcho is usually more aromatic than spicy, thanks to the coriander and smoked paprika. If you love heat, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne or a dash of chili flakes to give it that extra kick.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes! Sear the beef and sauté the veggies as described, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the beef is tender. Add the rice and seasonings for the final 30 minutes to prevent overcooking.

What can I use instead of dill if I can’t find it?

Fresh tarragon or even a small amount of fennel fronds can mimic dill’s distinctive brightness. Parsley alone also works in a pinch, keeping the soup fresh and herbal.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re feeding a cozy family dinner or impressing guests with something new, this Beef Soup (Kharcho) Recipe delivers big flavors and comfort in every bowl. The combination of tender beef, tomato-rich broth, spices, and fresh herbs is truly something special. Don’t wait—give this recipe a try and let yourself be transported to the heart of Georgian home cooking!

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