Get ready to embark on a culinary journey to Portugal with this mind-blowing Pote Extremento Thick Soup that promises to warm your soul and tantalize your taste buds! Imagine a hearty, rich soup packed with tender meat, melt-in-your-mouth vegetables, and a depth of flavor that will transport you straight to the rustic kitchens of Portuguese countryside. This isn't just a soup - it's a complete meal that will have your family and friends begging for seconds, and maybe even the recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Portuguese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb fun meat (beef or pork)
- 2 cups diced potatoes
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by washing, peeling, and chopping vegetables. Cut the fun meat into bite-sized cubes, approximately 1-inch pieces.
- Heat a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add the meat cubes and brown them on all sides, creating a rich caramelized exterior. This process should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the browned meat and set aside. In the same pot, add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, being careful not to burn the garlic. Stir continuously to prevent scorching.
- Return the browned meat to the pot. Sprinkle paprika, salt, and pepper over the meat and vegetables, stirring to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Pour in the beef broth, then add diced potatoes and chopped carrots. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer.
- Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 35-40 minutes, or until the meat is tender and vegetables are soft. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. The soup should have a thick, hearty consistency.
- Serve hot in deep bowls, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley. Accompany with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Tips
- Choose the Right Meat: For the most tender results, select well-marbled beef or pork that will break down beautifully during slow cooking.
- Browning is Key: Take your time when browning the meat. Those caramelized edges create an incredible depth of flavor that makes this soup extraordinary.
- Don't Rush the Simmer: Low and slow is the secret to tender meat and perfectly melded flavors. Resist the urge to increase the heat.
- Fresh Herbs Matter: Use fresh parsley for garnishing - it adds a bright, fresh contrast to the rich, hearty soup.
- Bread Pairing: Serve with a crusty Portuguese bread or rustic sourdough to soak up all the delicious broth.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This soup tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make it in advance!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 85mg
