Hearty Scotch Broth (Stew – Soup)
Description
Scotch Broth is a legendary Scottish soup known for its deep, savory flavors and nourishing qualities. This version uses tender beef cubes, pearl barley, and a medley of root vegetables like carrots, celery, and rutabaga to create a thick, hearty broth. The barley adds a pleasant chewiness and helps thicken the soup naturally as it simmers. Ideal for chilly evenings, this stew requires minimal active effort but rewards you with a rich, aromatic meal that tastes even better the next day. It is a perfect example of simple, rustic cooking that relies on quality ingredients and slow simmering to develop a robust, satisfying flavor profile.Ingredients
Directions
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In a large saucepot, combine the beef consomm&# 195;©, 8 cups of water, celery, carrots, rutabaga, beef cubes, and barley.
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Place the pot over high heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
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Once boiling, skim any fat or impurities that rise to the surface using a spoon.
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Reduce the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer, cover the pot, and cook for 1 hour, or until the vegetables begin to soften.
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Add the onion wedges to the pot, uncover, and continue simmering for another 30 minutes, or until the onion and beef are tender.
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Before serving, sprinkle the hot soup with chopped fresh parsley.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 542.0kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 28.2g44%
- Saturated Fat 11.1g56%
- Cholesterol 144.4mg49%
- Sodium 207.2mg9%
- Total Carbohydrate 18.3g7%
- Dietary Fiber 4.4g18%
- Sugars 4.8g
- Protein 50.1g101%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Storage: Scotch broth keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors tend to deepen and improve after resting overnight. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Substitutions: If beef consommé is unavailable, you can use a strong beef stock or broth. For the barley, pearl barley is traditional, but hulled barley can be used if you adjust cooking time accordingly.
Variations: Feel free to add other root vegetables like parsnips or potatoes for extra heartiness. A splash of vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice at the end can brighten the rich flavors.