Clear Beef Soup
A light, flavorful clear beef soup featuring mushrooms, lemon slices, and fresh parsley, perfect for a quick, soothing appetizer or light meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix hot water, instant bouillon, and soy sauce in a 4-cup measure.
- Microwave uncovered on High (100%) for 5 to 7 minutes until boiling.
- Slice mushrooms into small bowls.
- Add lemon slices to each bowl and pour the broth over them.
- Garnish with parsley sprigs before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a dash of sesame oil or a few slices of ginger. If you don't have instant bouillon, homemade beef stock can be a great substitute. You can also experiment with other mushrooms, such as shiitake or oyster, for a different taste profile. Make sure to slice the lemon thinly to enhance the broth's brightness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this clear beef soup as a light appetizer or alongside a fresh salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Rice Parisian for a comforting duo. For added texture, consider serving with crusty bread for dipping or a light Asian-inspired side like edamame.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If using a microwave, heat in short increments, stirring in between, to avoid overheating and losing flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Clear Beef Soup contains roughly 13 calories, with 1g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1364mg per serving (59% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh herbs instead of parsley?
Absolutely! Fresh cilantro or green onions can be great alternatives to parsley, adding a different flavor profile. Just be sure to adjust the amount based on your taste preferences.
Is there a vegetarian option for this soup?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version by using vegetable bouillon instead of instant beef bouillon. Replace the soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option if needed.
What can I add to make this soup heartier?
To make the soup more filling, consider adding cooked noodles or rice. You could also include diced tofu or vegetables like bok choy and carrots for extra nutrition and flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).