Petersburg Chill

Background

Petersburg Chill is a hearty and historic soup, originating from the chilly northern city of St. Petersburg, Russia. Known for its robust flavors and the warmth it brings, this dish has been a staple in Russian cuisine for centuries. The soup combines rich broths with seasonal vegetables, meat, and secret spice blends that have been passed down through generations.

During the long Russian winters, Petersburg Chill serves not only as a meal but as a comforting companion, often enjoyed with family and friends around a communal table. Over the years, variations of this dish have spread across Eastern Europe, but its heart remains deeply rooted in St. Petersburg.

Ingredients

• Beef - 500g, cubed
• Carrot - 2 medium, sliced
• Potato - 3 medium, diced
• Onion - 1 large, chopped
• Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
• Cabbage - 1 small head, shredded
• Bay Leaf - 2 leaves
• Black Pepper - 1 teaspoon, whole
• Salt - to taste
• Beef Broth - 1 liter
• Tomato Paste - 2 tablespoons
• Dill - Fresh, for garnishing

Preparation

1. Rinse the beef cubes under cold water and pat dry with a paper towel.
2. Peel and slice the carrots; dice the potatoes; chop the onion; and mince the garlic.
3. In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
4. Once the beef is browned, remove it from the pot and set aside.

Cooking Process

1. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is transparent.
2. Add the carrots and potatoes. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Return the browned beef to the pot.
4. Add the shredded cabbage and stir to combine all ingredients well.
5. Pour in the beef broth and add bay leaves, black pepper, and salt.
6. Stir in the tomato paste until fully dissolved.
7. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 1 hour, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.
8. Check periodically and stir to maintain consistency. Add more salt if needed.

Enjoying Petersburg Chill

Once the soup is ready, remove it from the heat and let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly. Serve the Petersburg Chill in deep bowls.

Garnish with fresh dill. You can also add a dollop of sour cream on top for an additional layer of flavor and creaminess.

This soup pairs beautifully with hearty rye bread or a warm, crusty French baguette. For the best experience, enjoy with family and friends, perhaps in front of a roaring fire on a cold evening.

Using a Cooking Timer

For precise timing of your cooking steps, consider using a cooking timer to ensure each ingredient cooks to perfection, especially while simmering the soup.

Embrace the warmth and tradition of Petersburg Chill as you savor each spoonful, and let it transport you to the historic streets of St. Petersburg.