Juneća Supa is a traditional Serbian beef soup, known for its deep, rich flavor and heartiness. It is a comforting dish often served as a starter in Serbian meals, especially during family gatherings and festive occasions. The soup is made with tender beef, a variety of root vegetables, and aromatic herbs, slowly simmered to create a flavorful broth. This soup is not only warming but also nourishing, making it a beloved dish in Serbian cuisine.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs (700g) beef shank or beef with bones (such as marrow bones or beef ribs)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
• 2 large onions, peeled and quartered
• 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 2 parsnips, peeled and sliced
• 1 parsley root, peeled and sliced (optional)
• 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
• Homemade or store-bought noodles (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beef:

   • Rinse the beef under cold water and cut it into large chunks if necessary.
   • In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef and brown it on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

2. Simmer the Beef:

   • Add the quartered onions, bay leaf, and dried thyme to the pot with the beef.
   • Cover the beef with water (about 10-12 cups) and bring it to a boil.
   • Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the broth is flavorful.
   • Skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface during cooking.

3. Prepare the Vegetables:

   • Add the sliced carrots, celery, parsnips, and parsley root (if using) to the pot.
   • Continue to simmer the soup for another 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

4. Add the Potatoes:

   • Add the diced potatoes to the pot and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the potatoes are soft.

5. Season the Soup:

   • Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

6. Serve:

   • Remove the beef from the pot and shred or cut it into bite-sized pieces. Return the meat to the soup.
   • If using, add noodles to the soup and cook according to package instructions.
   • Ladle the Juneća Supa into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or dill if desired.
   • Serve hot, ideally with crusty bread on the side.

Nutritional Information (per 1-cup serving):

• Calories: ~180 kcal
• Proteins: ~15g
• Carbs: ~10g
• Fiber: ~2g

Nutritional Summary: Juneća Supa is a nourishing and satisfying soup, rich in protein from the beef and carbohydrates from the vegetables and optional noodles. It is a hearty yet relatively low-calorie dish, making it suitable as a starter or a light main course. The soup is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, particularly from the vegetables, and is low in fat when made with lean beef. This makes Juneća Supa not only delicious but also a healthy option for a balanced diet