Appetizers & Starters > Soups & Broths > Broths & Consommés > Beef Consommé

Quick Beef Consommé

A faster version of beef consommé using store-bought beef broth, perfect for when you're short on time but still crave that clarified richness. This recipe focuses on enhancing and clarifying pre-made broth for a delightful result.

Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
1.5 hours
Servings
4-6
Ingredients
  • 8 cups Low-Sodium Beef Broth
  • 1/2 lb Ground Beef
  • 2 large Egg Whites
  • 1/2 cup Carrot (finely diced)
  • 1/2 cup Celery (finely diced)
  • 1/2 cup Onion (finely diced)
  • 1 tbsp Tomato Paste
  • 1 Bay Leaf
  • 5 Black Peppercorns
  • 1 Fresh Thyme Sprig
  • 2 tbsp Dry Sherry (optional)
  • To taste Salt
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Enhancing the Broth

Pour the beef broth into a large stockpot. Add the tomato paste, bay leaf, peppercorns, and thyme sprig. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

Preparing the Clarification Raft

In a bowl, combine the ground beef, egg whites, diced carrot, celery, and onion. Mix well to create a homogenous mixture for the clarification raft.

Clarifying the Consommé

Gently spread the ground beef mixture (clarification raft) evenly over the surface of the simmering broth. Ensure it forms a solid layer.

Simmering and Clarifying

Reduce the heat to low, ensuring the broth simmers very gently. As the broth heats, the egg whites will coagulate, forming a raft that traps impurities. Create a small hole in the raft to allow steam to escape.

Patience is Key

Let the consommé simmer undisturbed for about 1 to 1.5 hours. The raft will gradually clarify the broth, leaving it clear and refined.

Straining the Consommé

Carefully ladle the clarified consommé from the pot, avoiding disturbing the raft. Strain the consommé through a fine-mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth to remove any remaining particles. Discard the raft.

Seasoning and Finishing

Season the consommé with salt to taste. Stir in the dry sherry (if using) for added depth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Serving

Serve the quick beef consommé hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley. This refined broth is perfect as a starter or a light meal.

← Quick & Easy Chicken Broth from Scraps Refreshing Watermelon Gazpacho →

FAQ

  • Can I skip the dry sherry?

    Yes, the dry sherry is optional. It adds a layer of complexity but can be omitted if you prefer a simpler flavor.
  • Why is it important not to stir the broth after adding the raft?

    Stirring will break up the raft and prevent it from effectively clarifying the broth. The undisturbed raft is crucial for trapping impurities.
  • Can I use a different type of ground meat?

    Ground beef works best for flavor and clarification, but you could experiment with ground veal for a lighter flavor profile.
  • How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

    This recipe relies on beef broth and ground beef for flavor. To make it vegetarian, you would need a different recipe altogether. Consider a vegetable consommé instead.