Seljanka (sour stew)

Instructions

1. Cook the beef in the stock with the bay leaf for 40 minutes at a gentle simmer.
2. Meanwhile, fry the onion in a little fat for 5 minutes, then add the smoked meat cut into cubes and the carrots.
3. Stir in the tomato paste and paprika and cook for 2 minutes.
4. Pour this mixture into the stock with the beef and continue cooking for 15 minutes.
5. Mix the flour into a little cold stock, then pour it into the soup to thicken it.
6. Add the chopped gherkins and capers, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Off the heat, stir in the sour cream while whisking so it doesn't curdle, and serve straight away.