Restorative Beef and Cabbage Soup (Shchi)

onion (cut in half)

carrot (cut in 3-4 pieces)

bay leaf

whole peppercorns

salt

litres/8 cups water

stewing beef

medium potatoes (peeled and cut into large chunks)

small savoy or white cabbage (sliced/ approximately 2 cups)

carrots (shredded)

onion (chopped)

butter

each chopped parsley and dill

salt and pepper

sour cream for serving