Vegetable Beef Soup

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of Vegetable Beef Soup to wrap you in warmth and comfort, especially on a chilly day. Picture this: tender chunks of beef simmered to perfection, surrounded by a medley of vibrant vegetables soaking up all the delicious flavors. Every spoonful feels like a hug from the inside out. This soup is the ultimate answer to the question of what to make when you want something hearty, nutritious, and oh-so-satisfying.

What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility. You can easily customize it based on what you have in your fridge or pantry, making it a go-to dish for those busy weeknights or lazy weekends. And let’s be honest—who doesn’t love a one-pot meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious?

I stumbled upon this recipe during a particularly cold winter when I needed something nourishing and warming. My kids were coming home from school, cold and tired, and I wanted to serve them something that would lift their spirits. The aroma of simmering beef and fresh vegetables filled our home, and before I knew it, we were gathered around the dinner table, bowls in hand, laughing and sharing stories as we enjoyed this delightful soup. Now, it’s become a family favorite, often requested when the weather turns crisp.

So grab your apron and let’s dive into this delicious, hearty Vegetable Beef Soup that’s sure to become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With minimal prep and cooking time, this soup is perfect for busy nights. The slow simmer does all the hard work for you, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Family-Friendly: Packed with nutritious veggies and tender beef, this soup is a hit with both kids and adults. It’s a great way to sneak in some healthy ingredients while keeping everyone satisfied.
• Rich in Flavor: The combination of savory beef, aromatic herbs, and fresh vegetables creates a rich, comforting broth that you won’t be able to resist. Each bite is bursting with flavor!
• Customizable: Feel free to use whatever vegetables you have on hand! Whether it’s green beans, corn, or kale, this soup can adapt to your preferences or what’s in season.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep. It’s a great way to enjoy a delicious homemade meal without the fuss on busy days.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (Prep: 20 minutes, Cook: 1 hour 10 minutes)
• Servings: This recipe yields about 6-8 servings, perfect for a family dinner or leftovers for the week.

Nutrition Facts:

• Calories per serving: 350
• Protein: 25g
• Carbs: 30g
• Fat: 15g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Vegetable Beef Soup:

• 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes (for tender, flavorful bites)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for browning the beef)
• 1 medium onion, diced (adds sweetness and depth of flavor)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (for that aromatic punch)
• 3 carrots, sliced (for a hint of sweetness and vibrant color)
• 3 celery stalks, sliced (adds crunch and earthiness)
• 1 bell pepper, diced (for a pop of color and sweetness)
• 4 cups beef broth (for a rich, savory base)
• 2 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh, adds acidity and richness)
• 2 cups green beans, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces (for freshness)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (for earthy flavor)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (for an aromatic touch)
• 1 bay leaf (to infuse a subtle depth of flavor)
• Salt and pepper, to taste (essential for enhancing flavors)
• 1 cup frozen peas (added near the end for a burst of sweetness and color)

Optional Additions:

• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 zucchini, diced (for extra veggies)
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (adds a fresh touch before serving)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these easy steps to whip up your hearty Vegetable Beef Soup.

1st step: Brown the Beef

1. Heat the Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the Beef: Season the beef stew meat with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the beef in batches (to avoid overcrowding) and brown on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial for building flavor!
3. Remove and Set Aside: Once browned, transfer the beef to a plate and set aside.

2nd step: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
2. Add the Other Veggies: Stir in the sliced carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Cook for another 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften.

3rd step: Build the Soup Base

1. Return the Beef: Add the browned beef back into the pot with the vegetables.
2. Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes. Toss in the thyme, oregano, bay leaf, and stir to combine.
3. Bring to a Simmer: Increase the heat to high until the mixture comes to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low to let it simmer.

4th step: Let It Simmer

1. Simmer the Soup: Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for about 45 minutes. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making the beef tender and delicious.
2. Add Green Beans: After 45 minutes, add the green beans to the pot. Continue to simmer for another 10-15 minutes until the green beans are tender but still vibrant.

5th step: Finish with Peas

1. Add Frozen Peas: Stir in the frozen peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes. This adds a pop of color and sweetness.
2. Taste and Adjust: Remove the bay leaf, then taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

6th step: Serve It Up!

1. Ladle and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve it hot with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal.

Optional Cooking Tips:

• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, feel free to add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with cold water, stirring it in and letting it cook for a few more minutes.
• For Extra Flavor: Consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce for an extra depth of flavor while simmering.

How to Serve

This Vegetable Beef Soup is perfect on its own, but here are some great serving suggestions to make it even more special:

• With Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of warm, crusty bread or homemade rolls for dipping.
• Over Rice or Noodles: Spoon the soup over a bowl of cooked rice or egg noodles for a filling meal.
• With a Salad: Pair with a light green salad drizzled with vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.

Additional Tips

To ensure your Vegetable Beef Soup turns out perfectly every time, here are five helpful tips:

1. Use Quality Beef: Choose good-quality beef stew meat for better flavor and tenderness. Look for marbled cuts, as the fat adds richness to the soup.
2. Prep Ahead: Chop your vegetables ahead of time to make the cooking process even smoother, especially on busy days.
3. Use Homemade Broth: If you have homemade beef broth on hand, use it! It adds a deeper flavor compared to store-bought options.
4. Don’t Rush the Simmer: Allow the soup to simmer low and slow for the best flavor. Patience is key!
5. Store Leftovers Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The soup can also be frozen for up to three months.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to get creative with this Vegetable Beef Soup! Here are some tasty variations to consider:

• Vegetarian Option: For a meatless version, substitute the beef with hearty lentils or chickpeas. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a lighter soup.
• Add More Veggies: Incorporate seasonal vegetables like zucchini, squash, or sweet potatoes to change up the flavor profile.
• Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños to the soup for a spicy twist.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or basil to change the flavor. Just remember to add fresh herbs towards the end of cooking for the best taste.

Freezing and Reheating

One of the best things about this soup is how well it freezes! Here’s how to do it:

1. Cool Completely: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before freezing.
2. Portion and Freeze: Divide the soup into airtight containers or freezer bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
3. Label and Freeze: Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to three months.

To Reheat: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick.

FAQs About Vegetable Beef Soup

1. Can I use different cuts of beef?

Absolutely! While stew meat is ideal for this recipe due to its tenderness after slow cooking, you can also use cuts like chuck roast or brisket. Just make sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces and allow for extra cooking time if needed.

2. What if I don’t have beef broth?

No problem! You can substitute beef broth with chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even water. Just keep in mind that the flavor may be slightly different. If using water, consider adding a tablespoon of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for added depth.

3. Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! This recipe is very flexible. Feel free to add or swap in any vegetables you enjoy or have on hand, such as potatoes, corn, or spinach. Just be mindful of cooking times; add quicker-cooking vegetables like spinach in the last few minutes of simmering.

4. How long does Vegetable Beef Soup last in the fridge?

The soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For best flavor and quality, try to consume it within this time frame.

5. Can I freeze Vegetable Beef Soup?

Yes! This soup freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely, then portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

6. How can I thicken the soup?

If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a slurry of cornstarch and cold water, or mash some of the vegetables in the soup to create a heartier texture. Alternatively, you can let it simmer uncovered for a bit longer to reduce the liquid.

7. What spices can I add for more flavor?

Feel free to experiment with herbs and spices! A teaspoon of smoked paprika can add a nice smokiness, while fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can enhance the flavor. Just remember to adjust according to your taste preferences.

8. Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, this Vegetable Beef Soup is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free beef broth. Always check the labels on your ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs.

9. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?

Certainly! For a slow cooker, brown the beef and sauté the vegetables as directed, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. For an Instant Pot, use the sauté function to brown the beef and vegetables, then add the remaining ingredients and cook on high pressure for about 30 minutes.

10. What should I serve with Vegetable Beef Soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider serving it with crusty bread, a fresh garden salad, or over cooked rice or noodles for a more filling meal.

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Conclusion

There you have it—an easy, hearty Vegetable Beef Soup that will warm your soul and bring your family together around the dinner table. With its rich flavors, tender beef, and colorful vegetables, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your home, just like it is in mine.

Next time you’re looking for a comforting dish to warm your heart and fill your belly, remember this delightful soup. Grab a bowl, a slice of bread, and enjoy the cozy, homey feeling that only a homemade meal can bring. Happy cooking!