Beef Vegetable Soup

Are you looking for a comforting meal that warms you from the inside out? Look no further than this delicious Beef Vegetable Soup! Packed with hearty vegetables and tender beef, this soup is not only delicious but also a nutritious choice for any meal. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you just want to enjoy a bowl of homemade goodness, this recipe is perfect for you.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this satisfying soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 3 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 medium potatoes, diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
• 4 cups beef broth (or more for a thinner soup)
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into pieces
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 bay leaf
• Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish

Cooking Instructions

this recipe

Step 1: Searing the Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat and sear until browned on all sides. This process locks in the flavors and adds depth to your soup.

Step 2: Sautéing Vegetables

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion is translucent. Next, add the sliced carrots, chopped celery, and diced potatoes. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Adding Liquids and Seasonings

Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and the beef broth. Stir in the green beans, dried thyme, dried basil, salt, pepper, and the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.

Step 4: Simmering the Soup

Let the soup simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through. Stir occasionally and adjust the seasoning to your preference.

Step 5: Serving

Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Enjoy it warm with a slice of crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal.

Why You’ll Love This Soup

Nutritious and Wholesome

This Beef Vegetable Soup is loaded with nutritious vegetables, providing a great source of vitamins and minerals. The tender beef adds protein, making it a balanced meal perfect for any time of the day.

Versatile and Customizable

Feel free to customize the soup based on your preferences or what you have on hand. You can add other vegetables like corn, peas, or zucchini. Swap the beef for chicken or make it vegetarian by omitting the meat altogether!

Perfect for Meal Prep

This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days and can also be frozen for longer storage. It’s a fantastic option for meal prep, ensuring you have a nutritious meal ready at your convenience.

Conclusion

This Beef Vegetable Soup recipe is a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire. With its rich flavors and nourishing ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Try it today, and savor the warmth and comfort it brings. Don’t forget to share your experience and variations in the comments below!

Here are some useful Serving and Storage Tips for your Beef Vegetable Soup to ensure it tastes great and stays fresh:

Serving Tips

1. Accompaniments: Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread, garlic bread, or biscuits for a complete meal. You can also pair it with a fresh salad to balance out the flavors.
2. Toppings: Enhance the soup’s flavor by adding toppings such as shredded cheese, fresh herbs (like parsley or cilantro), or a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
3. Presentation: For a more appealing presentation, serve the soup in rustic bowls and sprinkle with fresh herbs. A drizzle of olive oil or a splash of lemon juice can brighten the flavors.
4. Garnishes: Consider adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or freshly cracked black pepper for added depth.

Storage Tips

1. Refrigeration: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Beef Vegetable Soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
2. Freezing: For longer storage, this soup freezes well. Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
3. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, or use a microwave, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened, add a bit of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
4. Avoiding Overcooking: If you plan to store leftovers, it’s best to store the soup without any added pasta or rice, as they can absorb liquid and become mushy. You can always cook fresh pasta or rice to add when serving.
5. Taste and Adjust: When reheating, taste the soup before serving, as flavors can change slightly during storage. Adjust seasonings as needed.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your Beef Vegetable Soup at its best, whether you’re serving it fresh or enjoying leftovers later!

FAQ 1: Can I use different types of meat in this soup?

Answer: Absolutely! While this recipe calls for beef stew meat, you can substitute it with other meats like chicken, turkey, or even pork. For a vegetarian option, consider using plant-based proteins or simply omit the meat altogether and focus on a variety of vegetables.

FAQ 2: What vegetables can I add to Beef Vegetable Soup?

Answer: This soup is very versatile! You can add a variety of vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Great options include corn, peas, zucchini, bell peppers, or even leafy greens like spinach or kale. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary for different vegetables, so add them accordingly.

FAQ 3: How can I thicken my Beef Vegetable Soup?

Answer: If you prefer a thicker soup, there are several methods to achieve this. You can mash some of the potatoes in the soup to create a creamier texture, or you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the soup. Allow it to simmer for a few more minutes until it thickens. Another option is to add a can of drained beans, which will also boost the soup’s nutrition.

FAQ 4: How do I store and reheat leftovers of Beef Vegetable Soup?

Answer: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container for storage. It can be kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator and then heat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. You can add a little extra broth or water if the soup has thickened during storage.

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