Vegetable Beef Soup

Description:

Vegetable Beef Soup is a hearty and comforting dish filled with tender beef, colorful vegetables, and a flavorful broth. This soup is perfect for chilly weather, offering a nutritious and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare. Packed with a variety of vegetables like carrots, celery, potatoes, and tomatoes, it’s a wholesome choice for a cozy dinner or a family-friendly meal. The savory broth and tender beef make each spoonful flavorful and comforting.

Origin:

Vegetable beef soup has roots in traditional American and European cuisines. The combination of beef and vegetables in a broth is a staple in many cultures, known for its versatility and ability to provide warmth and sustenance. It’s especially popular during colder months, offering a hearty, nutritious meal.

Ingredients (Serves 6-8):

For the Soup:

• Beef stew meat: 1 ½ pounds (cut into 1-inch cubes)
• Olive oil: 2 tbsp
• Onion: 1 medium (diced)
• Carrots: 2 large (peeled and sliced)
• Celery stalks: 2 (diced)
• Potatoes: 2 medium (peeled and cubed)
• Green beans: 1 cup (cut into 1-inch pieces)
• Frozen peas: 1 cup
• Canned diced tomatoes: 1 (14.5 oz) can
• Beef broth: 4 cups
• Water: 2 cups
• Garlic: 3 cloves (minced)
• Bay leaves: 2
• Thyme: 1 tsp (dried)
• Salt: 1 ½ tsp (or to taste)
• Black pepper: 1 tsp (or to taste)

Instructions:

Step 1: Brown the Beef

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef stew meat and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides (about 5-7 minutes). Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Broth and Simmer

1. Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), beef broth, and water. Stir to combine.
2. Add the bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a boil over medium-high heat.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

1. Once the soup reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 45-60 minutes, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.

Step 5: Add the Remaining Vegetables

1. Add the cubed potatoes, green beans, and frozen peas to the pot. Stir to combine.
2. Cover and cook for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes and other vegetables are tender.

Step 6: Final Seasoning

1. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
2. Remove the bay leaves and discard them before serving.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

1. Ladle the vegetable beef soup into bowls and serve hot. Pair with crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal.

Tips for Success:

• Tender Beef: If you want extra tender beef, simmer the soup on low for a longer period of time (up to 90 minutes), which allows the beef to become even more melt-in-your-mouth tender.
• Vegetable Variety: Feel free to add or swap in other vegetables like zucchini, corn, or bell peppers for more variety.
• Make Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. You can make it ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze any leftovers for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stove.

Recommendations:

• Serving Suggestions: Serve this soup with a side of crusty bread or cornbread to soak up the delicious broth.
• Pairing: A simple green salad and a glass of red wine (like a Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon) would complement this hearty soup.

Nutrition (Per Serving, 1 cup):

• Calories: ~250
• Protein: 21 g
• Fat: 10 g
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 600 mg

This Vegetable Beef Soup is perfect for warming up on a cold day. It’s hearty, nutritious, and packed with flavor from the tender beef and vibrant vegetables. Enjoy this comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and full of wholesome goodness!