The BEST Vegetable Beef Soup

This hearty vegetable beef soup is a comforting and satisfying dish packed with tender beef, fresh vegetables, and a rich broth. Perfect for chilly days or when you need a wholesome and nourishing meal, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutritious and hearty: Packed with vegetables and protein-rich beef, this soup is as healthy as it is filling.
• Customizable: You can easily adapt it to include your favorite vegetables or use what’s already in your pantry.
• Perfect for meal prep: This soup stores well, making it ideal for leftovers or make-ahead meals.
• Comforting: With a rich and flavorful broth, this recipe is the perfect comfort food for cold weather or when you’re feeling under the weather.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Olive oil
• Onion, diced
• Garlic, minced
• Carrots, peeled and sliced
• Celery, chopped
• Potatoes, peeled and diced
• Green beans, trimmed and cut
• Corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• Diced tomatoes, with juice
• Tomato paste
• Beef broth
• Bay leaves
• Dried herbs (thyme, oregano, or Italian seasoning)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the beef and sear until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté the onions and garlic until fragrant and softened.
3. Add the carrots and celery, cooking for 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the potatoes, green beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste. Mix well.
5. Return the beef to the pot and pour in the beef broth. Add bay leaves and your choice of dried herbs.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 1-1.5 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors meld together.
7. Remove the bay leaves and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe serves 6-8 people.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Variations

• Add grains: Stir in cooked rice, barley, or quinoa for added texture and heartiness.
• Use different meats: Substitute stew beef with ground beef, chicken, or even turkey.
• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicier soup.
• Vegetarian option: Skip the beef and beef broth. Use vegetable broth and add hearty mushrooms for depth of flavor.
• Different veggies: Try adding zucchini, peas, or parsnips for a twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in a pot over medium heat or in the microwave.
• Freezer: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating tip: Add a splash of water or broth when reheating to restore the soup’s consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

Yes, brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.

2. What cut of beef is best for vegetable beef soup?

Beef chuck or stew meat works best due to its tenderness after slow cooking.

3. Can I make this soup in advance?

Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.

4. Can I use canned vegetables?

Yes, but add them during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking to prevent overcooking.

5. How can I thicken the broth?

You can mash a few of the potatoes or add a cornstarch slurry for a thicker consistency.

6. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as written, this recipe is gluten-free. Just double-check your beef broth and other ingredients.

7. What can I serve with this soup?

Serve it with crusty bread, cornbread, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

8. Can I use frozen beef?

Yes, but ensure it is fully thawed and patted dry before searing.

9. What herbs work best in this soup?

Thyme, oregano, or a blend like Italian seasoning pair beautifully with this soup.

10. Can I add wine to the broth?

Yes, deglaze the pot with red wine after searing the beef for added depth of flavor.

Conclusion

This vegetable beef soup is a comforting classic that never goes out of style. Packed with wholesome ingredients, it’s perfect for a hearty meal any time of year. With its versatility and robust flavor, it’s bound to become a staple in your recipe collection. Give it a try and enjoy a bowl of pure comfort!

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