Beef Vegetable Soup

Name: Beef Vegetable Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 pound beef stew meat (cut into cubes); 4 cups beef broth; 2 carrots (diced); 2 celery stalks (diced); 1 onion (chopped); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 2 cups diced tomatoes; 1 cup green beans (trimmed and cut); 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Are you craving a warm, hearty meal that’s both nutritious and delicious? Look no further than this beef vegetable soup! Bursting with flavors, this dish combines tender beef, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs in a savory broth. Perfect for chilly evenings or a family gathering, this soup is sure to satisfy your taste buds and keep you cozy. Let’s dive into the recipe that will become a staple in your kitchen!

Ingredients

– 1 pound beef stew meat, cut into cubes
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
– 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 1 hour.

Nutritional Value

Per serving (1 cup):
– Calories: 250
– Protein: 25g
– Fat: 10g
– Carbohydrates: 20g
– Fiber: 4g
This nutritional breakdown is based on one serving.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the beef cubes and brown on all sides.
3. Remove beef and set aside.
4. In the same pot, add onions, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened.
5. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
6. Add the browned beef back into the pot.
7. Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes.
8. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
9. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
10. Simmer for about 45 minutes, adding green beans in the last 10 minutes.

Alternative Ingredients

Feel free to substitute the beef with chicken or turkey for a lighter version. Additionally, you can use any vegetables you have on hand, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to customize the soup to your liking.

Serving and Pairings

Beef vegetable soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side salad. Serve with a dollop of sour cream or fresh herbs for added flavor.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat until heated through. This soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Cooking Mistakes

Not browning the beef properly can lead to less flavor.
Overcooking vegetables can result in mushiness.
Forgetting to season the broth can make the soup bland.
Using low-quality beef can affect the overall taste.
Not letting the soup simmer long enough can prevent flavors from developing.

Helpful Tips

Use a mix of fresh and dried herbs for a more complex flavor.
Adjust the thickness by adding more broth or water if needed.
Consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce for extra depth.
Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme before serving.

FAQs

Can I make beef vegetable soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables before adding everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.

What vegetables can I add to the soup?

You can add a variety of vegetables such as corn, peas, or potatoes. Just be mindful of cooking times, as some vegetables may need longer to become tender.

Can I use leftover beef for this soup?

Absolutely! Leftover roast beef or any cooked beef can be used. Just add it towards the end of cooking to heat through.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free beef broth and avoid any added thickeners that contain gluten.

How can I make this soup spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the soup while it cooks for an extra kick. Adjust the amount to suit your taste preference.

Conclusion

Beef vegetable soup is a comforting dish that brings warmth and nourishment to any meal. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Enjoy this delicious soup that not only satisfies hunger but also warms the soul!