Beef Vegetable Soup

How to Make Beef Vegetable Soup

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by browning the beef stew meat. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Brown the beef on all sides until it’s nicely seared, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add a little more olive oil if necessary. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This will infuse the base of the soup with rich flavors.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables

Once the onions and garlic are softened, add the carrots, celery, and potatoes to the pot. Stir the vegetables for a couple of minutes to combine with the onions and garlic. Then, add the green beans and peas to the mix, continuing to stir everything together.

Step 4: Add the Beef and Broth

Return the browned beef to the pot. Then, pour in the beef broth (or stock) and bring the soup to a boil. Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), and toss in the dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and the bay leaf. Stir everything together to combine.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup

Once the soup reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour. This will give the beef time to tenderize and allow the flavors of the vegetables and broth to meld together. You can simmer the soup longer if you like a richer flavor or if you prefer the vegetables to be extra soft. Stir occasionally, and check the seasoning toward the end of cooking, adding more salt or pepper if necessary.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Once the soup is ready, remove the bay leaf and discard it. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil if desired. Serve the soup with crusty bread or crackers on the side for a complete meal.

Tips for the Best Beef Vegetable Soup

• Choose the Right Beef: For a tender and flavorful soup, use beef stew meat or chuck roast that’s been cubed. These cuts of beef become melt-in-your-mouth tender when simmered in a broth-based soup.
• Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to swap out any of the vegetables in the recipe based on what you have on hand or your preferences. You can add zucchini, corn, parsnips, or spinach to the mix for added flavor and nutrition.
• Make It Ahead: This soup actually tastes even better the next day once the flavors have had time to meld. Make it a day ahead, refrigerate, and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
• Thicken the Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash a portion of the potatoes in the soup with a potato masher or blend a small amount of the soup in a blender and return it to the pot.
• Slow Cooker Option: If you prefer to make this in a slow cooker, you can brown the beef first, then add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.

Why Beef Vegetable Soup is So Loved

Beef Vegetable Soup is a staple in many households because it’s both comforting and nourishing. The combination of tender beef, fresh vegetables, and rich broth makes it the ultimate comfort food, especially on a cold day or when you’re feeling under the weather. It’s also a great way to incorporate a variety of vegetables into your diet while still enjoying a hearty, meaty meal.

Not only is this soup filling and satisfying, but it’s also a great way to use up any leftover vegetables or beef you have in the fridge. It’s versatile, budget-friendly, and can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.

Final Thoughts

Beef Vegetable Soup is the perfect recipe for anyone looking for a hearty, healthy, and delicious meal. It’s easy to prepare, requires simple ingredients, and is packed with flavor that will leave you feeling satisfied. Whether you’re making it for a cozy weeknight dinner or serving it up at a family gathering, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

The combination of tender beef, nutritious vegetables, and savory broth makes this soup a go-to comfort food that’s as nourishing as it is flavorful. So grab a pot, gather your ingredients, and enjoy a bowl of this hearty soup today!