ADVERTISEMENT
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Meat
In a large soup pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground meat (beef, turkey, chicken, or your choice) and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat and set the meat aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and chopped celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften and become fragrant.
3. Add the Broth and Tomatoes
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and add the diced tomatoes (with their juices). Stir to combine. Next, add the diced potatoes, white beans, and the dried thyme, oregano, and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Simmer the Soup
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 20-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together. If the soup thickens too much, you can add a bit more broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.
5. Add Greens and Adjust Seasoning
If using spinach or kale, stir it in during the last 5 minutes of cooking, allowing it to wilt down. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
6. Serve and Garnish
Remove the soup from heat and discard the bay leaf. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or basil, if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers on the side for a complete meal.
Why You’ll Love This Soup
This soup is an all-around winner for several reasons:
- Comforting: The combination of tender vegetables, savory meat, and flavorful broth is like a warm hug in a bowl.
- Nutritious: Packed with fiber from the beans and veggies, protein from the meat, and vitamins from the greens, this soup is as healthy as it is tasty.
- Customizable: Add extra ingredients like corn, zucchini, or bell peppers for a different twist, or even make it a vegetarian soup by skipping the meat and adding more beans or lentils.
- Family-Friendly: With its mild and familiar flavors, even picky eaters will love this hearty soup.
Final Thoughts
There’s something special about a hearty, comforting soup that becomes a family favorite, and this recipe does just that. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, it’s a meal that brings everyone together at the table. With its balanced flavors, nutrient-packed ingredients, and satisfying texture, it’s a recipe you’ll return to time and time again. Try it tonight, and you might just find yourself making it a weekly staple in your home. Enjoy!
ADVERTISEMENT
