Vegetarian Beef Soup

For Garnish (optional):

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Crusty bread or crackers

How to Make Vegetarian Beef Soup

Making this Vegetarian Beef Soup is a breeze, and the results are a warm, flavorful meal that’s perfect for any day of the week.

1. Prepare the Vegetables

Start by prepping all the vegetables. Peel and dice the carrots, potatoes, and celery, and chop the onion and garlic. You can also prepare the zucchini and green beans if you’re using them.

2. Sauté the Base

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.

3. Add the Vegetables and Seasonings

Add the carrots, celery, potatoes, and any other vegetables you are using, such as zucchini and green beans. Stir to combine, allowing the vegetables to cook for a few minutes.

Add the tomato paste, smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, cumin (if using), and bay leaves to the pot. Stir the mixture to coat the vegetables in the spices, letting them cook for 1-2 minutes to bring out the flavors.

4. Add the Liquid and Simmer

Pour in the vegetable broth and the diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir everything together and bring the soup to a simmer.

Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup cook for 20-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.

5. Add the Vegetarian Beef Substitute

Once the vegetables are tender, add the plant-based beef crumbles (or lentils, tempeh, or chickpeas) to the soup. If you’re using lentils, make sure they are pre-cooked or add dried lentils in the early stages of cooking to allow them to soften.

Add soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for depth of flavor, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine and the plant-based protein to heat through.

6. Finish and Serve

Once everything is cooked and the soup is hot, remove the bay leaves and discard them. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you prefer a thicker soup, use a potato masher to lightly mash some of the vegetables to create a creamier texture.

Serve the soup hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley, and accompanied by crusty bread or crackers on the side.

Tips for the Best Vegetarian Beef Soup

• Customize the Protein: You can substitute the plant-based beef crumbles with lentils, tempeh, or chickpeas for a different twist. Cooked green lentils work especially well for a hearty, filling texture.
• Flavor Boosters: For an extra umami punch, try adding a splash of miso paste, liquid smoke, or vegetarian bouillon cubes to the soup.
• More Veggies: Add extra veggies like spinach, kale, or peas to make the soup even heartier and more nutritious.
• Spicy Kick: If you like your soup with a little heat, toss in a jalapeño or some cayenne pepper to spice things up.
• Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have time to meld together. You can also make a large batch and freeze it for future meals.

Why Vegetarian Beef Soup is a Game-Changer

Vegetarian Beef Soup is the ultimate comforting, hearty, and nutritious meal without the need for meat. By using plant-based substitutes and loads of fresh vegetables, this soup provides all the richness and satisfaction of a traditional beef-based soup, but with an ethical, plant-powered twist. It’s perfect for vegetarians, vegans, or anyone looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet without sacrificing flavor or texture.

This soup is a great way to warm up on a cold day, and it’s so versatile that you can adjust it to suit your preferences. Whether you serve it for lunch, dinner, or as part of a meal prep, Vegetarian Beef Soup is sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Enjoy it with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or your favorite side, and you’ve got a meal that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.