Beef and Vegetable Soup Recipe

Introduction

Beef and Vegetable Soup is a timeless comfort food that combines tender beef with a hearty mix of vegetables in a savory broth. This soup is the epitome of a satisfying and nutritious meal, perfect for those chilly nights when you crave something warm, filling, and full of flavor. The rich and savory beef, along with the vibrant vegetables, creates a symphony of tastes and textures that will leave you coming back for more.

Whether you’re serving it as a main dish for a family dinner or as a comforting starter to a larger meal, Beef and Vegetable Soup never disappoints. Packed with essential nutrients from the beef and vegetables, this soup is a great way to enjoy a wholesome, balanced meal that is both satisfying and nourishing. The beauty of this soup is in its versatility—feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables or tweak the seasonings to your liking.

Why You’ll Love Beef and Vegetable Soup

• Hearty and Filling: This soup is packed with tender chunks of beef and a variety of vegetables, making it the perfect meal for when you’re hungry. It’s a wholesome, one-pot dish that provides everything you need for a satisfying dinner.
• Nutritious and Balanced: The combination of beef, vegetables, and broth offers a balanced meal with protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a healthy yet filling dish.
• Simple and Easy to Make: Despite its depth of flavor, this soup is easy to make and requires only basic ingredients. With minimal preparation and cooking time, it’s a perfect option for a weeknight meal or meal prep.
• Customizable: You can adjust the vegetables, seasonings, and even the cut of beef based on your preferences. The recipe is flexible, so you can make it your own.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Beef and Vegetable Soup can be made in large batches and stored in the refrigerator or freezer for easy, delicious meals throughout the week.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 6 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 250-300 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250-300 kcal
• Fat: 10-12g
• Carbohydrates: 20-25g
• Protein: 25-30g
• Fiber: 4-5g
• Sugar: 6-7g

Ingredients

For the Beef and Vegetable Soup:

• 1 lb (450g) beef stew meat or chuck roast, cut into small cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for browning the beef)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 medium carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 medium potatoes, diced
• 1 cup green beans, chopped
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 6 cups beef broth (low-sodium for a healthier option)
• 2 cups water
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, for added depth)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef

Start by cutting the beef stew meat or chuck roast into bite-sized cubes. If you want a leaner cut of meat, you can choose sirloin or round. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes to the pot in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd them, which helps the beef brown evenly.

Brown the beef for about 4-5 minutes on all sides until the meat is nicely caramelized. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside. This step helps develop a deep, savory flavor that will infuse the broth later.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Heat the oil over medium heat, and then add the chopped onion. Sauté the onion for 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

This combination of onion and garlic creates the base of the soup and adds a rich aroma to the dish. If desired, you can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes at this stage for a subtle kick of heat.

3. Add the Broth and Seasonings

Once the onions and garlic have softened, add the beef broth and water to the pot, stirring to combine. Stir in the tomato paste, which adds a rich, deep flavor to the broth. Season with dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. The thyme and oregano will infuse the soup with an aromatic, earthy flavor, while the salt and pepper enhance the savory notes.

If you want a little more depth to the broth, you can add a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce at this stage, which will add a savory umami boost.

4. Simmer the Soup

Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Add the bay leaf and return the browned beef to the pot. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 45 minutes to an hour, stirring occasionally. This allows the beef to become tender and allows the flavors to meld together.

If the soup begins to reduce too much during the simmering process, you can add a little more water or broth to maintain the right consistency. The long simmering time helps break down the beef, making it tender and juicy, while the broth becomes rich and flavorful.

5. Add the Vegetables

After the beef has cooked and become tender, it’s time to add the vegetables. Start with the carrots, celery, and potatoes, as they take the longest to cook. Stir them into the soup and continue to simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are just tender.

Next, add the green beans, corn, and zucchini to the soup. Stir well and continue to simmer for another 10-15 minutes until the vegetables are cooked through and tender but still hold their shape. The corn adds a touch of sweetness, while the zucchini and green beans contribute vibrant color and texture to the soup.

6. Taste and Adjust Seasonings

Once the vegetables are cooked, taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or dried herbs if you prefer a more intense flavor. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for a bit of brightness or a drizzle of extra Worcestershire sauce if you like a deeper umami flavor.

7. Serve and Garnish

Once everything is cooked and the soup is seasoned to your liking, ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve with a slice of crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Beef and Vegetable Soup

• Use a Good Cut of Beef: For the best flavor and texture, choose a cut of beef that benefits from slow cooking, like stew meat, chuck roast, or round. These cuts break down during cooking, becoming tender and flavorful.
• Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: While the beef benefits from a long simmer, vegetables like zucchini, corn, and green beans cook faster. Add them later in the cooking process to ensure they retain their texture and flavor.
• Use Homemade Broth: If possible, use homemade beef broth or stock for a richer, more complex flavor. If you’re using store-bought broth, opt for low-sodium versions to control the salt content in the soup.
• Add Greens: For an added nutritional boost, you can throw in some leafy greens like spinach, kale, or Swiss chard during the last few minutes of cooking. They will wilt into the soup and add extra vitamins and minerals.
• Make It Spicy: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes, chopped fresh chilies, or a dash of hot sauce to the soup for a spicy kick.

Variations of Beef and Vegetable Soup

• Beef and Vegetable Soup with Beans: Add a can of drained and rinsed beans, such as kidney beans, cannellini beans, or chickpeas, to the soup for additional protein and fiber. Beans also make the soup more filling.
• Beef and Vegetable Soup with Pasta: For a heartier soup, add some pasta, like elbow macaroni or small shells, in the last 10-15 minutes of cooking. This will make the soup more filling and give it a wonderful texture.
• Beef and Vegetable Soup with Barley: Add some barley to the soup for a chewy, nutty texture. Barley is a great whole grain that complements the tender beef and vegetables while also adding some additional fiber.
• Beef and Vegetable Soup with Sweet Potatoes: Swap out regular potatoes for sweet potatoes to add a natural sweetness and additional nutrients. Sweet potatoes are rich in fiber and vitamins, making this variation a healthier option.

Storage and Shelf Life

Beef and Vegetable Soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.

If you want to store the soup for a longer period, it can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Beef and Vegetable Soup

• Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf of bread is the perfect side for soaking up the flavorful broth.
• Salad: Pair the soup with a light, fresh salad. A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: For a more indulgent pairing, serve the soup with a classic grilled cheese sandwich. The combination of hot soup and melty cheese is a crowd-pleaser.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve the soup with a side of roasted vegetables for a wholesome, veggie-filled meal.

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Conclusion

Beef and Vegetable Soup is the ultimate comfort food—rich, hearty, and bursting with flavor. This soup is a delicious way to enjoy a balanced meal that is both satisfying and nourishing. With tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and a savory broth, it’s a dish that’s sure to please the whole family.

The beauty of Beef and Vegetable Soup lies in its simplicity and versatility. You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your personal tastes and dietary preferences, making it a go-to option for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a comforting solo meal, this soup is sure to deliver.

So grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to a bowl of this hearty and delicious soup today. Your taste buds—and your belly—will thank you!