Description

Imagine the comforting aroma of rich beef broth simmering gently on your stove, melding beautifully with vibrant vegetables and a bouquet of herbs. This Vegetable Beef Soup is not just a meal but an experience, evoking memories of family gatherings and warmth on those chilly evenings. Originating from hearty kitchens worldwide, this dish brings together robust flavors and nutrition, making it a perfect choice for a family dinner or a cozy night in.

What makes this soup truly special is its versatility; you can customize it with your favorite vegetables or seasonings. Whether you’re an amateur cook just starting or a seasoned chef in search of a wholesome dish, this recipe is incredibly forgiving. This soup not only nourishes the body but also warms the soul—a timeless classic that you’ll find yourself returning to time and time again.

Ingredients

• For the Soup:
• 1 1/2 pounds of beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 2 1/2 tablespoons of olive oil, divided
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 large onion, or 1 3/4 cups of chopped yellow onion
• 3 medium-sized carrots, peeled and diced (about 3/4 cup)
• 1/3 cup of chopped celery
• 4 cloves garlic, minced (approximately 1 1/2 tablespoons)
• 8 cups of low-sodium chicken or beef stock
• 2 cans of chopped tomatoes (14 oz. each)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 pound of red or yellow potatoes, peeled and cubed to 3/4-inch thickness
• 1 1/2 cups of chopped green beans (5 oz.), ends trimmed
• 1/2 cup of frozen corn
• 1 cup of frozen peas, thawed
• 1/3 cup of fresh parsley, chopped
• Optional Ingredients for Customizing:
• You can add extra vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or even leafy greens like spinach or kale for an additional boost of nutrients. If you prefer a spicy kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. For a creamier version, stir in a couple of tablespoons of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving.

Preparation Method

Begin by prepping your work area. Gather all your ingredients, as having everything at hand makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. Start by patting the beef stew meat dry with paper towels. This step is crucial, as removing excess moisture helps achieve a lovely, browned crust when cooking.

In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is gleaming, add half of the beef cubes, ensuring they don’t crowd the pan. This will help in browning the meat properly. Allow the beef to brown undisturbed for about 4 minutes, then flip the pieces to brown the other side. Once browned, transfer the beef to a plate and continue with the remaining meat, adding another 1/2 tablespoon of oil as needed.

After the beef is browned, reduce the heat to medium and add the final tablespoon of olive oil to the pan. Toss in the chopped onions, carrots, and celery, stirring occasionally for about 3 minutes until they begin to soften and release their sweet aromas. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute. This layering of flavors is a hallmark of good soup.

Season your sautéed vegetables with a sprinkle of salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavors. Now, it’s time to build the soup. Pour in the stock, followed by the two cans of chopped tomatoes along with their juices. Add back the sautéed beef, then stir in the dried basil, oregano, and thyme.

Bring the pot to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, covering the pot with a lid. Allow the soup to simmer for 30 minutes, giving it a gentle stir now and then. This simmering process allows all the flavors to meld beautifully together.

After 30 minutes, it’s time to add the potatoes. These should be peeled and cut into 3/4-inch cubes for even cooking. Mix them into the pot, cover, and simmer for another 20 minutes. If you prefer your potatoes very soft, feel free to toss in the chopped green beans at this point as well.

Now, check the potatoes for doneness; a fork should easily pierce them. If you are satisfied with their texture, add the green beans, corn, and thawed peas to the soup. Stir everything gently to incorporate. Let the soup simmer for an additional 15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the beef is melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

As the soup nears completion, finely chop the fresh parsley and add it to the pot. This will not only enhance the flavor but also add a burst of freshness that brightens the entire dish. Allow the soup to heat for another 5 minutes to warm the parsley through.

Once your Vegetable Beef Soup is complete, it’s time to serve. Ladle generous portions into bowls and consider garnishing with a sprinkle of additional parsley or even some freshly grated cheese for an extra touch. The deep, homey aroma wafting from your kitchen will surely entice everyone at the table.

Tips and Conclusion

For an effortlessly balanced meal, serve your Vegetable Beef Soup with crusty bread on the side. A fresh garden salad or a vibrant coleslaw can also complement the richness of the soup beautifully. If you have leftovers (which is unlikely, given how delicious this soup is!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors will continue to develop, making the leftovers even more delightful. For longer storage, freeze the soup in portion-sized containers for a quick and hearty meal anytime in the future.
Preparing this Vegetable Beef Soup is not just about mixing ingredients; it’s about creating a comforting dish that nourishes both the body and soul. From the first chop of vegetables to the final spoonful savored, every step is filled with care and joy. Once you experience the soothing warmth and rich flavors of this soup, you’ll want to add it to your regular rotation.

Don’t stop here! Explore more delicious soup recipes or hearty main dishes that can pair wonderfully with this masterpiece. We invite you to share your experience, variations, and even your own tips with others who might be looking to create their version of this soup. Keep browsing for more culinary adventures—you never know what delightful dish you’ll discover next!