Description

There's something deeply comforting about a bowl of hearty Ground Beef Vegetable Soup. This rustic dish, originating from homes across many cultures, celebrates the joy of cooking with wholesome ingredients. Whether it's a chilly evening or you're just looking for something nutritious and delightful to warm the soul, this soup does not disappoint.

Imagine a bubbling pot on the stove, filling your kitchen with the tantalizing aromas of ground beef mingling with fresh vegetables. Each spoonful brings a burst of flavors—tender potatoes, crunchy celery, vibrant corn, and more, all enveloped in a rich, savory broth. Not only is this soup satisfying and delicious, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends.

This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, bringing back memories of family gatherings and cozy dinners. Plus, it's highly customizable, allowing you to explore your tastes and preferences, ensuring that you’ll always have a special version that fits your palate. Let's dive into creating this heartwarming dish!

Ingredients

• For this delightful Ground Beef Vegetable Soup, gather the following ingredients to ensure every bite is packed with goodness:
• Ground Beef Base:
• Two kilos of ground beef
• Vegetables:
• A quarter of an onion, peeled and finely chopped
• Four ribs of celery, diced into bite-sized pieces
• Four potatoes, peeled and cut into one-inch chunks
• Canned Goods:
• One can (15.25 oz) whole kernel corn, washed and drained
• One can (15 oz) green beans, washed and drained
• One can (15 oz) peas, undrained
• One can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• One can (14.5 oz) crushed whole tomatoes
• Seasonings:
• Crushed powdered black pepper, to taste
• One bay leaf (more can be added if desired)
• A quarter teaspoon of dried thyme
• Water, about half a cup, or as needed for consistency

Preparation Method

Start by warming your kitchen with the inviting scents of a home-cooked meal. First, take a large stockpot and add the crumbled ground beef. Set your stove to medium-high heat, allowing the meat to cook for about 7 to 10 minutes. As the beef simmers, use a wooden spoon to stir occasionally, breaking any large chunks. Keep an eye on it until it turns a lovely brown, devoid of any pink. This is the crucial step to ensuring your beef is well-cooked and flavorful.

Once the ground beef is just right, it’s essential to address the excess fat. Carefully drain the grease from the pot; you want your soup to be hearty, not oily! Now, it's time to introduce those vibrant vegetables. Add the chopped onion, diced celery, and, even though the original recipe doesn't mention them, I highly recommend slicing in a couple of carrots for sweetness and color. Stir the mixture and allow it to cook for another 5 minutes, or until the vegetables soften up. They should yield a little tenderness but still maintain their shape, adding character to our soup.

Now comes the fun part—layering in the flavors! Gradually add the whole kernel corn, green beans, and those enticing chunks of potato. Pour in the tomato sauce and the undrained peas. The peas add a slightly sweet note to the dish that complements the savory elements beautifully.

Next, it’s time to sprinkle in the crushed black pepper, bay leaf, and thyme. Take a moment to inhale the delightful aroma as you mix everything together. If your mixture looks a bit thick, don’t worry; this is where we add water. Start by pouring in half a cup, then assess the consistency. If you prefer a soupier texture, sneak in another quarter cup at a time until it reaches your desired level of liquidity.

With everything in your pot, give it a gentle stir and allow it to come to a soft simmer. Cover the pot with a lid, but keep it slightly ajar to let the steam escape. This is crucial for cooking all the ingredients evenly without boiling over. Let it simmer for approximately one hour, stirring occasionally to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom. The potatoes should become fork-tender, and all the delightful flavors will mingle and deepen, creating a symphony of tastes in this nourishing bowl of soup.

As the hour approaches, you might want to check for seasoning. Taste a small spoonful, and add more black pepper or a pinch of salt if you feel it needs it. Remember to fish out that bay leaf before serving, as it’s for flavor infusion and not meant to be eaten!

Tips and Conclusion

To elevate your Ground Beef Vegetable Soup experience, consider some delightful variations! Want a bit of spice? Add a diced jalapeño or sprinkle in some chili flakes while sautéing the onions. For a richer flavor profile, you can add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce for umami depth.

If you’d like to make a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with textured vegetable protein (TVP) or lentils, and amp up the veggie amount! You can also throw in your favorite herbs or even some leafy greens like spinach or kale right at the end.

Looking to make the soup a complete meal? Serve it with warm, crusty bread or a side salad for a perfect pairing. Or, if you have leftover rice or pasta, consider adding it to the pot to bulk it up even further.
The joy of preparing Ground Beef Vegetable Soup lies not only in making a deliciously nourishing meal but also in the process of creating something from scratch that comforts the heart and warms the soul. As you enjoy each spoonful, the rich flavors and textures bring a sense of home and nostalgia that is truly special.

After savoring your homemade soup, don't stop there! Explore our other hearty recipes that offer similar warmth, like a classic Chicken Noodle Soup or a soulful Minestrone. We invite you to share this recipe with friends and family so they can indulge in this delicious experience too!

The world of cooking is vast, and there's always something new to discover. Browse around, try out different ingredients, and find joy in the creativity that comes with cooking. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with delightful aromas and joyful flavors!