Beef vegetable soup is the perfect comfort food, especially on cold days. With tender beef and a mix of hearty vegetables, it’s a nutritious and satisfying meal. This easy recipe brings together savory flavors in a warm, flavorful broth. It’s a great way to enjoy a cozy, homemade meal that’s full of protein and vitamins.
Key Benefits of beef vegetable soup
Beef vegetable soup isn’t just a meal—it’s a comforting experience that offers both flavor and nourishment. Here’s why this recipe should be a staple in your kitchen:
- Hearty and Filling: The combination of tender beef chunks and a variety of vegetables makes this soup incredibly filling. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or even meal prepping for the busy weeks ahead.
- Packed with Nutrients: With a mix of vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and celery, this soup is full of vitamins and fiber. It’s a great way to get a variety of nutrients in one bowl, making it a well-rounded, healthy option.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is beginner-friendly! You don’t need to be a professional chef to make a delicious pot of beef vegetable soup. Simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients make this a perfect recipe for anyone.
- Customizable: Want to add your favorite vegetables? Or maybe you like a bit of spice? This soup is versatile, so you can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste and dietary preferences. You can even swap out the beef for other proteins like chicken or turkey!
- Comforting and Satisfying: There’s something about a bowl of hot soup that feels like a hug. Whether you’re battling the cold weather or need a filling meal after a long day, this soup will warm you up inside and out.
This beef vegetable soup isn’t just delicious; it’s a wholesome, hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients for beef vegetable soup
- Beef chunks (stew meat) – 1 lb
- Carrots – 2 medium, sliced
- Celery – 2 stalks, chopped
- Potatoes – 2 medium, diced
- Onion – 1 large, chopped
- Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
- Tomatoes (diced or whole) – 1 can (14.5 oz) or 2 fresh tomatoes, chopped
- Beef broth or stock – 4 cups
- Green peas (optional) – 1 cup
- Fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, rosemary) – 1-2 sprigs of each, or 1 tsp dried
- Salt – to taste
- Pepper – to taste
- Olive oil or butter – 2 tbsp
Instructions
Making this beef vegetable soup is simple, and the result is a comforting, flavorful meal. Follow these easy steps to bring everything together:
Sear the Beef: Start by heating 2 tbsp of olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef chunks and cook until browned on all sides (about 5-7 minutes). This step locks in the flavor and gives your soup a rich base. Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside.
Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, until softened and fragrant. Add the carrots, celery, and potatoes and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Build the Broth: Return the seared beef to the pot. Add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, and fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, rosemary). Stir everything together, making sure the beef and vegetables are evenly distributed.
Simmer the Soup: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for 45-60 minutes or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through. Stir occasionally and check the seasoning, adjusting with salt and pepper to taste.
Add Peas (Optional): If you’re adding green peas, stir them in during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a burst of color and sweetness.
Serve and Enjoy: Once everything is cooked to perfection, ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy with a side of crusty bread for dipping or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Pro Tips for beef vegetable soup
To make your beef vegetable soup even more delicious and ensure it turns out perfect every time, here are some expert tips:
Brown the Beef Well: Don’t rush the searing process. Browning the beef properly adds depth and richness to the soup’s flavor. This caramelization is key to achieving that savory, satisfying taste.
Cut Vegetables Evenly: For consistent cooking, make sure your vegetables are cut into similar-sized pieces. This way, all the ingredients cook at the same rate, giving you perfectly tender bites in every spoonful.
Layer the Flavors: When you sauté the onions and garlic first, you create a flavorful base. This helps to enhance the broth and ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
Simmer Slowly: Low and slow is the way to go. Simmering the soup for an extended period allows the flavors to meld together and makes the beef incredibly tender. If you can, let the soup sit for an hour or two after cooking—it only gets better!
Adjust the Seasoning: Taste as you go and adjust with salt and pepper. The flavors will evolve during cooking, so don’t be afraid to tweak it to your liking right before serving.
Make it a Meal: Pair your soup with a slice of crusty bread for dipping or a simple side salad to round out the meal. You can also serve it over rice or with some noodles for a heartier option.
Freeze Leftovers: This soup freezes beautifully! Store any leftovers in an airtight container, and you’ll have a ready-to-go meal for busy days. Just reheat and enjoy!
By following these tips, you’ll elevate your beef vegetable soup, making it an even more satisfying and flavorful dish. Happy cooking!
Variations
This beef vegetable soup is incredibly versatile and can be customized to fit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few variations to try:
Add More Vegetables: Feel free to get creative with the vegetables! Try adding green beans, corn, or zucchini for extra flavor and texture. The more variety you add, the more vibrant and colorful your soup will be.
Use Ground Beef: If you prefer a different texture, you can swap the beef chunks for ground beef. It will cook faster and create a different kind of base for the soup. Just be sure to brown it well before adding the broth.
Spicy Beef Vegetable Soup: For a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño. This adds a delightful warmth to the soup without overpowering the other flavors.
Make it Gluten-Free: This soup is naturally gluten-free, but if you want to add noodles, opt for gluten-free pasta or rice noodles. Both options will make it just as satisfying without compromising on taste.
Serving Suggestions for Beef Vegetable Soup
This beef vegetable soup is hearty and delicious on its own, but you can elevate the experience with a few simple serving ideas. Here are some tasty suggestions to make the meal even more enjoyable:
Pair with Crusty Bread: A warm bowl of beef vegetable soup is the perfect match for a slice of crusty bread or a baguette. The bread is great for dipping and soaking up all the flavorful broth.
Serve with a Side Salad: A crisp, fresh salad can add a nice contrast to the richness of the soup. Try a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or a Caesar salad for a more indulgent option.
Top with Fresh Herbs: After serving, garnish your soup with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro. This adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness that enhances the flavors of the soup.
Add a Dollop of Sour Cream: For a creamy finish, swirl a little sour cream or Greek yogurt into your soup. It adds a slight tang and balances the hearty flavors of the beef and vegetables.
These simple serving suggestions will turn your beef vegetable soup into a satisfying and well-rounded meal that everyone will enjoy!
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FAQs about beef vegetable soup
What vegetables go well with beef?
When it comes to beef, the possibilities are endless! Common vegetables that pair perfectly with beef include carrots, potatoes, celery, onions, tomatoes, and green beans. These vegetables complement the rich flavor of beef and provide a satisfying texture in your soup.
How to get more beef flavor in soup?
To boost the beef flavor in your soup, start by browning the beef well before adding it to the broth. This caramelization process enhances the flavor. You can also add beef broth instead of water and incorporate Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce for an added depth of umami. Simmering the soup for a long time helps the beef’s richness meld into the broth, making every spoonful full of flavor.
What spices go with beef?
Beef pairs wonderfully with a variety of spices and herbs. Some popular choices include garlic, rosemary, thyme, bay leaves, black pepper, and paprika. If you want a bit of heat, try adding cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. These spices will bring out the savory richness of the beef and add a lovely warmth to your soup.
Is beef with mixed vegetables healthy?
Yes, beef with mixed vegetables can be a healthy and nutritious meal. It provides a good source of protein from the beef, as well as essential vitamins and fiber from the vegetables. For an even healthier version, choose lean cuts of beef, such as sirloin or chuck, and load up on a variety of colorful vegetables. Using low-sodium broth and limiting added fats will keep the soup light while still packing in plenty of flavor.