Hearty and Delicious Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe

Introduction

Welcome to Recipes in Style! I’m Sophie Grace, the culinary mind behind this blog, where cooking is more than just preparing food it’s an art, a passion, and a way to bring people together. Today, I’m thrilled to introduce a recipe that embodies comfort and nourishment: vegetable beef soup. This delightful soup is a perfect blend of savory beef, wholesome vegetables, and aromatic herbs, making it a standout dish for any occasion.

Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or just beginning your culinary journey, this vegetable beef soup is a wonderful way to explore delicious flavors and hone your cooking skills. Join me as we dive into the world of hearty soups and learn how to create a meal that’s not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare. So, grab your apron, and let’s make magic in the kitchen!

What Makes This Recipe Special

Key Benefits

This vegetable beef soup is packed with essential nutrients, making it a hearty and healthy choice for lunch or dinner. It’s a versatile recipe that can be customized to suit various dietary needs and preferences. Additionally, it’s a great way to use up leftover vegetables and minimize food waste.

Unique Features

What sets this recipe apart is its balance of rich, savory flavors and fresh, vibrant ingredients. The slow-simmered beef imparts a deep flavor, while the vegetables add texture and freshness. Moreover, this soup is perfect for meal prep, as it tastes even better the next day, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully over time.

Ingredients for Vegetable Beef Soup

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 3 celery stalks, sliced
• 3 potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 6 cups beef broth
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Optional Add-ins

• 1 cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen
• 1 cup peas, fresh or frozen
• 1/2 cup barley or pasta for added texture
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika for a smoky flavor
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce for depth

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Preparation Steps

1. Begin by preparing your vegetables: chop the onion, mince the garlic, slice the carrots and celery, and dice the potatoes.
2. Trim and cut the green beans into 1-inch pieces. If using optional add-ins, prepare those as well.
3. Pat the beef cubes dry with a paper towel and season them with salt and pepper.

Cooking Process

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and sear until browned on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add the onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent.
3. Add the carrots, celery, and potatoes to the pot, cooking for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
4. Return the beef to the pot along with the green beans, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Stir in the thyme and bay leaf.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
6. If using, add the optional add-ins during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
7. Remove the bay leaf, taste, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
8. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Results

Pro Chef Tips

• For even deeper flavor, sear the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot, ensuring a good browning on all sides.
• Consider using homemade beef broth for a richer taste, or enhance store-bought broth with a splash of red wine.
• Let the soup rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to meld together.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the vegetables can lead to a mushy texture. Add delicate vegetables like peas and greens towards the end of cooking.
• Skipping the searing step can result in less flavorful beef. Take the time to properly brown the meat.

Nutritional Information and Health Benefits

Calories and Macros

This vegetable beef soup is not only satisfying but also nutritious. A typical serving (about 2 cups) contains approximately 250-300 calories, with balanced macros of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. It’s a filling option that aligns well with a balanced diet.

Health Benefits

Rich in vitamins and minerals, this soup supports overall health and wellness. The beef provides essential protein and iron, while the variety of vegetables contributes fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, and antioxidants. This combination supports immune function, promotes satiety, and aids in maintaining energy levels.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

Dietary Modifications

For a gluten-free version, ensure all ingredients, including broth, are certified gluten-free. To make this soup vegetarian, simply omit the beef and use vegetable broth. Add hearty mushrooms or lentils to maintain the soup’s satisfying quality.

Flavor Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for some heat.
• Herbaceous Twist: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or basil for a unique aroma.
• Mediterranean Flair: Include olives and a sprinkle of feta cheese for Mediterranean-inspired flavors.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

How to Store

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freeze: Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Serving Ideas

• Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
• Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a dollop of sour cream for added richness.
• Pair with a light red wine like Pinot Noir to complement the savory flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

And there you have it a delicious, hearty vegetable beef soup that warms the soul and delights the taste buds. This recipe is perfect for those chilly days when you crave comfort and nourishment. Whether you’re enjoying it with family or sharing it with friends, this soup is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. I hope this recipe inspires you to explore the joys of cooking and to create meals that are both stylish and satisfying. Thank you for joining me on this culinary journey at Recipes in Style!

Bon Appétit, Sophie Grace, Your Chef 🍳✨

Hearty and Delicious Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe

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• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

A hearty and nourishing vegetable beef soup filled with savory beef, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs. Perfect for meal prep and cozy dinners.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 3 celery stalks, sliced
• 3 potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 6 cups beef broth
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Optional: 1 cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen
• Optional: 1 cup peas, fresh or frozen
• Optional: 1/2 cup barley or pasta
• Optional: 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Optional: 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

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Instructions

1. Chop the onion, mince the garlic, slice the carrots and celery, and dice the potatoes.
2. Trim and cut the green beans into 1-inch pieces. Prepare any optional add-ins if using.
3. Pat the beef dry and season with salt and pepper.
4. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear beef until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
5. In the same pot, sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
6. Add carrots, celery, and potatoes; cook for 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
7. Return beef to the pot. Add green beans, diced tomatoes, beef broth, thyme, and bay leaf.
8. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours until beef is tender and vegetables are cooked.
9. Add optional ingredients during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
10. Remove bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
11. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

For richer flavor, sear beef in batches and use homemade broth or add a splash of red wine. Avoid overcooking vegetables. Let the soup rest before serving for best taste.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 90 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 cups
• Calories: 275
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: vegetable beef soup, hearty soup, beef stew, comfort food, healthy soup