Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

This Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is hearty, comforting, and packed with nutritious vegetables and tender beef. Perfect for chilly days, this one-pot meal brings back memories of cozy dinners at home, filling your kitchen with the savory aromas of beef, fresh herbs, and veggies.

Why You’ll Love This Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

• Simple Ingredients: Made with wholesome, easy-to-find ingredients.
• Nourishing and Hearty: Packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Flavors deepen over time, making it ideal for meal prep.

Ingredients for Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

• 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into small cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth (low-sodium)
• 2 cups water
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 3 large carrots, sliced
• 3 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup frozen or fresh corn kernels
• 1/2 cup frozen or fresh peas
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot or Dutch oven: For simmering the soup.
• Wooden spoon: To stir and keep ingredients evenly cooked.
• Ladle: For easy serving.

How to Make Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

Step 1: Brown the Beef

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef cubes, seasoning with a little salt and pepper. Brown all sides for 5-7 minutes, then remove beef and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same pot, add diced onions and cook until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

1. Return beef to the pot. Add beef broth, water, and canned tomatoes (with juices). Stir to combine.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
3. Add carrots, celery, potatoes, green beans, bay leaf, thyme, and basil. Simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until beef is tender and vegetables are cooked through.

Step 4: Add Final Ingredients

1. Stir in corn and peas during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
2. Remove bay leaf, taste, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
2. Serve with crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with warm crusty bread or buttery rolls to soak up the rich broth.
• For a lighter side, pair with a simple green salad.

Tips for the Best Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

• Cut Vegetables Uniformly: This ensures even cooking.
• Adjust Liquid Levels: For a thicker soup, reduce the water slightly, or add more for a lighter broth.
• Let it Simmer: For deeper flavors, let the soup cook low and slow for a longer time.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic on the stove first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Q2: Can I add other vegetables?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add zucchini, bell peppers, or cabbage for extra flavor and nutrition.

Q3: Can I use ground beef instead of stew meat?
A: Yes, brown the ground beef and drain any excess fat before continuing with the recipe.

This Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is sure to become a comforting favorite, bringing warmth and flavor to every spoonful. Give it a try, and enjoy the deliciously nostalgic taste!

Enjoy every cozy bite!