Description
Nothing beats a warm bowl of homemade Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup on a chilly day! This hearty and comforting soup is packed with tender beef, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful broth that will bring back memories of home-cooked meals. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a timeless classic that never disappoints.
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Ingredients
For the Soup:
- Beef Stew Meat (1 lb, cut into bite-sized pieces) – Tender chunks of beef add richness.
- Olive Oil (2 tbsp) – For browning the beef.
- Onion (1 medium, chopped) – Adds a deep, savory flavor.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Enhances the broth with an aromatic kick.
- Carrots (2, sliced) – Adds a touch of sweetness.
- Celery (2 stalks, chopped) – Provides a classic soup flavor.
- Potatoes (2 medium, diced) – Makes the soup heartier.
- Tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz, diced) – Adds a rich tomato base.
- Tomato Paste (2 tbsp) – Intensifies the broth.
- Beef Broth (6 cups) – The foundation of the soup.
- Bay Leaf (1) – Adds a subtle, earthy note.
- Worcestershire Sauce (1 tbsp) – Enhances the umami flavor.
- Dried Thyme (1 tsp) – Classic herb for depth.
- Dried Oregano (1 tsp) – Brings a warm, herby taste.
- Salt & Pepper (to taste) – Adjust to your preference.
For the Vegetables (Add Later):
- Green Beans (1 cup, chopped) – Adds a fresh crunch.
- Corn (1 cup, frozen or canned, drained) – Brings a touch of sweetness.
- Peas (½ cup, frozen) – Adds color and texture.
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
- Add the beef and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same pot, add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery.
- Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
Step 3: Build the Broth
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
- Add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaf, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Return the browned beef to the pot.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
- Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cover and let simmer for 45-60 minutes, or until the beef is tender.
Step 5: Add the Remaining Vegetables
- Stir in the potatoes and continue simmering for 15 minutes.
- Add the green beans, corn, and peas, cooking for another 5-10 minutes until everything is tender.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
- Remove the bay leaf and discard it.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or cornbread on the side.
Notes
- Use a Good Cut of Beef: Chuck roast or stew meat works best for tender bites.
- Simmer Low and Slow: This develops deep flavors and makes the beef melt-in-your-mouth tender.
- Customize Your Veggies: Swap in your favorites like zucchini, bell peppers, or cabbage.
- Make It Ahead: The flavors deepen overnight, making it even better the next day.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Cuisine: American