Introduction
Warm up with a hearty vegetable soup loaded with tender beef, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful broth. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a cozy meal and works well as a family dinner or a meal-prep option. With its blend of savory flavors and nourishing ingredients, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 lb stewing beef, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef stock
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 potatoes, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 celery ribs, chopped
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
- Prepare the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add beef and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside. - Cook the Vegetables
In the same pot, sauté the onion and garlic until the onion becomes translucent. - Combine Ingredients
Return the beef to the pot. Add beef stock, diced tomatoes, carrots, potatoes, celery, thyme, and oregano. Stir well. - Simmer
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 30-40 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the beef is fully cooked. - Add Frozen Vegetables
Stir in the peas and corn. Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes. - Season and Serve
Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, optionally paired with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Enjoy this soup hot as a main dish. Pair with bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or bag. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Tips for Success
- Brown the Beef: Don’t skip this step—it adds depth of flavor to the soup.
- Consistent Chopping: Cut vegetables into even pieces for uniform cooking.
- Low and Slow: Simmering gently enhances the flavor.
Health Benefits
- Nutrient-Dense: Packed with vitamins and minerals from the vegetables.
- Protein-Rich: Contains lean protein from beef.
- Low-Calorie: A satisfying, healthy option that’s low in calories.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 6g
Variations and Substitutions
- Meat: Swap beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Vegetables: Customize by adding zucchini, green beans, or spinach.
- Grains: Add cooked barley or pasta for extra heartiness.
FAQs
- Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Absolutely! Substitute with about four diced fresh tomatoes. - How can I make this soup vegetarian?
Omit the beef and use vegetable broth instead of beef stock. - Can I use a slow cooker?
Yes! Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Conclusion
This Easy Vegetable Beef Soup is a wholesome, comforting dish that’s simple to prepare and full of flavor. Whether it’s a chilly winter evening or a summer night, this recipe brings warmth and nourishment to the table. Share with loved ones and enjoy the satisfaction of a delicious, home-cooked meal.