Why Make This Recipe

Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup is a comforting dish that warms you up on a cold day. It’s packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables and the richness of beef, making it filling and satisfying. Not only does it taste great, but it also provides a great way to use up leftover vegetables. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be shared with family and friends.

How to Make Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 1⁄2 lbs beef stew meat
• 2 1⁄2 tbsp olive oil, divided
• Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
• 1 3⁄4 cups chopped yellow onion (1 large)
• 1 1⁄4 cups peeled and chopped carrots (3 medium)
• 1 cup chopped celery (3 medium)
• 1 1⁄2 tbsp minced garlic (4 cloves)
• 8 cups low-sodium beef or chicken broth
• 2 cans (14 oz each) diced tomatoes with juice
• 1 1⁄2 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1⁄2 tsp dried thyme
• 1 lb red or yellow potatoes, cubed (about 3⁄4 inch)
• 1 1⁄2 cups trimmed and chopped green beans
• 1 1⁄2 cups frozen corn
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1/3 cup fresh chopped parsley

Directions:

1. Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Pat the beef dry and season with salt and pepper. Brown half of the beef in the pot for about 4 minutes, turning halfway. Repeat with the remaining beef.
3. Add the remaining 1 tbsp of olive oil, then sauté the onions, carrots, and celery for 3 minutes.
4. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
5. Stir in the broth and diced tomatoes, returning the browned beef to the pot.
6. Add basil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 30 minutes.
7. Add potatoes, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
8. Stir in green beans and simmer for another 15 minutes until tender.
9. Add corn and peas, simmering for 5 more minutes.
10. Stir in parsley before serving. Serve warm and enjoy!

How to Serve Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup

Serve the soup hot in bowls. It pairs perfectly with crusty bread or a fresh salad. You can also top it with a sprinkle of extra parsley for added color and flavor.

How to Store Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool before transferring it to the freezer.

Tips to Make Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup

• For more flavor, let the soup simmer longer. The ingredients will blend better.
• Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or even beans for extra protein.
• If you like spice, add some crushed red pepper flakes for a kick.

Variation

You can make a lighter version by using leaner beef or substituting some vegetables with your favorites, such as zucchini or bell peppers. Using vegetable broth instead of beef broth will make it completely vegetarian.

FAQs

Can I use frozen beef stew meat?
Yes, frozen beef can be used. Just thaw it completely before cooking for even browning.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the beef first, then combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Is there a way to make this soup gluten-free?
Yes, ensure that the broth and any other ingredients you use are labeled gluten-free. This soup is naturally gluten-free if prepared with gluten-free broth.