Introduction
This Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup is a comforting and nutritious dish that’s perfect for warming up on a chilly day. Packed with tender beef, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, it’s a meal that the whole family will love.
Detailed Ingredients
500 grams beef chuck, cubed
30 ml olive oil
150 grams onions, diced
100 grams carrots, sliced
100 grams celery, sliced
200 grams potatoes, cubed
3 garlic cloves, minced
150 grams green beans, chopped
100 grams peas
400 grams canned diced tomatoes
1 liter beef broth
15 grams tomato paste
5 grams thyme
5 grams rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
20 grams fresh parsley, chopped
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the cubed beef and sear until browned on all sides. Remove beef and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the green beans, peas, potatoes, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and tomato paste. Add the thyme and rosemary.
5. Return the browned beef to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours until beef is tender and vegetables are cooked through.
7. Stir in fresh parsley before serving.
8. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
9. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.
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Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Sear the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the cubed beef and sear until browned on all sides, creating a deep, rich flavor. Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside, allowing the drippings to remain in the pot for added depth.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, introduce the diced onions, sliced carrots, and sliced celery. Sauté these aromatic vegetables for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and release their sweet scents.
Step 3: Add Garlic
Stir in the minced garlic and continue to cook for an additional minute. The garlic should become fragrant, adding another layer of flavor to the mix.
Step 4: Combine with Other Ingredients
Now, stir in the chopped green beans, peas, cubed potatoes, canned diced tomatoes, beef broth, and tomato paste. Add the thyme and rosemary, allowing the herbs’ earthy aromas to meld with the mixture.
Step 5: Return the Beef
Carefully return the browned beef to the pot. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring the flavors balance beautifully.
Step 6: Simmer the Soup
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours. The low simmer will tenderize the beef and blend the flavors, resulting in a comforting, hearty soup.
Step 7: Finish with Fresh Herbs
Before serving, stir in the chopped fresh parsley. This will add a vibrant color and fresh flavor, brightening the entire dish.
Step 8: Adjust Seasoning
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary, ensuring each spoonful is packed with flavor.
Step 9: Serve
Serve the soup hot with crusty bread or crackers on the side, perfect for dipping and adding to the meal’s warmth.
Notes
Beef Selection
For the best results, use beef chuck as it becomes tender through slow cooking, adding richness to the soup.
Vegetable Variations
Feel free to customize the vegetable mix according to your preference or what you have on hand. Zucchini, bell peppers, or corn can be excellent additions.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for longer storage. Reheat on the stove over low heat for best results, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Cook Techniques
Searing
To achieve maximum flavor, sear the beef cubes in a hot pot until browned on all sides. This step helps develop a rich base for the soup.
Sautéing
Sauté the onions, carrots, and celery in olive oil until they begin to soften. This technique enhances the sweetness of the vegetables and adds depth to the soup’s flavor.
Simmering
Once all ingredients are combined, bring the soup to a boil and then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours. This slow cooking method tenderizes the beef and allows the flavors to meld together.
Seasoning
Taste the soup towards the end of cooking and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Proper seasoning is crucial for a well-balanced dish.
FAQ
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, you can use other cuts like brisket or round, but chuck is ideal for its tenderness after slow cooking.
What vegetables can I substitute in the soup?
Feel free to add or substitute vegetables like zucchini, corn, or bell peppers according to your preference.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! You can brown the beef first, then transfer all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Is it possible to freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the soup in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
How can I make this soup gluten-free?
Ensure that the beef broth and any other ingredients used are labeled gluten-free, and avoid adding any wheat-based thickening agents.
Conclusion
This Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a perfect choice for family gatherings or cozy nights in. The combination of tender beef and vibrant vegetables not only warms the body but also nourishes the soul. Serve it with crusty bread or crackers for a fulfilling meal that everyone will enjoy.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chunky Chicken and Vegetable Soup
Replace beef with chicken for a lighter option while keeping the same hearty vegetable mix.
Vegetarian Lentil Soup
Substitute beef broth with vegetable broth and add lentils for a protein-packed vegetarian dish.
Spicy Southwest Beef Soup
Add jalapeños and corn to give a spicy twist to the traditional recipe, topped with avocado slices.
Beef and Barley Soup
Incorporate barley along with the vegetables for added texture and heartiness.
Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
Blend the canned diced tomatoes with cream and fresh basil for a rich and creamy alternative.
Italian Sausage and Vegetable Soup
Use Italian sausage instead of beef for a flavorful and hearty soup with an Italian flair.
