Hearty Beef and Vegetable Soup

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Why Make This Recipe

Hearty Beef and Vegetable Soup is a comforting dish perfect for chilly days. It is packed with nutritious vegetables and tender beef, making it a wholesome meal. This soup not only warms you up but also fills your belly with delicious flavors. Plus, it’s easy to make and is great for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers throughout the week.

How to Make Hearty Beef and Vegetable Soup

Ingredients

  • 1 lb beef chuck, cut into cubes (or stew meat; chuck gives the best balance of flavor and collagen)
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 2 stalks celery, chopped
  • 3 potatoes, diced (Yukon Gold or russet)
  • 4 cups beef broth (use low-sodium if you’ll taste and salt later)
  • 1 cup green beans, chopped (fresh or frozen)
  • 2 teaspoons garlic, minced (about 2 cloves)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh, chopped)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Directions

  1. Preparation: Start by chopping all your vegetables and cutting the beef into cubes. This will make cooking easier and faster.

  2. Cooking: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they become soft. Then, add the beef cubes and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the beef is browned on all sides.

  3. Next, add the minced garlic and dried thyme, stirring for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add the diced potatoes and green beans.

  4. Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

How to Serve Hearty Beef and Vegetable Soup

Serve the soup hot in bowls. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a green salad. For added flavor, sprinkle some fresh herbs or grated cheese on top.

How to Store Hearty Beef and Vegetable Soup

Allow the soup to cool completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it cool down before putting it in the freezer.

Tips to Make Hearty Beef and Vegetable Soup

  • For more flavor, you can brown the beef in batches instead of all at once, letting it get a nice sear.
  • Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like peas or corn.
  • If you like a thicker soup, you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water at the end and let it cook for a few more minutes.

Variation

You can turn this soup into a chili by adding some beans and spices. Replace half the beef with ground meat for a different taste and texture.

FAQs

  1. Can I use other types of meat?
    Yes, you can use chicken, turkey, or even pork for this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time according to the meat used.

  2. Can I add more vegetables?
    Absolutely! Feel free to include any vegetables you enjoy, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms.

  3. Is this soup good for meal prep?
    Yes, this soup stores well and is perfect for meal prep. It’s easy to reheat and tastes even better the next day!

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