Vegetable Soup Recipes

Vegetable beef soup is a comforting and nourishing dish that combines tender beef with a variety of vegetables. Here’s a beginner-friendly, detailed step-by-step recipe for a delicious and hearty vegetable beef soup.

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Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 pound beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 large potato, peeled and cubed
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 6 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup frozen peas
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Equipment:

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Brown the Beef

1. Heat the oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the beef: Add the beef stew meat and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

1. Sauté onion and garlic: In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables

1. Add carrots and celery: Stir in the sliced carrots and celery. Cook for 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
2. Add remaining vegetables: Add the cubed potato, diced zucchini, and green beans. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Add the Liquid and Seasonings

1. Return the beef: Add the browned beef back to the pot.
2. Pour in the broth: Add 6 cups of beef broth to the pot.
3. Add tomatoes and spices: Stir in the can of diced tomatoes (with juice), dried thyme, dried basil, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup

1. Bring to a boil: Increase the heat to high and bring the soup to a boil.
2. Reduce heat and simmer: Lower the heat and let the soup simmer for 45-60 minutes, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.

Step 6: Finish with Peas

1. Add frozen peas: Stir in 1 cup of frozen peas and cook for another 5 minutes.

Step 7: Serve

1. Remove bay leaf: Discard the bay leaf before serving.
2. Garnish and serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh chopped parsley, and enjoy!

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Tips for Making the Best Vegetable Beef Soup:

• Choose the right beef: Use beef stew meat or chuck roast for tender, flavorful pieces of beef.
• Brown the beef: Browning the beef before adding it to the soup enhances the flavor and creates a richer broth.
• Use fresh vegetables: Fresh vegetables provide the best texture and flavor, but you can also use frozen vegetables if needed.
• Simmer for tenderness: Allow the soup to simmer for at least 45 minutes to ensure the beef is tender and the flavors are well-developed.

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Final Thoughts

This beginner-friendly vegetable beef soup recipe is perfect for a hearty and comforting meal. Follow the step-by-step instructions to create a delicious soup that’s packed with tender beef and a variety of vegetables. Enjoy cooking and savoring this flavorful dish!