Vegetable Beef Soup

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of Vegetable Beef Soup, especially on a chilly winter evening. As a child, I remember coming home from school to the inviting aroma wafting through the house, signaling that dinner was just around the corner. My mom would often whip up this hearty soup to warm us from the inside out. It’s a simple recipe that has been passed down through generations, filled with nourishing ingredients and love. Whether it’s to fend off the cold or simply to indulge in a rich, savory flavor, this Vegetable Beef Soup has a way of bringing everyone together around the table.

What’s In This Vegetable Beef Soup

Each ingredient in this Vegetable Beef Soup plays a vital role in creating a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. The combination of meat and vegetables not only provides nourishment but also balances flavors perfectly. The rich beef broth brings everything together, while the fresh vegetables add color and nutrition.

• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour: This is used to coat the meat, helping to thicken the soup as it cooks, resulting in a rich and hearty texture.
• 1½ tsp salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the soup, bringing out the natural taste of the ingredients.
• 1½ tsp pepper: Adds a bit of heat and depth to the soup, balancing the flavors beautifully.
• 2 lbs stew meat: Tender and flavorful, this is the star of the soup, providing protein and heartiness.
• 2 Tbsp vegetable oil: Used for browning the meat, adding a nice flavor base before the slow cooking begins.
• 6 carrots: Chopped for sweetness and texture, carrots are a classic addition to any hearty soup.
• 2 celery stalks: Adds a refreshing crunch and subtle flavor that complements the other vegetables.
• 1 large onion: A staple in many recipes, onions add a depth of flavor and sweetness when cooked.
• 2 cloves garlic: Minced garlic gives the soup an aromatic essence that elevates the overall dish.
• 1 (28-oz) can diced tomatoes: These provide acidity and sweetness, balancing the richness of the meat.
• 8 cups beef broth: The foundation of the soup, a good broth is crucial for adding flavor and moisture.
• 1 cup corn kernels: Adds sweetness and texture; you can use frozen or fresh corn.
• 1 cup cut green beans: These add a nice crunch and vibrant color to the soup.
• 1 cup lima beans: A great source of protein, these beans add creaminess to the dish.
• 1 cup frozen green peas: These contribute a pop of color and a sweet flavor.
• 1 tsp dried thyme: A fragrant herb that complements the beef beautifully.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for final adjustments to flavor.

Instructions for Vegetable Beef Soup

Making this Vegetable Beef Soup is an enjoyable process that fills your kitchen with wonderful scents. Follow these steps for a delicious result.

1. Begin by combining flour, salt, and pepper in a large resealable bag. This step is crucial for ensuring that the stew meat gets evenly coated, which will enhance the soup’s texture.
2. Next, add the stew meat to the bag. Seal it tightly and shake well until the meat is evenly coated. This will help the meat brown nicely when cooked.
3. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add in the coated stew meat. Sear the meat until it is lightly browned on all sides, which should take about five to seven minutes.
4. Transfer the browned stew meat to your slow cooker. This is where the magic happens, as the slow cooking will make the meat tender and flavorful.
5. Now, add all the remaining ingredients into the slow cooker: carrots, celery, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, beef broth, corn kernels, green beans, lima beans, green peas, thyme, and adjust with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Stir everything gently to combine, making sure the meat and vegetables are well distributed.
7. Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on LOW for about eight hours. During this time, the flavors will meld beautifully, creating a comforting and hearty soup.
8. Once the cooking time is up, open the lid and take a moment to inhale the incredible aroma. The Vegetable Beef Soup should be thick and bubbling.
9. Finally, serve the soup hot. It’s perfect with some crusty bread on the side, so everyone can enjoy every last drop!

Helpful Hints

Here are some extra tips for making your Vegetable Beef Soup the best it can be. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned pro, you’ll find these helpful!

• Storage: After cooking, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps maintain its flavor and texture.
• Freezing: Portion the soup into individual freezer bags. This way, you can take out just what you need for a quick meal!
• Pairing: This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread or a fresh garden salad.
• Adjusting Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the beans or vegetables at the end of cooking to help thicken the broth.
• Seasoning: Always taste your soup before serving. You may want to adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs.

What Complements This Vegetable Beef Soup

When it comes to serving the Vegetable Beef Soup, there are numerous delightful options to enhance your meal experience.

• Crusty Bread: A warm slice of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the soup, soaking up all the delicious juices.
• Garden Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
• Cheesy Garlic Bread: For a more indulgent side, serve with cheesy garlic bread. The melted cheese gives an extra layer of flavor.
• Occasions: This soup is ideal for cozy family dinners, casual get-togethers, or even during holidays when you want something hearty.
• Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for several days and taste even better the next day!

FAQ

Conclusion

This Vegetable Beef Soup encapsulates comfort in a bowl. The combination of tender beef and fresh vegetables creates a nourishing meal that warms the soul. Whether you’re serving it during a family gathering or enjoying it alone on a quiet evening, this soup is sure to bring a smile to your face. I encourage you to give this recipe a try tonight, as it’s not only simple to make but also incredibly satisfying. You won’t regret it!

Vegetable Beef Soup

Craving something hearty and warm? This Vegetable Beef Soup is the ultimate comfort dish, loaded with tender beef, fresh vegetables, and rich flavors. Perfect for chilly evenings or meal prep, it's a satisfying choice that will keep everyone coming back for more!

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 8 hours hrs

Total Time 8 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
• 1½ tsp salt
• 1½ tsp pepper
• 2 lbs stew meat cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 2 Tbsp vegetable oil
• 6 carrots chopped
• 2 celery stalks chopped
• 1 large onion chopped
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 28-oz can diced tomatoes undrained
• 8 cups beef broth
• 1 cup corn kernels frozen or fresh
• 1 cup cut green beans frozen or fresh
• 1 cup lima beans fresh or frozen
• 1 cup frozen green peas
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

• 12-inch Non-Stick Skillet
• 6-qt Slow Cooker

Method

 

1. Combine flour, salt, and pepper in a large resealable bag. Add stew meat and shake to coat.
2. Heat oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Add stew meat and cook until lightly browned.
3. Add meat and remaining ingredients to slow cooker.
4. Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours.

Notes

• Tip 1: You can use beef stew meat or chuck roast cut into bite-sized pieces.
• Tip 2: If you are short on time, you can cook the soup on HIGH for 4 hours, or until the beef is tender.
• Tip 3: Yes! You can make Beef Vegetable Soup on the stovetop by browning the meat first and adding broth.
• Tip 4: You can freeze the soup, storing it for up to three months.
• Tip 5: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

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