Hearty Old Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe
Winter’s chill brings a perfect time for a warm bowl of comfort food. The old fashioned vegetable beef soup recipe is a top pick for cozy meals. Its smell of beef broth, tender meat, and garden-fresh vegetables takes you back to grandma’s kitchen. There, every spoonful of homemade soup was a joy.
Table of Contents
Why This Classic Soup Recipe Stands the Test of Time
This old-fashioned family recipe for Vegetable Beef Soup is a true comfort food classic. It’s loved for its hearty, nutrient-rich ingredients and comforting flavors. These have been passed down through generations.
Traditional Comfort Food Heritage
This soup has been a favorite in many homes for decades, maybe even centuries. It shows the value of versatile and wholesome meals. These nourish both the body and soul. The mix of tender beef, fresh veggies, and rich broth captures the heart of traditional comfort food.
Health Benefits and Nutritional Value
This Vegetable Beef Soup is more than just tasty; it’s also very nutritious. It’s full of vitamins, minerals, and fiber from various veggies like carrots, celery, and potatoes. The beef adds lean, nutrient-rich protein.
Perfect for Any Season
This family recipe has stood the test of time because it’s perfect for any season. It’s comforting on a cold winter night or a mild autumn day. Its flexibility with seasonal produce and as a main course makes it a timeless classic.
Essential Ingredients for Old Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe
To make a true old-fashioned vegetable beef soup, you need the right ingredients. Start with beef broth for a rich, savory base. Add stew meat or ground beef for protein and texture.
Diced potatoes, a mix of frozen vegetables, and canned diced tomatoes are key. They add flavor and make the soup look great. Butter, Worcestershire sauce, onion, bay leaves, salt, and pepper bring it all together. This makes the soup balanced and comforting.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Beef Stew Meat | 1.5 pounds, cut into 3/4-inch cubes |
| Beef Broth | 7 cups |
| Canned Diced Tomatoes | 28 ounces |
| Potatoes, peeled and diced | 3 large russet potatoes |
| Frozen Mixed Vegetables | 1 1/2 cups |
| Onion, chopped | 1 medium yellow onion |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Tomato Paste | 2 tablespoons |
| Dried Italian Seasoning | 1 teaspoon |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons |
| Worcestershire Sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Bay Leaves | 2 |
| Salt and Pepper | To taste |
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a delicious vegetable beef soup. It will warm your heart and fill your senses.
Choosing the Perfect Cut of Beef for Your Soup
Choosing the right beef is crucial for a delicious vegetable beef soup. Chuck roast, cut into ¾-inch cubes, is perfect. It offers tenderness and a rich, beefy flavor.
Best Cuts for Tender Results
Chuck roast is a top choice, but pre-cubed stew meat is also great. For a cheaper option, ground beef works well. It adds a nice texture and flavor to the soup.
Budget-Friendly Options
Choosing the right cut is important for tenderness. Searing the beef before adding it to the soup keeps the juices in. Look for grass-fed and natural beef at your local market or butcher.
Proper Meat Preparation Tips
- Trim any excess fat from chuck roast or stew meat before cubing.
- Pat the beef dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Sear the beef in batches in a hot, lightly oiled pan to achieve a nice brown crust.
- Deglaze the pan with a splash of broth or wine, scraping up any browned bits for extra flavor.
| Nutrition Facts | Value per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 345 |
| Protein | 20g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 6g |
| Cholesterol | 54mg |
| Sodium | 1097mg |
| Potassium | 921mg |
| Carbohydrates | 27g |
| Fiber | 6g |
| Sugar | 4g |
| Vitamin A | 5275IU |
| Vitamin C | 5.9mg |
| Calcium | 50mg |
| Iron | 2.7mg |
“The key to a truly satisfying vegetable beef soup is selecting the right cut of meat and preparing it with care.”
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making Old Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is a fun and rewarding task. It lets you enjoy the rich, comforting taste of this classic dish. Begin by searing the beef in batches to keep the juices in and boost the flavor. After the meat is browned, add the onions, garlic, celery, and carrots to the pot. Let them soften and release their flavors.
Then, mix in the tomato paste and flour to make a thick, velvety base. Slowly add the broth, stirring well to avoid lumps. Simmer the soup with herbs for about an hour. This lets the flavors mix and the meat get tender.
- Add the diced potatoes and simmer until they’re fork-tender, about 30 minutes.
- Stir in the green beans and peas and cook for 10-15 minutes more. This ensures all veggies are cooked just right.
This Old Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup recipe takes about 2 hours to cook. It results in a hearty, satisfying soup with tender meat and perfectly cooked veggies.
| Preparation Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30 minutes | 1 hour | 1 hour 30 minutes | 6 |
“The key to a truly exceptional Old Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is in the layering of flavors through careful preparation and simmering.”
Secret Tips for Rich and Flavorful Broth
Want to make your old-fashioned vegetable beef soup taste amazing? Start with beef broth and beef bouillon. The broth gives a strong base, while the bouillon adds more beef flavor. Try adding soy sauce, Italian herbs, or hot sauce for an extra kick.
Using Beef Bouillon and Stock
For a flavorful broth, mix beef stock with beef bouillon. The bouillon boosts the beef flavor, making the broth even richer. Start with a 4:1 broth-to-bouillon ratio and adjust to taste.
Deglazing Techniques
Don’t ignore the browned bits at the bottom of your pot. After searing the beef, deglaze the pan with beef broth. This step adds depth to your soup, making every spoonful full of flavor.
Seasoning Strategies
Try different seasonings to find your favorite taste. Beef base adds a deep, umami flavor. Italian herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme add aroma. For a spicy touch, add hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce. Taste and adjust as you go to get the perfect flavor enhancement.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Beef broth | 4 cups |
| Beef bouillon | 1 teaspoon |
| Soy sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Italian seasoning | 1 teaspoon |
| Hot sauce | 1/2 teaspoon |
“The key to a truly memorable vegetable beef soup is in the broth. With a few simple tricks, you can transform an ordinary soup into a rich, flavorful masterpiece.”
Vegetable Selection and Preparation Guide
Choosing the right vegetables is key to making a great old-fashioned vegetable beef soup. Using a mix of fresh and frozen produce can make the soup taste better. It brings together flavors and textures in a perfect way.
Begin with a mix of fresh and frozen veggies. You’ll need potatoes, carrots, celery, and onions for the base. Frozen mixed vegetables add convenience and variety. They can include peas, green beans, or corn.
- Fresh produce: Potatoes, carrots, celery, onions
- Frozen options: Mixed vegetables, green beans, peas
Proper cutting is important for vegetable preparation. Make sure all veggies are cut the same size. This helps them cook evenly and ensures flavors spread well in the soup.
“Properly prepared vegetables are the foundation of a truly delicious vegetable beef soup.”
Adding veggies like cabbage or kale can make the soup healthier. The trick is to find the right mix of fresh and frozen veggies. This creates a soup that’s both satisfying and balanced.
Cooking Methods: Stovetop vs Slow Cooker
Preparing Vegetable Beef Soup can be done two ways: stovetop or slow cooker. Both methods make a delicious, hearty soup. You can choose the one that fits your cooking style best.
Traditional Stovetop Method
To cook on the stovetop, use a Dutch oven. Brown the beef cubes over medium-high heat to add flavor. Then, deglaze the pot with beef broth to get all the tasty bits.
Add the rest of the broth and let it simmer for 30 minutes. After adding potatoes, simmer for another 20 minutes. This makes the potatoes tender.
Slow Cooker Adaptation
For a crockpot version, start by searing the beef cubes. Then, put them in your Instant Pot or slow cooker. Add all the ingredients, including broth, and let it cook.
Cook on low for 8 to 10 hours or high for 4 to 5 hours. This way, the beef and veggies will be tender.
Whether you choose stovetop or slow cooker, your home will smell amazing. You’ll get a homemade meal that’s great for any time of year.
Storage and Freezing Guidelines
After making your tasty old-fashioned vegetable beef soup, it’s important to store it right. This way, you can enjoy it as leftovers or for future meal prep. Here’s how to keep your soup fresh and full of flavor.
To store the soup in the fridge, cool it down first. Then, put it in airtight containers. It will stay good for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to eat it again, just heat it up on the stovetop or in the microwave.
If you want to keep it longer, the soup is great for freezer-friendly meals. Cool it down completely, then put it in freezer-safe containers or bags. Make sure to leave some space for it to expand when it freezes. Stored right, it will stay good for up to 2 months in the freezer.
To reheat the frozen soup, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then, heat it up in a saucepan on the stovetop until it’s hot. Or, you can reheat it in the microwave, stirring often, until it’s steaming hot.
| Storage Method | Shelf Life | Reheating Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 4 days | Heat on stovetop or in microwave until hot |
| Freezer | Up to 2 months | Thaw overnight in refrigerator, then heat on stovetop or in microwave |
By following these easy storage and freezing tips, you can enjoy this comforting soup whenever you want. Whether it’s a week or a few months later, the flavors will still be great.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Make your vegetable beef soup even better with some tasty sides. Try a crusty bread like a French baguette or ciabatta. It’s perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth.
For a full meal, add a side salad with your favorite greens and veggies. You can also top the soup with fresh parsley or chives for color and flavor. Or, sprinkle some grated cheese for a savory finish.
For a heartier meal, serve the soup over steamed rice or with a grilled cheese sandwich. The creamy soup and these classic pairings make for a satisfying meal.
This soup is very versatile, so you can choose what you like best. Whether you want a light meal or something more filling, there are many ways to enjoy it.
FAQ
What makes this vegetable beef soup recipe a classic comfort food?
This classic recipe has tender beef, mixed veggies, and potatoes in a rich broth. It’s a favorite for cold months, offering a warm and satisfying meal.
What are the health benefits and nutritional value of this soup?
The soup is full of healthy veggies and beef, making it a good choice. It’s great all year, using seasonal ingredients and cooking methods.
What are the key ingredients in this old-fashioned vegetable beef soup?
It includes beef broth, bouillon, diced potatoes, and frozen mixed veggies. Canned diced tomatoes and stew meat or ground beef are also key. Butter, Worcestershire sauce, onion, bay leaves, salt, and pepper add flavor.
What is the best cut of beef for this soup recipe?
Chuck roast cut into ¾-inch cubes is best for stew. Pre-cubed stew meat is easy, while ground beef is cheaper. Seared meat keeps it juicy and tender.
How do you prepare and cook the old-fashioned vegetable beef soup?
Start by searing the beef in batches. Add onions, garlic, celery, and carrots. Mix in tomato paste and flour, then add broth slowly.
Simmer with herbs for an hour, then add potatoes. Continue cooking. Add green beans and peas last. Cooking takes about 2 hours.
What are some tips for enhancing the flavor of the broth?
Use beef broth and bouillon for flavor. Deglaze the pan with broth to get tasty bits. Beef base can make it richer. Try Italian herbs, soy sauce, or hot sauce for your taste.
What types of vegetables are typically used in this soup?
It uses potatoes, carrots, celery, and onions. Frozen mixed veggies add variety. Cabbage, green beans, or peas can also be added for more nutrition and texture.
Can this soup be made in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?
Yes, it works in slow cookers and Instant Pots. For slow cookers, sear meat first and mix ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Instant Pots can sauté and pressure cook in one pot, cooking in about 15 minutes.
How long can the leftover soup be stored and how should it be reheated?
Cool soup and store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. For freezing, cool completely and store in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warm.
What are some recommended sides and pairings for this vegetable beef soup?
Serve with crusty bread, garlic bread, or buttermilk biscuits for a full meal. Add a side salad for extra veggies. Garnish with parsley or chives, or top with grated cheese for flavor. For a bigger meal, serve over rice or with a grilled cheese sandwich