Introduction
Vegetable Beef Soup is a classic comfort dish that blends tender chunks of beef with a colorful assortment of hearty vegetables in a savory, slow-simmered broth. It’s a nourishing, flavorful soup that’s as satisfying on a cold winter night as it is wholesome for everyday family meals. This version uses simple ingredients and traditional cooking methods to create deep, rich flavor that improves with every simmering minute.
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Ingredients
1 ½ pounds beef stew meat or chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups beef broth
2 cups water
3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
3 celery stalks, sliced
2 cups diced potatoes
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, with juice
1 cup green beans (fresh or frozen, cut into 1-inch pieces)
1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
1 bay leaf
Optional: 1 tablespoon tomato paste for richer flavor
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Instructions
1. Brown the beef:
Heat the oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté aromatics:
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook for about 3 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds, stirring to prevent burning.
3. Deglaze and combine:
Pour in a small amount of broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot — this adds deep flavor. Return the browned beef to the pot.
4. Add liquids and seasonings:
Add remaining broth, water, tomatoes, salt, pepper, thyme (or Italian seasoning), bay leaf, and optional tomato paste. Stir well.
5. Simmer:
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer gently for 1 ½ to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
6. Add vegetables:
Stir in carrots, celery, potatoes, and green beans. Continue simmering for 25–30 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
7. Finish:
Add corn and peas, and simmer for another 5–10 minutes. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
8. Serve:
Remove the bay leaf. Ladle hot soup into bowls and serve with crusty bread or crackers.
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Description
This Vegetable Beef Soup delivers a perfect balance of rich, meaty broth and the natural sweetness of simmered vegetables. The slow cooking process tenderizes the beef while allowing the flavors of garlic, herbs, and tomato to meld beautifully. Each spoonful offers comfort, nourishment, and a sense of home-cooked warmth that never goes out of style.
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Tips
Use the right cut: Beef chuck or stew meat works best; the connective tissue breaks down during cooking, creating a tender texture and rich broth.
Skim fat: For a cleaner broth, skim off excess fat that rises to the surface during simmering.
Flavor depth: Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or red wine for extra richness.
Time-saving tip: Use pre-cut frozen mixed vegetables for a quicker version.
Storage: The soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen overnight.
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Variations
Barley or Rice: Add ½ cup cooked barley or rice for extra heartiness.
Tomato-Rich: Double the tomato paste or add crushed tomatoes for a thicker, tangier soup.
Spicy Style: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for heat.
Slow Cooker Version: Combine all ingredients (except peas and corn) and cook on low for 7–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours. Add peas and corn during the final 30 minutes.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute vegetable broth and use plant-based beef crumbles or extra beans instead of meat.
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Correction Notes
If the broth tastes too bland, add a little more salt, a dash of soy sauce, or an extra teaspoon of tomato paste.
If the soup is too thick, stir in a bit of water or broth to reach desired consistency.
If vegetables are overcooked, add them later in the process next time to maintain texture.
Always remove the bay leaf before serving — it’s inedible but adds flavor during cooking.
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Enjoy
Serve hot and savor each spoonful of tender beef, colorful vegetables, and flavorful broth. This Vegetable Beef Soup is wholesome, filling, and truly comforting — a timeless favorite that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table.