Hearty Beef and Vegetable Soup is a comforting and nutritious dish that warms you up on chilly days. Packed with tender beef, a variety of vegetables, and flavorful broth, this soup is perfect for a family meal or to enjoy throughout the week. It’s easy to make and can be customized with your favorite vegetables!

Ingredients List

For the Soup:

• 1 pound beef stew meat (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 3 carrots (sliced)
• 2 celery stalks (sliced)
• 1 bell pepper (chopped)
• 2 potatoes (diced)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup green beans (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Timing

Preparing Hearty Beef and Vegetable Soup takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 1.5 to 2 hours of cooking time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

1. Heat Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Brown Beef: Add the beef stew meat and season with salt and pepper. Brown the meat on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

1. Cook Onions and Garlic: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until softened.
2. Add Remaining Vegetables: Add the carrots, celery, bell pepper, and potatoes. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings

1. Combine Ingredients: Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, thyme, oregano, bay leaf, and additional salt and pepper. Stir to combine.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

1. Bring to a Boil: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
2. Cover and Simmer: Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the beef is tender.

Step 5: Add Green Beans and Corn

1. Incorporate Vegetables: In the last 15 minutes of cooking, add the green beans and corn to the pot. Stir and continue to simmer until the vegetables are tender.

Step 6: Serve

1. Garnish and Enjoy: Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your hearty and delicious Hearty Beef and Vegetable Soup!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Hearty Beef and Vegetable Soup (per serving, based on 6 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	320
Protein	25g
Fat	12g
Carbohydrates	30g
Sugar	4g

Tips for Customization

• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like zucchini, peas, or mushrooms based on your preference.
• Bean Addition: For added protein and fiber, consider adding a can of beans (like kidney or black beans) during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Store any leftover Hearty Beef and Vegetable Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave. This soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just make sure it cools completely before freezing.

Conclusion

Hearty Beef and Vegetable Soup is a satisfying and nourishing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, it’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation!

FAQs

Can I use ground beef instead of stew meat?

Yes, you can use ground beef, but the cooking time will be shorter. Brown it first and then follow the recipe.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always check the labels of your ingredients to be sure.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.