Introduction
Vegetable Beef Soup is a hearty and wholesome dish that brings together tender chunks of beef, a medley of fresh vegetables, and a savory broth. This classic soup is perfect for warming up on cold days or serving as a satisfying meal any time of the year. Packed with nutritious ingredients and rich flavors, it’s a dish that comforts the body and soul. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or preparing meals ahead of time, Vegetable Beef Soup is a versatile and delicious choice.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Vegetable Beef Soup has been a staple in many cultures for centuries, often considered a symbol of comfort and nourishment. Its origins can be traced back to the use of stews and soups in ancient times, where combining meat with available vegetables was a practical way to create a filling and nutritious meal. In American cuisine, this soup gained popularity during the 20th century, especially as a homemade remedy for cold winter days and a way to make the most of seasonal produce. Today, it’s a beloved dish enjoyed by families and communities, representing warmth, hospitality, and the essence of home-cooked goodness.
Ingredients Quantity
To prepare this delicious Vegetable Beef Soup, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 pounds beef stew meat
- ¾ teaspoon Kosher salt or to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 ½ cups chopped yellow onion
- 3 ribs celery, chopped
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 4 cups low sodium beef broth
- 15 ounces diced tomatoes
- 1 bay leaf
- ½ pound Yukon gold potatoes, about 2 medium, chopped into ¾-inch pieces
- 3 carrots, chopped into ¼-inch pieces
- 1 cup chopped green beans, 1-inch pieces, fresh or frozen
- 1 cup frozen peas
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for serving)
Optional Additions
To enhance your Vegetable Beef Soup, consider incorporating these optional ingredients and variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a hint of heat.
- Additional Herbs: Include fresh rosemary or oregano for extra herbal notes.
- Barley: Stir in a half-cup of barley for added texture and heartiness.
- Corn: Add a cup of fresh or frozen corn kernels for a touch of sweetness.
- Mushrooms: Incorporate sliced mushrooms for an earthy depth of flavor.
Tips for Success
Creating the perfect Vegetable Beef Soup involves a few key tips:
- Browning the Meat: Sear the beef in batches to ensure it browns evenly and develops a deep, rich flavor.
- Deglazing: Use the balsamic vinegar to deglaze the pot, lifting any flavorful bits from the bottom.
- Simmering Time: Allow the soup to simmer slowly to let the flavors meld and the meat become tender.
- Fresh Vegetables: Use fresh, high-quality vegetables for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the salt and pepper as needed for a well-balanced flavor.
Instructions
Follow these steps to make your Vegetable Beef Soup:
- Heat the Olive Oil: Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or other heavy pot over medium heat. Once hot, brown the beef in two batches, seasoning each half of the beef with half of the salt and pepper when you add it to the pot. Remove the meat to a clean plate.
- Cook the Vegetables: Add the onion, celery, and balsamic vinegar to the pot. Cook until softened, 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add Aromatics and Tomato Paste: Add the garlic, Italian seasoning, dried thyme, and tomato paste. Cook, stirring, for 1 minute.
- Combine Broth and Beef: Add the beef broth, diced tomatoes, bay leaf, and browned beef plus any juices from the plate to the pot. Stir. Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low so that it maintains a low simmer and cover the pot. Cook at a low simmer for 1 hour.
- Add Remaining Vegetables: Stir in the potatoes, carrots, and green beans. Cover and simmer until the carrots are tender, about 35-45 more minutes, adding the frozen peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Finalize the Soup: Remove and discard the bay leaf. Taste and add more salt and/or pepper if needed. Serve the soup garnished with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
Description
Vegetable Beef Soup is a delightful combination of tender beef and a variety of fresh vegetables simmered to perfection in a savory broth. The beef stew meat becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, while the Yukon gold potatoes, carrots, and green beans add vibrant colors and hearty textures. The addition of balsamic vinegar and Italian seasoning infuses the soup with a rich, robust flavor, while the tomato paste adds a subtle sweetness. Each spoonful is a comforting blend of meaty goodness and vegetable freshness, making it a satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional content for one serving of this soup:
- Calories: Approximately 350
- Protein: 25 grams
- Carbohydrates: 25 grams
- Fat: 15 grams
- Fiber: 5 grams
- Sugar: 7 grams
Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used.
Conclusion and Recommendation
Vegetable Beef Soup is a timeless classic that combines the rich flavors of beef with the wholesome goodness of fresh vegetables. It’s an easy-to-make dish that is perfect for feeding a crowd or preparing ahead for busy days. Whether you enjoy it as a comforting dinner on a cold evening or as a hearty lunch, this soup is sure to satisfy. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will love.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Indulging in delicious, homemade dishes like Vegetable Beef Soup can be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. Using fresh, high-quality ingredients and preparing meals from scratch allows you to control the nutritional content and avoid unnecessary additives. This soup not only provides comforting flavors but also offers nutritional benefits from the protein-rich beef and the variety of vegetables. Embrace the joy of healthful indulgence by savoring each spoonful mindfully and appreciating the love and care that goes into homemade cooking.
Happy cooking and enjoy your hearty and delicious Vegetable Beef Soup!