Winter warmer alert: discover the secret recipe for a comforting vegetable soup with beef

Indulge in the warmth and nourishment of a classic vegetable soup with beef recipe. This hearty and flavorful dish is perfect for cozying up on a chilly day or recovering from a cold. With a combination of tender beef, crisp vegetables, and a rich broth, this soup is sure to satisfy your cravings and bring comfort to your soul.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 4 cups water
• 1 cup chopped green beans
• 1 cup chopped peas
• 1 cup chopped potatoes
• 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or stockpot over medium heat. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper and brown them in the hot oil, working in batches if necessary. Remove the beef and set aside.
2. Soften the Aromatics: Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic to the same pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the beef broth and water, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
4. Add the Vegetables: Return the beef to the pot along with the green beans, peas, potatoes, tomatoes, oregano, thyme, and bay leaf.
5. Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1-2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
6. Season to Taste: Adjust the seasonings with salt and pepper to your liking.
7. Serve: Ladle the warm vegetable soup with beef into bowls and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Vegetable Soup with Beef:

• Use a Variety of Vegetables: Feel free to customize your soup by adding or substituting other vegetables you like, such as corn, zucchini, or bell peppers.
• Brown the Beef: Browning the beef adds flavor and depth to the soup. Don’t skip this step!
• Simmer Long Enough: The longer you simmer the soup, the more flavorful it will become.
• Adjust the Broth: If the soup is too thick, add more broth or water. If it’s too thin, simmer it longer to reduce the liquid.
• Serve with Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty bread is the perfect accompaniment to this hearty soup.

Health Benefits:

Vegetable soup with beef is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It’s a good source of:

• Protein: The beef provides essential amino acids for building and repairing tissues.
• Vitamins: The vegetables are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, which are important for immune function, skin health, and blood clotting.
• Minerals: The soup contains minerals such as potassium, magnesium, and iron, which are vital for overall health.
• Fiber: The vegetables provide dietary fiber, which promotes digestive health and keeps you feeling full.

Variations:

• Slow Cooker Vegetable Soup with Beef: Combine all the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
• Creamy Vegetable Soup with Beef: Add 1 cup of heavy cream or milk to the soup after simmering.
• Spicy Vegetable Soup with Beef: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to give the soup a kick.
• Vegetarian Vegetable Soup: Omit the beef and add more vegetables, such as lentils or beans.

Wrapping Up:

Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal on a chilly day or a nutritious and flavorful dish, this vegetable soup with beef recipe is sure to impress. With its tender beef, crisp vegetables, and rich broth, it’s a classic dish that will warm your body and soul. So gather your ingredients and indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience!