Beef Vegetable Soup

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Description:

A hearty, comforting soup packed with tender beef chunks, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful broth. Perfect for chilly days or when you need a nutritious, filling meal.

Origin:

Beef vegetable soup is a classic dish found in many cultures, especially in American and European home cooking, known for its warming and nourishing qualities.

Ingredients (Serves 6):

  • 1 lb (450g) beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized cubes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced
  • 3 medium potatoes, diced
  • 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 6 cups beef broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Ingredients:

  • 1 cup diced bell peppers
  • 1 cup peas
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste (for richer flavor)
  • Splash of Worcestershire sauce

Instructions:

1. Brown the Beef:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
  2. Add beef cubes and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.

2. Sauté Vegetables:

  1. In the same pot, add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
  2. Add carrots, celery, and optional bell peppers. Cook for 5 minutes.

3. Combine and Simmer:

  1. Return beef to the pot.
  2. Stir in potatoes, green beans, corn, diced tomatoes, beef broth, thyme, oregano, bay leaves, and tomato paste if using.
  3. Season with salt and pepper.

4. Cook:

  1. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours until beef is tender and vegetables are cooked through.

5. Finish and Serve:

  1. Remove bay leaves.
  2. Adjust seasoning if needed.
  3. Garnish with chopped parsley. Serve hot.

Tips for Success:

  • Brown beef well to develop deeper flavor.
  • Cut vegetables uniformly for even cooking.
  • Simmer gently to keep meat tender.
  • Use homemade beef broth for best taste.

Recommendations:

  • Serve with crusty bread or crackers.
  • Freeze leftovers in portions for quick meals.
  • Add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice at the end for brightness.

Nutrition (per serving, approx.):

  • Calories: 320
  • Protein: 28g
  • Carbs: 20g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Sugars: 6g
  • Sodium: 600mg

Would you like a slow cooker version, spicy variation, or a vegetarian substitute for beef?

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