Beef Vegetable Soup: A Hearty and Healthy Recipe
Are you looking for a comforting and nutritious meal that's perfect for a chilly evening? Look no further than this delicious beef vegetable soup recipe! This recipe is packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Let's dive into the ingredients and steps to create this satisfying bowl of goodness.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe is designed to be flexible, so feel free to adjust the vegetables based on your preferences and what you have on hand. However, here's a great starting point:
- 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes – Choose a cut known for its tenderness when slow-cooked.
- 1 tbsp olive oil – For sautéing the aromatics and adding richness.
- 1 large onion, chopped – Provides a sweet and savory base.
- 2 carrots, chopped – Adds sweetness and vibrant color.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped – Contributes a subtle earthy flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – A pungent flavor enhancer.
- 8 cups beef broth – The foundation of your soup's flavor. Low-sodium is preferred.
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained – Adds acidity and body.
- 1 cup chopped potatoes – Adds heartiness and texture.
- 1 cup chopped green beans – Adds a fresh, slightly crisp element.
- 1 cup chopped broccoli florets – Provides nutritional value and a mild flavor.
- 1 tsp dried thyme – An earthy herb that complements beef beautifully.
- 1 tsp dried rosemary – Adds a piney aroma and flavor.
- Salt and pepper – To taste, adjust to your preference.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional) – For a final garnish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Follow these simple steps to create a flavorful and hearty beef vegetable soup:
1. Brown the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides. This step enhances the flavor of the soup. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Combine Ingredients: Return the beef to the pot. Add the beef broth, diced tomatoes (undrained), potatoes, green beans, broccoli, thyme, and rosemary. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1.5-2 hours, or until the beef is very tender.
4. Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
Tips for the Best Beef Vegetable Soup:
- Slow and Low is Key: Simmering the soup for a longer period allows the flavors to meld and the beef to become incredibly tender.
- Vegetable Variety: Don't be afraid to experiment with other vegetables! Corn, peas, zucchini, and mushrooms all make delicious additions.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Make it Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner.
- Freezing for Later: This soup freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely before storing in airtight containers.
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This recipe incorporates relevant keywords such as "beef vegetable soup," "recipe," "hearty," "healthy," "easy," and "weeknight dinner." The use of these terms throughout the content naturally enhances search engine optimization (SEO). Semantic integration is achieved through the inclusion of related terms like "slow-cooked," "flavorful," "nutritious," and "comforting," enriching the overall context and improving search engine understanding. The step-by-step instructions and tips provide additional value, encouraging users to spend more time on the page, which is another important ranking factor.
Enjoy your delicious and SEO-friendly beef vegetable soup!
