There’s something truly heartwarming about a steaming bowl of homemade soup, don’t you think? It instantly transports me back to cozy family dinners around the kitchen table. My favorite kind? Hearty Homemade Old Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup! This recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl. I can vividly recall my grandmother’s kitchen, filled with the aromas of savory beef and fresh vegetables simmering away. The rich, comforting scent would fill the air and make everyone gather around, eager for a taste.
What makes this soup unique is its delightful blend of flavors and textures. The tender beef cubes, the vibrant veggies, and the aromatic herbs come together in perfect harmony. Not to mention, it’s incredibly satisfying and perfect for those chilly days when you need a little pick-me-up. Grab your apron, and let’s dive into making this beautiful bowl of goodness together!
What’s in Hearty Homemade Old Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup?
Beef (Chuck or Stew Meat): This is the star of the show! I typically use chuck or stew meat because it’s well-marbled, which makes for luscious, tender bites after simmering.
Olive Oil: A couple of tablespoons of this liquid gold help to brown the beef and add richness to the soup. Don’t skimp on it; trust me!
Salt and Pepper: Basic, yet essential! These seasoning staples help bring out the flavors in your dish. Make sure to taste as you go.
Onion: A medium onion, chopped, adds a sweet, savory base to the soup. Nothing beats the smell of sautéing onions, right?
Garlic: Two cloves of minced garlic step in to elevate the flavor profile. I like to add a little extra if I’m in the mood—garlic lovers, unite!
Beef Broth and Water: Together they create a warm and rich soup base. Use low-sodium broth to better control the seasoning.
Carrots: Three medium carrots, sliced, give a beautiful pop of color and sweetness. They’re also a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies!
Sweet Corn: Whether fresh or frozen, this adds a nice sweetness and crunch. What’s a soup without corn?
Green Peas: These lovely little gems add a burst of freshness and a bright green color. Plus, they’re packed with vitamins!
Potatoes: Two medium diced potatoes make the soup hearty and filling. They soak up all that delicious flavor as they cook away.
Dried Thyme and Dried Rosemary: These herbs are like a warm embrace for your soup. They introduce depth and a hint of earthiness.
Bay Leaf: Just one bay leaf adds a subtle layer of complexity. Remember to fish it out before serving—it’s not meant to be eaten!
Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley as a garnish not only looks lovely but adds freshness and brightness to the finished dish.
Is Hearty Homemade Old Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup Good for You?
Absolutely! This soup is not only delicious but packed with nutrition. The **beef** provides a hearty dose of protein, critical for muscle growth and repair. **Vegetables** like carrots, peas, and potatoes deliver essential vitamins and minerals, helping keep our immune systems in tip-top shape. The inclusion of **herbs** like thyme and rosemary isn’t just for flavor; they also offer health benefits like anti-inflammatory properties!
One thing to consider is that if you’re trying to watch your sodium intake, opt for low-sodium broth and adjust the added salt accordingly. Additionally, if you’re looking for a lighter version, you could swap out half the beef with more veggies or even beans for that protein boost without as much fat.
Ingredients
– 1 lb beef (chuck or stew meat), cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 cups water
– 3 medium carrots, sliced
– 1 cup sweet corn (fresh or frozen)
– 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
– 2 medium potatoes, diced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– 1 bay leaf
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
This recipe serves 6.
How to Make Hearty Homemade Old Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup?
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the beef with salt and pepper, then add to the pot. Brown the beef on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial; it seals in the moisture and flavor!
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent. Your kitchen is about to smell amazing!
3. Pour in the beef broth and water, then bring the mixture to a boil. Once bubbling, it’s time to reduce the heat to a simmer.
4. Add the sliced carrots, corn, peas, diced potatoes, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Stir to combine. Oh boy, this is where it all comes together!
5. Cover and let the soup simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the flavors meld together. (I usually take this time to watch an episode of my favorite show!)
6. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Cook’s privilege, right?
7. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Garnish each bowl with fresh parsley for an added layer of flavor.
Soup-er Tips and Variations
– Serve the soup warm with crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal that’ll make your heart sing.
– Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Green beans, tomatoes, or celery work great too! Get creative!
– For an even deeper flavor, consider slow-cooking the soup for 6-8 hours on low heat for a hands-off cooking method. You’ll come home to a cozy, aromatic kitchen.
I can’t wait for you to try this Hearty Homemade Old Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup! Once you taste all the rich, savory flavors melded perfectly together, I promise you’ll want to make this a regular in your meal rotation. Share your experiences and any fun variations you try—happy cooking!
