Hearty Mom’s Old Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup 🍲🥩🌽

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a comforting and nutritious meal, this vegetable beef soup recipe is the perfect choice. Known as a hearty beef stew in many circles, this classic soup recipe combines tender beef, fresh vegetables, and flavorful broth to create a satisfying dish for any day. Whether you’re looking for a family dinner or meal prep for the week, this vegetable beef broth-based soup is a wholesome option that warms the soul. Get ready to enjoy a slow-cooked, delicious vegetable beef soup that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.

2. Ingredients for Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup

1 lb (450g) beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 large onion, chopped
3 carrots, peeled and diced
3 celery stalks, diced
2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 cup green beans, chopped
4 cups vegetable or beef broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

3. How to Make the Best Vegetable Beef Soup: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the beef stew meat and season with salt and pepper. Sear the beef until browned on all sides, approximately 5-7 minutes. This step enhances the flavor of your hearty beef stew and forms the base for the soup’s rich taste.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Remove the beef from the pot and set aside. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant, creating the aromatic foundation of this classic soup recipe.

Step 3: Add Vegetables and Broth

Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the carrots, celery, potatoes, and green beans. Pour in the vegetable or beef broth, ensuring the ingredients are covered. Toss in the thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, and adjust salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Simmer for Flavor Development

Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let it simmer gently for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors meld perfectly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and check seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Final Touches and Serving

Remove the bay leaf and discard. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Pair this vegetable beef broth dish with crusty bread for a wholesome meal.

4. Storage Tips for Vegetable Beef Soup

Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to maintain its rich consistency.

5. Serving Suggestions and Variations

This vegetable beef soup pairs beautifully with a slice of crusty bread or a fresh side salad. For added flavor, sprinkle with shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream. You can also customize this hearty beef stew by adding other vegetables like peas, corn, or green beans, or making it spicier with a dash of cayenne pepper.

Looking to explore more delicious recipes? Check out this creamy spinach and mushroom pasta or treat yourself with these ultimate chewy chocolate chip cookies.

6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Vegetable Beef Soup

Can I use beef stew meat or ground beef for this vegetable beef soup?

Yes, you can substitute beef stew meat with ground beef for a quicker variation, but the texture and flavor will differ slightly. Stew meat provides a tender, slow-cooked bite consistent with traditional hearty beef stew.

Can I make this soup vegan or vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the beef with hearty plant-based proteins like beans or tempeh, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. Add extra vegetables for flavor and texture.

How long does it take to prepare?

Preparation takes approximately 20-30 minutes, with a cooking time of 1.5 to 2 hours for perfect tenderness and flavor development. It’s a comforting classic soup recipe that rewards patience.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer — Perfect for quick side dishes and reheating leftovers, making this cooking process more efficient.
T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set — This durable cookware set ensures your soup pan is nonstick and easy to clean.
Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo — Ideal for preparing quick, healthy sides or proteins to accompany your hearty soup.

8. Conclusion

This vegetable beef soup recipe is a timeless comfort food that offers rich flavors, wholesome ingredients, and versatility. Whether served on a chilly day or as part of your weekly meal prep, it delivers nourishment and satisfaction in every spoonful. Embrace the tradition of this classic soup recipe and enjoy a hearty, flavorful dish that brings family and friends together. For quick meal solutions and more kitchen inspiration, explore our recommended kitchen tools to elevate your cooking experience.

9. Final Words

Mastering this vegetable beef broth-based soup is easy with the right ingredients and patience. With every batch, you’ll find new ways to customize and perfect this hearty classic soup recipe. Happy cooking!

Hearty Mom’s Old Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup