Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe – Hearty, Healthy & Full of Flavor

Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s a heartwarming bowl of nostalgia that takes you back to cozy family dinners. I remember the inviting aroma wafting through the house on chilly evenings when my mother would simmer this comforting soup on the stove. Filled with hearty vegetables and tender meat, it’s the kind of dish that wraps you in warmth with every spoonful. Join me as we delve into this beloved family recipe, perfect for a cozy night in.

Origin of the vegetable beef soup Recipe

This wholesome recipe has been passed down through generations, deeply rooted in the traditions of home-cooked meals that bring families together. The origins of vegetable soup can be traced back to many cultures, but Mom’s version was always uniquely American, with its own special selection of ingredients that resonated with our family history.

The beauty of this soup lies in its versatility, adapting to whatever vegetables are on hand or in season. Each ingredient is carefully selected to heighten the flavor, making it a staple for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Growing up, I learned that the joys of cooking often lie in simplicity and the love infused into each meal. In our home, this soup was a comforting constant, always on the table when a hearty meal was needed.

Mom would often say that there’s nothing quite like a bowl of homemade soup to make you feel grounded and cared for. It was a reminder that good food doesn’t need to be complicated; it just needs to be made with heart. Many of us have our own variations on this classic dish, and while they may differ slightly, the essence remains the same, a warm, nourishing meal to be shared with loved ones. You might also like to explore making comforting vegetable soups, bursting with flavor.

Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

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A heartwarming soup filled with hearty vegetables and tender meat, perfect for cozy family dinners.

• Total Time: 90 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

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• 1 lb beef (chuck or stew meat), cut into cubes
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 1 cup potatoes, diced
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1 cup onion, chopped
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• 2 cups green beans, chopped
• 1 cup corn (optional)

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Instructions

1. Combine the meat, beef broth, and water in a large pot. Bring to a boil.
2. Add the diced vegetables: carrots, potatoes, celery, onion, diced tomatoes, garlic, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 1 hour.
4. Incorporate the green beans and corn (if using) and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes.
5. Taste and adjust the seasoning before serving hot.

Notes

Serve with crusty bread for dipping. This soup is flexible – feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasonings.

• Author: James Walker
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 75 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 50mg

Why this vegetable beef soup recipe works

Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is a timeless recipe that works for several reasons, ensuring that it’s a go-to dish for families everywhere. These ingredients complement each other seamlessly, creating a depth of flavor that is nothing short of comforting.

Hearty Ingredients

The combination of fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and potatoes, along with tender meat, is a match made in culinary heaven. Each ingredient serves a specific purpose, vegetables add nutrition and color while the meat provides richness and heartiness. To ensure a balanced flavor profile, using a mix of beef broth and water helps to create a deep, savory base.

The Right Cooking Technique

Simmering the soup at a low temperature allows the flavors to meld beautifully. This patient cooking method breaks down the meat, making it tender and juicy, while also infusing the broth with all the delicious flavors from the vegetables and herbs. It’s the kind of comforting cooking that soothes the soul and invites you to unwind after a long day.

Adjustable Seasoning

Another reason this recipe resonates is its flexibility. You can easily adjust the seasoning to suit your taste, whether that means increasing the amount of garlic for a bolder flavor or adding more salt and pepper for deeper warmth. The dried herbs, thyme and oregano, are perfect for enhancing the overall aroma and taste, making each bowl a delightful experience. If you’re interested, you can also explore the nutritional benefits of homemade soups and broths on this post..

Step-by-Step Instructions + Tips

Making Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is straightforward, ensuring that anyone can whip it up with minimal fuss. Here’s a detailed guide to help you bring this family favorite to life.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before you start, gather all of your ingredients. This will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

Cooking Steps

1. Begin by combining the meat, beef broth, and water in a large pot. Bring it to a boil to start tenderizing the meat. This is also when the delicious aroma will start filling your kitchen, preparing you for the warmth of this soup.

2. Add in the diced vegetables: carrots, potatoes, celery, onion, diced tomatoes, garlic, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together, ensuring the meat is well coated with the herbs and seasonings.

3. Once everything is mixed in, reduce the heat and let it simmer. You’ll want to keep it at a low boil for about an hour. This allows the beef to become tender and lets all those delightful flavors blend seamlessly.

4. After an hour, it’s time to incorporate the green beans and corn (if using). Cook for an additional 15 to 20 minutes. This step will keep your vegetables vibrant and satisfying in texture.

5. Lastly, taste and adjust the seasoning. Sometimes a pinch more salt or pepper will elevate the flavors just right. You want a comforting finish that invites you back for seconds!

Remember to serve the soup hot, maybe alongside some crusty bread for dipping. For an additional cozy feeling, consider making smothered potatoes as a side dish!

Variations & Serving Ideas

This recipe is incredibly flexible and allows for numerous adaptations based on your preferences or what you have on hand. You can get creative and try out various additions and substitutions.

Try Different Vegetables

If you have leftover veggies in your fridge, feel free to toss them in! Green peas, bell peppers, or even zucchini can enhance the soup’s flavor and nutritional value. Just chop them up into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. You might also consider making a delightful mushroom soup as a variation!

Make it a Slow Cooker Recipe

If you prefer a hands-off approach, this soup can easily be adapted for a slow cooker. Simply toss all the ingredients into the slow cooker and set it on low for 6-8 hours. This will give the ingredients plenty of time to meld together beautifully while you go about your day.

Creative Serving Suggestions

To elevate your serving experience, consider garnishing each bowl with freshly chopped herbs or a sprinkle of cheese. A dollop of sour cream can also add a delightful creaminess to each bite. I love pairing it with a fresh green salad or some homemade garlic bread to complete the meal.

Final Thoughts

Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is more than just a recipe, it’s a cherished tradition that represents comfort and family. Every recipe has a story, and this particular dish carries with it warm memories of family gatherings and delicious moments spent around the dinner table. I encourage you to make it your own by adding personal touches or family favorites, ensuring that it becomes a beloved dish for your family as well.

Whether it’s a cold winter night or an easy weeknight dinner, this soup is sure to bring joy and warmth to your home. Enjoy every mouthful, and know that you’re creating memories that will be treasured for years to come. For more inspiration and recipe ideas, consider visiting our blog page for delightful new dishes to try. Don’t forget to explore my Pinterest for visually enticing food ideas!

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