Introduction
Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup is a comforting, nourishing classic packed with tender beef, colorful vegetables, and a rich, savory broth. It’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out—perfect for chilly days, family dinners, or whenever you crave wholesome, satisfying comfort food.
Origin
This soup has roots in rustic European and American farmhouse cooking, where inexpensive cuts of beef were slowly simmered with seasonal vegetables to create filling, economical meals. Over generations, it became a staple of home kitchens, valued for both its flavor and practicality.
Cultural Significance
Vegetable beef soup is a symbol of home, care, and resourcefulness. Often made in large pots to feed families or neighbors, it reflects traditions of stretching ingredients, reducing waste, and sharing nourishing meals—especially during colder months.
Ingredients Quantity
- 1½ pounds beef chuck, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 cup green beans, cut
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 bay leaf
Optional Additions
- Peas or lima beans for extra heartiness
- Cabbage or zucchini for added vegetables
- Tomato paste for a richer broth
- Barley or pasta for a thicker soup
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Tips for Success
- Brown the beef well to build deep flavor
- Cut vegetables evenly for uniform cooking
- Simmer low and slow for tender meat
- Taste and adjust seasoning near the end
- Let the soup rest before serving for best flavor
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Brown beef on all sides; remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté onion until softened. Add garlic and cook briefly.
- Return beef to the pot and add beef broth, water, tomatoes, thyme, basil, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes.
- Add carrots, celery, potatoes, green beans, and corn.
- Continue simmering for 30–40 minutes until beef and vegetables are tender.
- Remove bay leaf, adjust seasoning, and serve hot.
Description
This soup is thick, hearty, and brimming with tender chunks of beef and vegetables in a deeply savory tomato-based broth. Each spoonful delivers warmth, comfort, and satisfying flavor.
Nutritional Information (approximate per serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 26g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sodium: 680mg
Conclusion
Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup is a timeless, dependable recipe that brings comfort and nourishment to the table. It’s easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and perfect for feeding a crowd.
Recommendation
Serve with crusty bread, warm rolls, or cornbread for a complete, satisfying meal. This soup also freezes beautifully for future quick dinners.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
With lean beef, abundant vegetables, and a balanced broth, this soup is a wonderful example of wholesome comfort food. Adjust portions, add extra veggies, or reduce sodium to enjoy a meal that’s both indulgent and nourishing.