Optional Additions
– **1 cup green beans**, cut into pieces
– **1 cup zucchini**, chopped
– **1 cup parsnips** or **sweet potatoes**, diced
– **1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce** for extra umami
– **1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika** for a smoky flavor
– **1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes** for a bit of heat
– **1/4 cup fresh parsley** or **basil**, chopped, for garnish
– **1/4 cup frozen spinach** for added greens
– **1 tablespoon tomato paste** for depth of flavor
Tips for Success
1. **Brown the Beef First**: Browning the beef in olive oil before adding the broth gives the soup a rich, deep flavor. Don’t skip this step—it’s key to developing the soup’s base flavor.
2. **Use Quality Broth**: The broth is the foundation of your soup. Opt for a low-sodium beef broth to control the salt content, or use homemade broth for an even richer taste.
3. **Simmer Slowly**: Allow the soup to simmer for at least 30-45 minutes to ensure the beef becomes tender and the flavors meld together. You can also let it simmer longer for more depth.
4. **Cut Vegetables Uniformly**: For even cooking, make sure your vegetables are cut into similar-sized pieces.
5. **Adjust Seasonings**: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. If it needs more depth, add a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce.
Instructions
1. **Brown the Beef**: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat and brown on all sides (about 5-7 minutes). Remove the beef and set it aside.
2. **Sauté the Vegetables**: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
3. **Add Liquids and Seasonings**: Return the beef to the pot. Add the beef broth, water, diced tomatoes, thyme, basil, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
4. **Simmer**: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer, uncovered, for 30 minutes to allow the beef to become tender.
5. **Add Vegetables**: Add the diced potatoes, carrots, celery, peas, and corn. Stir and continue to simmer for another 20-30 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
6. **Taste and Adjust**: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed. If you’d like a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes in the soup with a spoon.
7. **Serve**: Remove the bay leaf before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired.
Description
This **Easiest Vegetable Beef Soup Ever** is a straightforward, nourishing dish that combines tender beef, a variety of vegetables, and a flavorful broth. The soup is hearty without being heavy, thanks to the balance of vegetables and lean beef. The slow simmering process ensures all the flavors meld together, resulting in a deeply satisfying, savory meal. Each spoonful offers a mix of beefy goodness, tender vegetables, and aromatic herbs. It’s the ideal dish for when you need something quick, easy, and filling.
Nutritional Information
(Per serving, assuming 6 servings)
– **Calories**: 300
– **Fat**: 14g
– Saturated Fat: 5g
– **Carbohydrates**: 30g
– Fiber: 6g
– Sugar: 7g
– **Protein**: 20g
– **Cholesterol**: 60mg
– **Sodium**: 450mg
– **Potassium**: 950mg
– **Calcium**: 6% DV
– **Iron**: 20% DV
*Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredient brands and modifications to the recipe.*
Conclusion
The **Easiest Vegetable Beef Soup Ever** is a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s quick to make, nutritious, and filled with flavors that develop beautifully as the ingredients simmer together. This soup is a flexible recipe, allowing you to add or substitute ingredients based on what’s available in your pantry or what’s in season. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing for a week of easy meals, this soup is a satisfying and delicious option that won’t disappoint.
Recommendation & Embracing Healthful Indulgence
While this vegetable beef soup is already a healthy option, you can make it even more nutritious by using lean cuts of beef like sirloin or round steak, or by incorporating more fiber-rich vegetables like spinach or kale. To cut down on sodium, use low-sodium broth and skip the added salt, relying on herbs and spices for flavor. If you prefer a lighter soup, swap out some of the potatoes for cauliflower or zucchini. Embrace the joy of simple, nourishing meals, and enjoy a bowl of this warming soup guilt-free!
