There’s something magical about a bowl of old fashioned vegetable beef soup recipe—the kind that’s been simmering for hours, filling your kitchen with the heartwarming aroma of tender beef, fresh vegetables, and savory spices. This recipe is a nod to the timeless tradition of making soup from scratch, using ingredients that have been passed down through generations. Whether it’s a chilly evening, a family gathering, or simply a craving for comfort, this soup offers a perfect balance of hearty beef and nutritious vegetables. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to make and will leave everyone at the table feeling satisfied.
This old fashioned beef vegetable soup recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves hearty, comforting meals. Packed with vitamins from vegetables, the rich flavor of beef, and a savory broth, it’s not only a meal—it’s a way to nourish both body and soul.
Old Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe
Cuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy6-8
servings20
minutes2
hours280
kcalThis old fashioned vegetable beef soup recipe is a heartwarming classic, made with tender beef, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful broth that will fill your home with comfort and warmth. A perfect meal for chilly days!
Ingredients
1 lb beef stew meat, cut into cubes
4 cups beef broth
2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
1 cup carrots, sliced
1 cup celery, chopped
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup green beans, chopped
1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
Directions
- Brown the Beef: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add beef stew meat and brown on all sides for about 5 minutes.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add onion and garlic to the pot and sauté for 2 minutes until softened.
- Simmer the Soup: Add beef broth, potatoes, carrots, celery, diced tomatoes, green beans, and corn. Stir in thyme and oregano. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the vegetables are tender and the beef is cooked through.
- Season to Taste: Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Beef Choice: For best results, use stew meat that is marbled with fat. This gives the soup a rich and hearty flavor.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to adjust the vegetables based on what you have available, such as adding peas, zucchini, or parsnips for a different twist.
- Leftovers: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days and also freezes well for up to 3 months.
- Beef Broth Substitute: You can use chicken or vegetable broth if you prefer a lighter flavor or don’t have beef broth on hand.
Tips for Perfect Old Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe
- Use the Right Cut of Beef: Choose beef stew meat or chuck roast for a tender, flavorful result. The marbled fat adds richness to the broth and helps make the beef tender after a long simmer. Avoid lean cuts of beef, which can end up dry.
- Simmer Slowly for Flavor: The key to a rich broth is a slow simmer. Allow the soup to cook for at least 1.5 to 2 hours, which will break down the beef and vegetables, enhancing the overall flavor. Don’t rush it; the longer it simmers, the better it tastes!
- Balance the Vegetables: Don’t hesitate to adjust the veggies according to your preferences. This recipe is versatile, so feel free to swap in root vegetables like turnips or parsnips, or even add spinach or kale for an extra boost of nutrients.
- Layer the Seasoning: Start with a simple base of salt, pepper, thyme, and oregano. As the soup cooks, taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking. Adding salt in stages helps prevent the soup from becoming too salty early on.
- Add Pasta or Rice for Extra Comfort: For an even heartier version, you can add small pasta shapes or cooked rice toward the end of cooking. This turns the soup into a complete, filling meal.
Recipe Variants
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a little heat, add a chopped jalapeño, chili flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the soup to give it an exciting spicy twist.
- Tomato-Based: Want a more tangy flavor? Add a can of tomato paste or tomato puree along with the diced tomatoes for a tomato-based broth that pairs wonderfully with the beef and vegetables.
- Slow Cooker Version: For a hands-off approach, this soup can be made in a slow cooker. Brown the beef first, then add all the ingredients into the slow cooker, and cook on low for 6-8 hours. It will be just as delicious, if not better, when cooked slowly over time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes! While beef is traditional in this recipe, you can substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even lamb. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly based on the meat’s texture and size.
Absolutely! This soup freezes beautifully. After it has cooled, portion it into airtight containers and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw and simmer on the stovetop.
Yes, beans are a great addition to old fashioned beef vegetable soup. Add a can of kidney beans, navy beans, or chickpeas for an extra protein boost and more heartiness.
For a complete meal, serve this soup with crusty bread, a side salad, or even cornbread to soak up all the savory goodness. A dollop of sour cream or grated cheese on top makes it even more comforting.
If you enjoyed this old fashioned vegetable beef soup recipe, you might also love our Pineapple Stuffing Recipe—a sweet and salty holiday treat that’s perfect for family gatherings!
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 480mg
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on ingredient brands and substitutions.)
Health Benefits of Old Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup
- Rich in Protein: The beef provides a significant amount of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and immune system support. Protein also keeps you feeling full longer.
- Packed with Vegetables: This soup is loaded with nutrient-rich vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, and peas, offering vitamins A, C, and K. These vegetables support eye health, immune function, and bone health.
- Supports Digestion: The high fiber content from the vegetables aids in digestion and promotes a healthy gut. Fiber also helps maintain steady blood sugar levels and lowers the risk of heart disease.
- Low in Fat: By using lean cuts of beef and trimming off excess fat, this soup is relatively low in fat, making it a heart-healthy option for those monitoring their fat intake.
- Hydration and Detox: The broth, which is rich in water and minerals, helps keep you hydrated while providing essential electrolytes.
This old fashioned vegetable beef soup recipe is the epitome of comfort food—a wholesome, satisfying dish that not only brings warmth but also a nourishing blend of flavors. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or simply to enjoy throughout the week, it’s a timeless recipe that delivers hearty goodness in every bowl. It’s easy to customize, quick to prepare, and perfect for feeding a crowd or storing for later. Plus, with its nutritious vegetables, lean beef, and savory broth, you can feel good about enjoying this meal.
Perfect for those colder months or as a cozy meal any time of year, this soup proves that classic dishes never go out of style. So, grab your ingredients, let it simmer, and savor the deliciousness!
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