As the chill of winter creeps in, there’s nothing quite like gathering around a steaming pot of Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup. The first time I let the aromatic mix of sizzling garlic and onions fill my kitchen, I knew I was onto something special. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s an invitation to share warmth and comfort with loved ones.
Imagine tender chunks of melt-in-your-mouth beef, simmered to perfection alongside vibrant vegetables, all nestled in a rich, herb-infused broth that warms your soul. Each spoonful is a celebration of flavors, a delightful blend of hearty goodness that transforms an ordinary evening into something memorable.
Ready to impress your family and break away from the monotony of fast food? This soup is simple enough for a weeknight gathering yet deliciously satisfying for a cozy weekend dinner. Let’s dive into the recipe that turns humble ingredients into a delightful feast!
Why is Vegetable Beef Soup a must-try?
Comforting warmth: The rich broth, combined with tender beef and vibrant veggies, wraps you in a cozy embrace.
Quick prep time: You can whip up this delicious soup in just under two hours without compromising flavor.
Versatility: Customize with seasonal veggies or grains for a unique twist every time you make it.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for sharing, it’s a dish that brings family and friends together around the table.
Freeze-friendly: Make a double batch to enjoy this hearty dish whenever you crave a taste of home, perfect for easy meal prep!
Vegetable Beef Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Olive Oil – For sautéing beef and vegetables. Note: Use a high smoke point oil for searing.
• Stewing Beef (500g/1 lb) – Primary protein, cut into bite-sized cubes; substitution: Chuck or boneless short rib for a tender result.
• Salt and Pepper (1/2 tsp each) – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.
• Onion (1, chopped) – Adds sweetness and depth; substitute with shallots for a milder flavor.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Provides aromatic flavor; fresh is preferred; can substitute with garlic powder.
• Celery (2 stalks, sliced) – Contributes texture and flavor; substitute with fennel for a different taste.
• Carrots (3, sliced) – Provide sweetness and color; substitution: Par-cooked frozen carrots can be used.
• Flour (4 tbsp) – To thicken the broth; substitute with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.
• Beef Broth/Stock (2.5 cups/625ml, low sodium) – Base for the soup providing umami; can use chicken broth for a lighter flavor.
• Red Wine/Guinness/Stout (1.5 cups/375ml) – Adds depth and complexity; non-alcoholic: use 400g canned crushed tomatoes and 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce.
• Water (1.5 cups/375ml) – Provides dilution and balances the broth.
• Tomato Paste (2 tbsp) – Enhances flavor and richness.
• Bay Leaves (2) – Adds aromatic qualities; remember to remove before serving.
• Dried Thyme (1 tsp) – For herbal notes; fresh thyme is a great alternative.
For the Vegetables
• Frozen Peas (1 cup) – Adds sweetness and color; substitute with fresh green beans if available.
• Potatoes (2, cubed) – Adds heartiness to the soup; use waxy potatoes for better texture.
Optional Enhancements
• Butter or Oil (1 tbsp) – For sautéing optional mushrooms.
• Small Mushrooms (200g/6oz, quartered or halved, optional) – Provides umami and textural contrast; can be omitted or substituted with button mushrooms.
Each of these ingredients works together to create the delightful Vegetable Beef Soup that not only nourishes the body but fills the heart with warmth on chilly evenings.
How to Make Vegetable Beef Soup
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Heat the oil: In a large pot, pour in a splash of olive oil over medium heat and allow it to warm up. This is where your soup begins to take shape, and the wonderful aromas of sautéing will soon fill the air!
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Brown the beef: Add the stewing beef cubes, letting them brown aggressively in batches for about 4-5 minutes per side until they develop a beautiful, golden crust. Don’t crowd the pan—this ensures each piece gets that perfect sear. Once browned, set the beef aside.
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Sauté aromatics: In the same pot, toss in the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. The aroma will be entrancing, promise!
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Add veggies: Next, mix in the sliced celery and carrots, cooking them down for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften. Their vibrant colors will brighten up your pot and signal that dinner is approaching!
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Incorporate flour and liquid: Stir in the flour, and start adding the beef broth gradually, along with the red wine (or your alternative) and water. Don’t forget the tomato paste, bay leaves, and dried thyme! Mix everything well to combine, and watch the pot come to life with flavor.
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Simmer the soup: Return the browned beef to the pot, cover it, and let it simmer gently on low heat for about 1 hour and 15 minutes. This slow cooking makes the beef melt-in-your-mouth tender, irresistible!
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Add the heartiness: When the beef is tender, toss in the cubed potatoes and frozen peas. Let the soup simmer uncovered for an additional 20 minutes to allow everything to meld together beautifully. If you’re using mushrooms, now’s the time to fold them in too!
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Final seasoning: Taste your soup, and season it with salt and pepper according to your preference. Ladle the hearty Vegetable Beef Soup into bowls, and enjoy with a hunk of crusty bread on the side if desired.
Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped herbs for a pop of color!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Vegetable Beef Soup Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on this delightful recipe! Tailoring your soup allows for endless flavor possibilities.
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Leftover Roast Beef: Swap stewing beef for any leftover roast you have, making this soup a fantastic way to repurpose Sunday dinner.
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Extra Veggies: Add seasonal vegetables like zucchini or spinach for additional nutrition and a pop of color, bringing even more life to your warm bowl.
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Cooked Grains: Stir in cooked grains such as barley or quinoa for added texture and heartiness, turning your soup into a fulfilling meal.
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Spicy Kick: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or fresh jalapeños to introduce some spice and heat, perfect for those who love a little zing in their dishes.
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Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a rich, silky finish that elevates the broth to a new level of indulgence.
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Herb Infusion: Swap dried thyme for a bouquet of fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an aromatic twist that brightens the flavors and enhances freshness.
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Vegan Option: Substitute beef with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a hearty, satisfying vegan take on this classic soup. Enjoy the earthy richness!
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Umami Boost: Incorporate soy sauce or a splash of balsamic vinegar to deepen the umami flavor, creating a complex broth that surprises the taste buds.
Embrace these variations to create a Vegetable Beef Soup that’s uniquely yours!
Tips for the Best Vegetable Beef Soup
- Use Dry Beef: Ensure beef is patted dry before browning to achieve a nice crust, enhancing the flavors in your Vegetable Beef Soup.
- Don’t Skip the Sear: Browning the beef is essential for flavor development, so resist the urge to skip this step for tender, tasty meat.
- Adjust Simmer Time: Monitor the simmering time based on the beef’s tenderness; tougher cuts may require a bit longer while cooking for optimal results.
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste your soup before serving, and feel free to tweak the seasoning so it perfectly fits your family’s preference.
- Vegetable Variability: Fold in seasonal vegetables like zucchini or leafy greens to increase nutritional value and flavor dynamics, keeping your Vegetable Beef Soup fresh and exciting!
- Make It Ahead: This soup stores wonderfully in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for meal prep. Consider doubling the batch for convenience!
Make Ahead Options
These Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can chop the vegetables, season the beef, and even cook the soup up to 24 hours in advance. After preparing, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container to refrigerate. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat on the stove over medium heat, and taste for seasoning adjustments. If you’d like to make it even easier, you can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months; just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. This way, you’ll have a nourishing and comforting meal at your fingertips, ready in no time!
How to Store and Freeze Vegetable Beef Soup
Fridge: Keep your hearty Vegetable Beef Soup in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing for optimal freshness.
Freezer: Freeze portions of the soup in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Be sure to leave some space for expansion as it freezes.
Reheating: To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth if the soup is too thick.
Make-ahead: Consider making a double batch to enjoy this comforting dish whenever you want a taste of home, making meal prep a breeze!
What to Serve with Vegetable Beef Soup?
Enhance your cozy meal experience by pairing this heartwarming soup with delightful sides and beverages.
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Crusty Bread: Nothing beats a warm, crusty loaf to mop up every last drop of that delicious broth. It’s the perfect vessel for savoring the rich flavors!
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Simple Side Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette contrasts beautifully with the hearty soup, adding freshness to your meal.
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Garlic Bread: Indulge your senses with buttery, garlic-infused breadsticks, complementing the savory warmth of the soup and perfect for dipping.
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Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans seasoned with lemon zest provide a delightful crunch and vibrant color, balancing the meal perfectly.
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Savory Scones: Flaky, cheesy scones are an inviting addition that puts a fun twist on traditional pairings, delightfully complementing the soup’s comforting flavors.
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Sweet Cornbread: This scrumptious, slightly sweet cornbread adds a homey appeal while its crumbly texture mingles beautifully with the soup.
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Hot Tea or Mulled Wine: Sip on herbal tea or mulled wine to bring a cozy ambiance to your dining experience, offering warmth and soothing flavors.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: For a sweet ending, enjoy warm, gooey chocolate chip cookies that create a delightful contrast to the savory soup and leave everyone smiling.
Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right beef for my soup?
Absolutely! For the best results, use stewing beef such as chuck or boneless short rib. These cuts are both tender and flavorful when simmered. Look for meat that is bright red, with a good amount of marbling, which indicates tenderness and richness. Avoid any cuts with excessive dark spots or gristle.
How can I store leftover Vegetable Beef Soup?
Very simple! Place your cooled soup in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. Just ensure it’s completely cooled before sealing to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stove until hot.
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Can I freeze Vegetable Beef Soup?
Of course! This soup freezes beautifully. Transfer your soup into freezer-safe bags or containers, making sure to leave some space for expansion (about an inch is ideal). It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on low heat in a pot, adding a splash of broth if needed for consistency!
What if the soup turns out too thick?
No worries! If you find your soup thicker than desired, you can easily fix it. Add a bit of beef broth or water gradually while stirring until you reach your preferred consistency. It’s a simple fix, and your Vegetable Beef Soup will still be delicious!
Can I make this soup ahead of time for meal prep?
Absolutely! This soup is perfect for meal prep. You can make a double batch and store it in the fridge or freezer. In fact, the flavors meld beautifully overnight, often making the soup even tastier the next day. Simply refrigerate for 4-5 days or freeze for up to 3 months as outlined.
Is this soup suitable for my dietary needs or allergies?
Yes, it can be quite versatile! If you have specific dietary needs, consider substituting ingredients. For a gluten-free version, replace flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. You can also choose low-sodium broth to control sodium intake. Always check labels for potential allergens, especially if using pre-packaged ingredients like broth or spices.
Ultimate Vegetable Beef Soup for a Cozy Night In
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, pour in a splash of olive oil over medium heat and allow it to warm up.
- Add the stewing beef cubes, letting them brown in batches for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden.
- In the same pot, toss in the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Mix in the sliced celery and carrots, cooking for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Stir in the flour, and start adding the beef broth, red wine, and water. Add the tomato paste, bay leaves, and dried thyme!
- Return the browned beef to the pot, cover, and let it simmer on low heat for about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- When the beef is tender, toss in the cubed potatoes and frozen peas. Simmer uncovered for an additional 20 minutes.
- Taste your soup, and season with salt and pepper according to preference.