Hearty Beef and Vegetable Soup Recipe

Warm up with this hearty beef and vegetable soup, a nourishing blend of tender beef and vibrant vegetables simmered to perfection. This classic recipe is not only a comforting meal for cold days but also a great way to use up leftover vegetables. Rich in flavor and nutrients, this soup is a wholesome choice for the whole family.

Ingredients:

  • For the Soup:
    • 1 lb (450g) beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    • 1 medium onion, diced
    • 3 cloves garlic, minced
    • 3 carrots, sliced
    • 2 celery stalks, diced
    • 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
    • 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
    • 1 cup potatoes, diced (Russet or Yukon Gold)
    • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
    • 6 cups beef broth (or stock)
    • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
    • 2 teaspoons dried thyme
    • 2 teaspoons dried basil
    • 1 bay leaf
    • Salt and pepper, to taste
    • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Brown the Beef:
    • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat and season with salt and pepper. Brown the beef on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables:
    • In the same pot, add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onions are translucent.
  3. Add Remaining Ingredients:
    • Return the browned beef to the pot. Stir in the chopped bell pepper, green beans, diced potatoes, canned tomatoes (with juice), beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, basil, and bay leaf.
  4. Simmer:
    • Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors meld together. Stir occasionally.
  5. Adjust Seasoning:
    • Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
  6. Serve:
    • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy warm with crusty bread or crackers.

Tips:

  • For extra flavor, you can add a splash of red wine when sautéing the vegetables.
  • Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand. Peas, corn, or spinach make excellent additions.
  • This soup freezes well, so make a big batch and store portions for a quick meal later!

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