Hearty Old Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup 🥣🍖🌿

1. Introduction

Welcome to the world of comforting, nourishing vegetable beef soup. This hearty soup is a timeless classic that warms both the body and soul. Perfect for chilly evenings or a filling lunch, this beef vegetable stew combines tender beef, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs for an unforgettable flavor experience. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and customizable. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious vegetable beef soup, full of wholesome ingredients and rich textures.

2. Ingredients for Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup

1 lb (450g) beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 carrots, sliced
3 celery stalks, sliced
2 cups green beans, trimmed
4 cups beef broth
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juice
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
2 bay leaves
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Vegetable Beef Soup

Cooking the Beef

Heat the olive oil in a large stockpot over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef and set aside.

Sautéing Aromatics

In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Adding Vegetables and Beef Broth

Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the carrots, celery, green beans, diced tomatoes (with juice), beef broth, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil over high heat.

Simmering the Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup

Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and flavors meld. Stir occasionally and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

4. Tips for Perfect Vegetable Beef Soup

For a thicker stew, you can add a slurry of cornstarch and water during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
If you prefer a more robust flavor, add a splash of red wine or Worcestershire sauce during simmering.
Use fresh herbs when possible for a more aromatic soup. Dried herbs provide great flavor when added early in cooking.

5. Storage and Reheating Tips

This hearty soup stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also freeze leftover vegetable beef soup in zip-top bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop for best results.

6. Serving Suggestions for Vegetable Beef Soup

Serve this beef vegetable stew hot, garnished with fresh parsley. For an extra hearty meal, pair it with crusty bread or a side of cheesy garlic bread (check out our garlic Parmesan chicken skewers for a perfect pairing). A side of simple green salad also complements the rich flavors beautifully.

7. Frequently Asked Questions about Vegetable Beef Soup

Can I substitute beef with other meats?

Yes, you can replace beef stew meat with chicken, turkey, or plant-based protein for a different twist. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

What vegetables can I add or omit?

Feel free to add potatoes, peas, or corn. Omit any vegetables you dislike or are allergic to. The recipe is very flexible.

How long does it take to prepare this vegetable beef soup?

The active preparation time is about 20-30 minutes, and simmering takes around 1.5 to 2 hours for deep flavor development.

Is this soup freezer-friendly?

Absolutely, it freezes well. Just allow the soup to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers.

8. Kitchen Tools That You Might Need for This Recipe

To make your vegetable beef soup experience even better, consider investing in high-quality kitchen tools:

Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer — perfect for quick meal prep and reheating leftovers, adding convenience and speed.
T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set — ensures even heat distribution and easy cleanup for all your simmering and sautéing needs.

Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo — for grilling your bread or making crispy sides.
Breville Nespresso Vertuo Creatista Espresso & Coffee Maker — enjoy a fresh cup of coffee while preparing your soup.
KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer in Scorched Orange — perfect for mixing and prepping ingredients efficiently.

9. Conclusion

This hearty vegetable beef soup is a comforting and wholesome dish that is perfect for anytime you crave a nourishing meal. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a delicious beef vegetable stew that will satisfy the entire family. Feel free to customize the vegetables and herbs to suit your taste, and enjoy the rich, savory flavors of this timeless classic.

Hearty Old Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup