Introduction
This hearty beef and vegetable soup is a comforting dish perfect for chilly nights. Packed with protein, vegetables, and rich flavors, it makes for a filling meal that is easy to prepare. With its simple ingredients, you can create a delicious one-pot soup that’s sure to warm you up from the inside out.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
1 12-ounce bag frozen mixed vegetables
2 large potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
1 14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes, undrained
5 cups beef broth
1 6-ounce can tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon garlic salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 bay leaf
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
35-40 minutes
Total Time
50-55 minutes
Yield
Serves 6-8
To prepare the soup, start by browning the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat and draining any excess fat. Next, add diced onion and garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent. Then, stir in the frozen mixed vegetables, diced potatoes, undrained diced tomatoes, beef broth, and tomato paste. Season with dried basil, oregano, garlic salt, black pepper, and the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 35-40 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables are tender. Before serving, remember to remove the bay leaf for a delicious, satisfying meal. Enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Make sure to stir occasionally to cook evenly. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the pot to keep the dish from becoming too greasy.
Step 2: Cook the Onion
Add the diced onion to the pot. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Step 3: Add Vegetables and Liquids
Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables, diced potatoes, undrained diced tomatoes, beef broth, and tomato paste. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
Step 4: Season the Soup
Add the dried basil, dried oregano, garlic salt, black pepper, and bay leaf to the pot. Stir well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 5: Cook the Soup
Bring the soup to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 35-40 minutes, or until the potatoes and vegetables are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Before serving, be sure to remove the bay leaf from the soup. This will enhance the flavor and ensure no one accidentally bites into it.
Notes
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This soup also freezes well; to freeze, let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
Variations
Feel free to customize the soup by adding additional vegetables such as carrots or green beans. You can also substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup with crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal. A sprinkle of grated cheese on top can also add a flavorful touch.
Cook techniques
Browning Ground Beef
Browning ground beef is done by cooking it in a hot pan until it turns brown. This process enhances the flavor and provides a rich base for the soup. Be sure to drain excess fat for a healthier result.
Sautéing Onions and Garlic
Sautéing involves cooking ingredients over medium heat in a small amount of oil until they become soft and translucent. This technique helps to release the flavors of onions and garlic, making them aromatic for the soup.
Adding Frozen Vegetables
When adding frozen mixed vegetables to the pot, there is no need to thaw them beforehand. Just stir them in directly, and they will cook through as the soup simmers.
Cubing Potatoes
To ensure even cooking, always dice potatoes into uniform 1/2-inch cubes. This consistent size allows them to soften at the same rate during the simmering process.
Simmering the Soup
Simmering is a gentle cooking method that allows flavors to meld. Once the soup reaches a boil, reduce the heat and cover the pot to maintain a low simmer for optimal tenderness of the vegetables and potatoes.
Removing the Bay Leaf
Always remember to remove the bay leaf before serving the soup. It is not meant to be eaten and can lend a strong flavor if left in the dish.
FAQ
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh vegetables, but you may need to adjust the cooking time as fresh vegetables may cook faster than frozen ones.
What type of beef can I use?
You can use any ground beef, such as ground chuck or lean ground beef, depending on your preference for fat content.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the soup for longer storage.
Can I add more spices or herbs?
Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the spices and herbs according to your taste. Common additions include thyme, rosemary, or red pepper flakes for a kick.
Why is my soup too thick?
If your soup is too thick, simply add more beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Simmer for a few extra minutes to combine.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Conclusion
This hearty beef and vegetable soup is a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. The combination of ground beef, fresh vegetables, and flavorful herbs creates a satisfying meal that warms the soul. It’s easy to prepare and can be adapted to include your favorite ingredients or whatever you have on hand.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetable Beef Stew
Add carrots and celery for additional flavor and texture. Substitute the beef with chunks of beef stew meat for a classic heartiness.
Beef and Bean Chili
Incorporate canned kidney beans or black beans for a protein boost. Spice it up with chili powder and diced jalapeños for a kick.
Shepherd’s Pie
Use the prepared filling as a base, then top with mashed potatoes and bake until golden brown for a delicious twist.
Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Fold in cooked rice to make a filling casserole. Top with cheese and bake until bubbly for a cheesy, comforting meal.
Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry
Opt for a quick stir-fry by using similar ingredients with soy sauce and sesame oil for an Asian-inspired dish that’s ready in minutes.
