Easy Vegetable Beef Soup

by

Easy Vegetable Beef Soup

Introduction

Easy Vegetable Beef Soup is a warm, hearty, and nourishing meal perfect for cozy nights or brisk days. It combines tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and flavorful broth into one comforting pot. Known for its versatility and simplicity, this soup has been a staple in kitchens around the world, appreciated by both busy home cooks and those who love slow, simmered flavors.

Ingredients

For the beef base:

  • 1 lb (450 g) beef stew meat or chuck roast, cubed
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil or olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the soup:

  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups (1 L) beef broth
  • 2 cups water
  • 3 large carrots, sliced
  • 3 potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced
  • 1 cup green beans, trimmed and chopped
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
  • 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) diced tomatoes
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried parsley
  • 1 bay leaf

Instructions & Methods

  1. Brown the beef:
    • Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
    • Season beef with salt and pepper, then sear until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
  2. Sauté aromatics:
    • In the same pot, add onion and cook until softened (about 3 minutes).
    • Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
  3. Build the soup:
    • Return beef to the pot. Add beef broth, water, diced tomatoes, thyme, parsley, and bay leaf.
    • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until beef is tender.
  4. Add vegetables:
    • Stir in carrots, potatoes, celery, and green beans. Simmer for 20 minutes.
    • Add corn and peas, simmer an additional 5–10 minutes until all vegetables are tender.
  5. Final seasoning:
    • Remove bay leaf. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
  6. Serve:
    • Ladle hot soup into bowls. Serve with crusty bread or crackers.

History

Beef and vegetable soup dates back centuries, with variations found in nearly every cuisine. In Europe, hearty beef broths were fortified with root vegetables during colder months. In the U.S., it gained popularity during the 19th century as a way to stretch meat portions and make use of seasonal vegetables.

Benefits

  • Nutrient-rich – packed with protein, vitamins, and fiber.
  • Budget-friendly – uses affordable cuts of beef and common vegetables.
  • Versatile – works with fresh, frozen, or canned vegetables.
  • Freezer-friendly – make a big batch and store for later.

Formation

This soup is built in layers of flavor: searing the beef first locks in savory richness, sautéing onions and garlic adds depth, and simmering with herbs and vegetables creates a hearty, well-balanced broth.

Conclusion

Easy Vegetable Beef Soup is proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s filling, delicious, and adaptable to your taste or what’s in your pantry.

Lovers of This Dish

  • Soup lovers who crave hearty, home-cooked flavors.
  • Families looking for a healthy, complete meal in one pot.
  • People who enjoy batch cooking and meal prepping.

Leave a Comment