Beef Vegetable Soup

Step-by-step instructions

Now let’s dive into the cooking method:

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Once hot, add the beef chunks and brown on all sides.
Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant, around 2-3 minutes.
Stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for about 1 minute to deepen the flavors.
Add the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, cut green beans, and red bell pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
Pour in the beef broth and sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, paprika, thyme, and oregano.
Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer, covered, for 60–75 minutes until the beef is tender and the vegetables are perfectly cooked.
Don’t forget to stir occasionally and skim off any excess fat if necessary before serving hot right from the pot!

Best ways to enjoy it

Serving Beef Vegetable Soup is as delightful as making it. For a beautiful presentation, ladle the soup into rustic bowls and top it with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese. Pair it with crusty artisan bread or simple crackers for dipping. If you want to elevate your meal, serve it alongside a crisp green salad or some garlic toasts.

Keeping leftovers fresh

After enjoying this hearty soup, you might find yourself looking at leftovers. Here’s how to store them properly:

Refrigeration: Store the cooled soup in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the soup in portions. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer, but be sure to leave some space in the container for expansion as it freezes.
When reheating, make sure the soup is heated all the way through to ensure effective food safety.

Helpful cooking tips

Here are a few pro chef tips to elevate your Beef Vegetable Soup:

Cut Uniform Pieces: Ensure your vegetable and meat pieces are roughly the same size for even cooking.
Sauté Well: Don’t rush the browning of the meat – a good sear adds depth to the flavor.
Spice it Up: Adjust the seasonings towards the end of cooking to perfect the flavor to your liking.
Add Fresh Herbs: Try tossing in some fresh herbs, like parsley or cilantro, at the end for an aromatic finish.

Creative twists

Feeling adventurous? Consider these variations for a memorable twist on your Beef Vegetable Soup:

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños for heat.
Herbal Infusion: Experiment with herbs like bay leaves or fresh rosemary.
Veggie Lovers: Incorporate different veggies like corn, zucchini, or sweet potatoes for extra flavor and texture.
Homemade Broth: If you have the time, using homemade beef broth can really enhance the taste profile.

FAQs

How long does this recipe take to prepare?

Expect about 15-20 minutes for prep time and about 60-75 minutes for cooking.

Can I use other cuts of beef?

Absolutely! Cuts like brisket or round can work well, but chuck is preferable for its tender results when simmered.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, the ingredients listed are gluten-free. Just be sure to check the labels on your beef broth.

Can I add pasta or rice to the soup?

Yes! Both pasta and rice can make it even heartier. Add them in the last 15-20 minutes of cooking to avoid overcooking.