Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
Add the Broth and Seasonings: Return the seared beef to the pot, then add the beef broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together, ensuring that the beef and vegetables are evenly distributed.
Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Let the soup simmer, uncovered, for about 45 minutes, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.
Add the Vegetables: Add the carrots, potatoes, celery, green beans, and corn to the pot. Stir to combine. Continue to simmer for another 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have fully developed.
Taste and Adjust Seasonings: Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preference.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal.
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving Suggestions: Serve this hearty soup with a side of warm bread or crackers for a complete meal. You can also pair it with a fresh salad for extra crunch and nutrition.
Storing Leftovers: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Freezing: To freeze the soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Leave some space at the top of the container to allow for expansion. When reheating, let the soup thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on low heat until hot.
Variants:
Vegetarian Version: Skip the beef and use a combination of your favorite vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers. Replace the beef broth with vegetable broth for a fully vegetarian option.
Add More Protein: If you want to add extra protein to the soup, you can substitute the beef with chicken or add beans such as kidney beans or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes to give the soup a spicy kick. You can also stir in a tablespoon of hot sauce for added heat.
Instant Pot Version: If you prefer a quicker method, use an Instant Pot. Sauté the beef and vegetables using the “Sauté” function, then add the broth, tomatoes, and seasonings. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 25 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally before opening the lid and adding the vegetables.
FAQ:
Can I use other types of meat for this recipe? Yes! While beef stew meat is the most common choice, you can use chicken (boneless thighs or breast) or pork in place of the beef. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the meat you choose.
Can I make this soup ahead of time? Absolutely! This soup actually tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to develop. Simply store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.
What other vegetables can I add to this soup? You can add almost any vegetable to this soup. Consider adding parsnips, turnips, peas, or even spinach for more flavor and nutrition.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried? Yes, you can substitute fresh herbs for dried. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried. For example, use 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme and rosemary instead of 1 teaspoon dried.
How can I thicken the soup? If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can mash some of the potatoes in the soup with a potato masher, or blend a portion of the soup in a blender and return it to the pot. Alternatively, you can add a thickening agent like cornstarch mixed with water.
Conclusion:
This hearty beef and vegetable soup is the perfect comfort food to enjoy on a cold day. With tender beef, a variety of fresh vegetables, and a savory broth, it’s a nutritious and filling meal that the whole family will love. Whether you make it on the stovetop, in an Instant Pot, or as a slow-cooked dish, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
ADVERTISEMENT
