Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce for umami
Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Step-by-Step Recipe: Easy Vegetable Beef Soup
Ingredients:
1 pound stew beef (or ground beef)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 medium carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, chopped
2 medium potatoes, diced
1 cup green beans, chopped
1 cup frozen corn
1 cup frozen peas
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
4 cups beef broth (or more as needed)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1–2 bay leaves (optional)
Instructions:
Sear the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the beef and set it aside.
Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add diced onion and garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 2–3 minutes.
Build the Base: Add the carrots, celery, and potatoes to the pot. Stir to coat with the aromatics. Return the beef to the pot and add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally and add more broth if needed.
Add Remaining Vegetables: Stir in the green beans, corn, and peas. Cook for another 10–15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Remove the bay leaves and taste the soup. Adjust seasoning as needed. Ladle into bowls and enjoy warm with crusty bread or crackers.
Customization Tips
The beauty of vegetable beef soup is that it’s highly adaptable. Here are some ways to make it your own:
1. Change the Protein
Use ground beef for a quicker cooking time.
Substitute beef with chicken, turkey, or even plant-based protein for a lighter option.
2. Add Grains or Pasta
Include pearl barley, rice, or small pasta like orzo or ditalini to make the soup even heartier.
3. Swap Vegetables
Use whatever vegetables you have on hand, such as zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers.
For a seasonal twist, try adding butternut squash or sweet potatoes.
4. Boost the Flavor
Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce, balsamic vinegar, or soy sauce for depth.
Use fresh herbs like parsley or thyme as a garnish.
5. Make it Spicy
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