Growing up, there was nothing quite like the aroma of my grandma’s old-fashioned vegetable beef soup simmering on the stove. The rich, savory broth, the tender chunks of beef, and the perfectly cooked veggies – it was the ultimate comfort food that could transport me back to my childhood in an instant. Even now, whenever I whip up a batch of this classic recipe, it feels like I’m right back in her cozy kitchen, with the warmth of the soup wrapping me in a hug.
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Why This Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup
What makes this old-fashioned vegetable beef soup so special? It’s all in the details. First and foremost, it’s the quality of the ingredients that really sets this recipe apart. Using a hearty beef chuck roast ensures the meat is perfectly tender and flavorful, while the combination of fresh vegetables – carrots, potatoes, celery, and onions – provides a depth of flavor that can’t be matched by a store-bought broth. But the real magic happens in the simmering process, where the ingredients meld together and the broth develops its rich, comforting taste.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound beef chuck roast, cubed: This cut of beef is well-marbled and tough, which means it’ll become melt-in-your-mouth tender after a good long simmer.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Searing the beef in a bit of olive oil helps to lock in the flavor and create a beautiful caramelized crust.
- 1 large onion, diced: Onions are the foundation of any great soup, providing a subtle sweetness and aroma that permeates the entire dish.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is a must-have for adding depth and complexity to the broth.
- 4 cups beef broth and 2 cups water: The combination of beef broth and water creates a flavorful, well-rounded base for the soup.
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced: Carrots add a lovely sweetness and gorgeous color to the soup.
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed: Potatoes lend heartiness and substance, making this a truly satisfying meal.
- 2 stalks celery, sliced: Celery provides a subtle crunch and freshness that balances out the richness of the broth.
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes: The tomatoes add a touch of acidity and brightness to the soup.
- 1 bay leaf, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, and 1 teaspoon dried oregano: These classic herbs and spices infuse the broth with their signature aromas.
Step-by-Step Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup Instructions
Preparing Your Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup
Prep time for this old-fashioned vegetable beef soup is just 15 minutes, and the total cooking time is 35 minutes, for a total of 50 minutes from start to finish. You’ll need a large pot or Dutch oven, a cutting board, a sharp knife, and a ladle to get started.
1- Begin by heating the olive oil in your pot over medium-high heat. Add the cubed beef and brown it on all sides, about 5-7 minutes total. This step locks in the flavor and creates a nice sear on the meat.
2- Once the beef is browned, add the diced onion to the pot. Sauté the onion for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s translucent and fragrant.
3- Next, add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for 1 minute, until the aroma is released. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it can quickly become bitter.
4- Pour in the beef broth and water, then add the sliced carrots, cubed potatoes, and sliced celery. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
5- Stir in the can of diced tomatoes, the bay leaf, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6- Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes, then ladle it into bowls and serve hot. This old-fashioned vegetable beef soup is the perfect comforting meal that’s sure to warm you from the inside out.
Pro Tips for Success
- For the most tender beef, be sure to cut the chuck roast into bite-sized cubes before browning. This helps the meat cook through evenly.
- When sautéing the onions, don’t be afraid to let them get a nice caramelized color – this adds incredible depth of flavor to the broth.
- Resist the urge to add too many vegetables. Stick to the classic trio of carrots, potatoes, and celery, as this allows their flavors to truly shine.
- Don’t skimp on the herbs and spices. The bay leaf, thyme, and oregano are essential for creating that quintessential “old-fashioned” flavor profile.
Serving and Storing Your Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup
Perfect Pairings for Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup
This old-fashioned vegetable beef soup serves 6 hearty portions, making it the perfect meal for a cozy family dinner or a chilly winter’s night. To round out the dish, try serving it with a crusty loaf of bread or a simple green salad. For drinks, a glass of red wine or a cold beer would be a wonderful complement to the rich, savory broth.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
One of the best things about this old-fashioned vegetable beef soup is that it just gets better with time. The flavors continue to meld and deepen as the soup sits. You can store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat until hot throughout.
For even easier meal prep, you can make this soup in advance and freeze it for up to 3 months. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until piping hot.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup
Creative Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup Variations
While this classic version of old-fashioned vegetable beef soup is truly hard to beat, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on it:
- For a heartier meal, add in some diced potatoes or a cup of cooked barley or wild rice.
- Swap out the beef for ground turkey or Italian sausage for a leaner protein option.
- Use a mix of fresh and frozen vegetables, like frozen green beans or peas, for added variety.
- Add a splash of red wine or Worcestershire sauce to the broth for extra depth of flavor.
Making Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup Diet-Friendly
To make this old-fashioned vegetable beef soup more diet-friendly, you can try a few simple substitutions:
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free beef broth and skip the flour thickener.
- To make it low-carb, swap the potatoes for cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles.
- For a vegan/vegetarian option, use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and omit the meat entirely, adding extra vegetables or plant-based protein sources like lentils or chickpeas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different cut of beef besides chuck roast?
A: While chuck roast is the traditional choice, you can certainly use other stewing beef cuts like brisket or short ribs. Just be aware that the cooking time may need to be adjusted slightly to ensure the meat becomes tender.
Q: How can I adjust the cooking time for this old-fashioned vegetable beef soup?
A: The total cooking time of 50 minutes (15 minutes prep, 35 minutes cook) is designed to ensure the beef is perfectly tender and the vegetables are cooked through. However, if you prefer your vegetables a bit more al dente, you can reduce the simmering time by 5-10 minutes.
Q: How long will the leftovers keep in the fridge?
A: Leftover old-fashioned vegetable beef soup will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, it can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This old-fashioned vegetable beef soup recipe yields 6 hearty servings. If you’re serving it as a main course, this should be enough for a family of 4-6 people.
Q: What if I don’t have all the spices on hand?
A: The bay leaf, thyme, and oregano are essential for capturing that classic “old-fashioned” flavor. However, if you’re missing one of them, you can simply omit it or substitute with another dried herb you have available.
Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
This homemade Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is a comforting and hearty classic, bursting with tender beef, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful broth. Perfect for a cozy meal on a chilly day.
Ingredients
– 1 pound beef chuck roast, cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 cups water
– 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 stalks celery, sliced
– 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the cubed beef and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion is translucent.
3. Pour in the beef broth and water. Add the sliced carrots, cubed potatoes, sliced celery, diced tomatoes, bay leaf, thyme, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the beef is cooked through.
5. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Notes
For a heartier soup, you can add diced turnips or parsnips. For a thicker consistency, you can mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot. This soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 35
- Category: Salads & Soups Starters
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
This old-fashioned vegetable beef soup is the kind of recipe that warms the soul and brings people together. With its tender chunks of beef, perfectly cooked vegetables, and rich, savory broth, it’s a comforting classic that’s sure to become a new family favorite. So grab your biggest pot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience the magic of this timeless dish. I promise, one spoonful and you’ll be transported right back to grandma’s kitchen. Enjoy!
