- **Beef Broth** - Perfect base for your delicious soup
- **Lean Beef Cubes** - Choose from sirloin or chuck roast for rich flavor
- **Carrots** - Adds natural sweetness and color to the soup
- **Celery Sticks** - Provides a savory note and crunch
- **Onions** - Essential for layering flavors; choose yellow or sweet onions
- **Zucchini** - Fresh, tender vegetables that blend well with other ingredients
- **Bell Peppers (Red, Green, or Yellow)** - Adds vibrant color and slight sweetness
- **Tomatoes (Canned or Diced)** - Boosts the soup's depth of flavor; use organic if preferred
- **Garlic Cloves** - Finely minced to intensify the soup’s aroma and taste
- **Thyme** - A classic herb that complements beef and vegetables
- **Bay Leaves** - Adds a subtle, aromatic note without overpowering the dish
- **Salt and Pepper** - For seasoning; adjust according to your preference
- **Fresh Parsley or Chives** - Optional, for garnishing and extra flavor
- **Red Wine (Optional)** - Enhances depth of flavor; can be omitted for a traditional broth
Incorporate these ingredients into your recipe for an awesome beef vegetable soup that is both flavorful and nutritious.
Steps
### How to Make an Awesome Beef Vegetable Soup
Creating a delicious beef vegetable soup that's both hearty and nutritious is easier than you might think! Follow these detailed steps to make a perfect batch of soup that's sure to become a family favorite.
#### Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef chuck, cut into small cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chopped carrots (about 4 medium)
- 3 stalks celery, sliced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 8 cups beef broth
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
#### Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. **Prep Your Ingredients**: Start by preparing all the vegetables. Dicing the onion, mincing the garlic, slicing the celery, and chopping the carrots ensures a uniform cook time.
2. **Sauté Vegetables**: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté until they become translucent (about 5 minutes). Add the minced garlic and stir for another minute to infuse the flavor.
3. **Cook Beef**: Increase the heat slightly and add the beef cubes. Cook until the meat is browned on all sides, which should take about 10-12 minutes. This step not only adds flavor but also helps thicken the soup a bit as it cooks down.
4. **Add Vegetables and Broth**: Once the beef is browned, add the chopped carrots and celery to the pot. Stir well to combine with the onions and garlic. Pour in the beef broth, ensuring all ingredients are submerged. Add bay leaves and dried thyme for extra flavor. Bring the soup to a boil.
5. **Simmer**: Reduce heat to low and let the soup simmer gently for about 1 hour or until the vegetables are tender. This long cooking time ensures that the flavors meld together beautifully.
6. **Add Tomatoes and Peas (Optional)**: After an hour, add the diced tomatoes with their juice, breaking them up slightly with a spoon. If desired, stir in the frozen peas during this step for extra texture and color. Simmer for another 15-20 minutes until everything is heated through.
7. **Season to Taste**: Before serving, taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. The beef broth should have a rich flavor that complements the vegetables perfectly.
8. **Serve Hot**: Ladle your delicious beef vegetable soup into bowls and serve immediately while hot. You can garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for an extra touch.
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By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to enjoying a hearty, nutritious beef vegetable soup that will become a regular at your table.