Hearty Beef and Vegetable Soup
A comforting and nourishing soup filled with tender beef and fresh vegetables, perfect for chilly evenings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb beef stew meat Look for chuck or round cuts; they become tender with slow cooking.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil Used for browning the meat; adds a rich flavor.
- 1 medium onion, diced For that classic flavor base.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic adds depth; feel free to increase for a bolder taste.
- 3 medium carrots, sliced Sweetness from carrots balances the savory broth.
- 2 stalks celery, sliced For crunch and flavor.
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut Fresh or frozen work wonders here.
- 4 cups beef broth Homemade broth is ideal; store-bought works too.
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes For acidity and bright color; fire-roasted adds an extra kick!
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme A hint of earthiness; feel free to add fresh if available.
- to taste none Salt and pepper Essential seasonings that elevate the soup.
- 1 cup frozen peas Added at the end for a burst of sweetness and color.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the beef stew meat, seasoned with salt and pepper, and brown on all sides.
- Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
- In the same pot, add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic, carrots, and celery, cooking for another 5 minutes.
Cooking
- Add the browned beef back to the pot along with the green beans, beef broth, diced tomatoes, and dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes.
- In the final five minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen peas, allowing them to heat through.
- Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
Notes
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This soup also freezes beautifully! Rest the meat after browning to keep it juicy and use fresh herbs at the end for added brightness.