Easy Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe: A Hearty and Comforting Dish

 Method:

Step 1: Brown the Beef

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef stew meat to the pot and season with salt and pepper.
3. Brown the beef on all sides, ensuring a good sear for extra flavor.
4. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same pot, add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery.
2. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
3. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Broth and Simmer

1. Return the browned beef to the pot.
2. Add the beef broth, water, diced tomatoes, potatoes, thyme, oregano, bay leaf, and a bit more salt and pepper.
3. Stir to combine, bringing the mixture to a boil.

Step 4: Cook the Soup

1. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
2. Allow the soup to simmer for about 45 minutes to an hour, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.

Step 5: Add the Frozen Vegetables

1. Add the frozen corn and green beans to the pot.
2. Continue to simmer the soup for an additional 10 minutes until the frozen vegetables are heated through.

Step 6: Taste and Serve

1. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
2. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Step 7: Enjoy

1. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve it hot.
2. Pair it with crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.

Tips for a Perfect Vegetable Beef Soup:

• Cut the vegetables uniformly: This ensures even cooking and a consistent texture.
• Use low-sodium broth: This gives you better control over the saltiness of the soup.
• Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together.
• Customize it: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables based on what you have on hand. Peas, zucchini, or even spinach can be great additions.