1. **Brown the beef**: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper. Brown the beef in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Remove and set aside.
2. **Sauté the aromatics**: In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
3. **Add the broth and tomatoes**: Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, basil, and bay leaves. Return the browned beef to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 45-60 minutes, until the beef is tender.
4. **Add the vegetables**: Stir in the potatoes, green beans, corn, and peas. Continue simmering for another 20-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
5. **Season and serve**: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed. Remove the bay leaves. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
**Description**
Vegetable Beef Soup is a perfect balance of tender, flavorful beef and a variety of colorful vegetables, all simmered together in a rich, savory broth. Each bite offers layers of texture—from the hearty chunks of beef and potatoes to the tender carrots and fresh peas. The broth is deeply flavored with the essence of beef, tomatoes, and herbs, making it a satisfying and comforting dish ideal for any time of year.
**Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. 1 cup)**
– Calories: 290
– Protein: 20g
– Carbohydrates: 25g
– Fat: 12g
– Fiber: 5g
– Sodium: 450mg
(Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
**Conclusion**
Vegetable Beef Soup is a nourishing, delicious, and versatile dish that can be tailored to suit any palate. The combination of protein, vegetables, and broth makes it an ideal one-pot meal for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend cooking. The layers of flavor, from the seared beef to the fresh vegetables, make this soup a family favorite, with leftovers tasting even better the next day.
**Recommendation**
Pair Vegetable Beef Soup with crusty bread or cornbread to soak up the rich broth, and serve it alongside a simple green salad for a complete, balanced meal. It also freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep or make-ahead dinners.
**Embracing Healthful Indulgence**
For a more health-conscious version of Vegetable Beef Soup, use lean cuts of beef like sirloin or reduce the amount of oil used for searing. You can also increase the amount of vegetables and replace starchy potatoes with sweet potatoes or additional greens like spinach or kale. For those watching their sodium intake, use a low-sodium broth and adjust the seasoning to your preference. This way, you can enjoy all the heartiness and flavor of the soup while keeping it light and nutritious.
