Moms Old Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe
There is something truly comforting and heartwarming about Moms Old Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe. It’s that nostalgic, cozy bowl of goodness that brings family and friends together around the table. Packed with tender chunks of beef, a colorful mix of fresh vegetables, and a rich, savory broth, this soup captures the essence of homemade love with every spoonful. Whether you’re warming up on a chilly day or just craving a soulful meal, this timeless vegetable beef soup is sure to become your go-to recipe for satisfying hunger and soothing the soul.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may seem simple, but each one plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and colors in Moms Old Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe. From the hearty beef to the vibrant vegetables, they come together to make this soup a comforting masterpiece.
- 1½ pounds beef stew meat or chuck roast: The star protein that becomes tender and flavorful after slow cooking.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps to brown the beef and adds a subtle richness to the base.
- 1 medium onion (diced): Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Gives a fragrant, savory boost to the soup.
- 4 cups beef broth: Provides that rich, meaty flavor essential to a good beef soup.
- 2 cups water: Balances the broth for the perfect soup consistency.
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice): Brings acidity and brightness to the dish.
- 3 carrots (sliced): Adds sweetness and a touch of earthiness.
- 2 celery stalks (sliced): Provides a subtle crunch and aromatic flavor.
- 2 potatoes (peeled and diced): Makes the soup hearty and filling with creamy texture when cooked.
- 1 cup green beans (cut into 1-inch pieces): Adds fresh green color and a slightly crisp bite.
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen): Contributes sweetness and vibrant yellow color.
- 1 cup peas (frozen or fresh): Delivers a pop of sweetness and a soft texture.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds an herbaceous note that complements beef perfectly.
- 1 bay leaf: Infuses subtle complexity during simmering.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances and balances all flavors.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild spice kick.
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional): Provides a fresh, bright finish to the dish.
How to Make Moms Old Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Adding the beef in batches allows each piece to brown beautifully, creating a caramelized crust that locks in flavor. This step is crucial because it builds a deep, rich foundation for the soup that you’ll taste in every bite.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Once the beef is browned and set aside, add diced onion to the pot and cook it until soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes. This softening releases the onion’s natural sweetness, which pairs so well with the garlic you add next—just a quick 30 seconds to let those aromas bloom without burning.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Seasonings
Return the browned beef to the pot and pour in the beef broth, water, and canned diced tomatoes with their juice. Stir in dried thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a boil before reducing the heat to low. Now, cover and let that simmer gently for an hour so the flavors meld beautifully and the beef tenderizes to perfection.
Step 4: Add Root Vegetables
After the hour has passed, it’s time to add the carrots, celery, and potatoes. These veggies take a little longer to cook and absorb the savory broth’s goodness. Let the soup simmer for another 25 to 30 minutes until all the vegetables are tender and flavorful.
Step 5: Finish with Greens and Sweetness
Finally, stir in the green beans, corn, and peas. These add fresh color and texture, cooking just about 10 minutes so they stay vibrant and a little crisp. Remove the bay leaf, taste for seasoning, and adjust salt or pepper if needed—this final touch makes all the difference.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle your homemade soup into bowls and if you like, sprinkle with chopped parsley for that pretty pop of green. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers for a meal that feels like a warm hug.
How to Serve Moms Old Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe
Garnishes
While optional, a sprinkling of fresh chopped parsley adds brightness and a lovely color contrast that makes your soup even more inviting. For an extra cozy touch, a dollop of sour cream or grated cheese works wonders if you want to get a bit creative.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs perfectly with rustic, crusty bread that’s perfect for dunking. Garlic bread, warm dinner rolls, or simple crackers are all excellent choices that complement the hearty nature of the soup without overwhelming it.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, serve the soup in individual bread bowls or mason jars at casual gatherings. Another fun idea is to top it with crispy fried onions or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a little smoky surprise that guests won’t forget.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the next day’s meal even more delicious. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Freezing
Moms Old Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently. The texture and flavor hold up well, making it a fantastic make-ahead meal.
Reheating
Reheat soup in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally to warm evenly and avoid sticking. If it’s too thick after refrigeration or freezing, add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up and revive that perfect soup consistency.
FAQs
Can I use a slow cooker to make this soup?
Absolutely! Brown the meat first, then transfer all ingredients to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours. Add the green beans, corn, and peas during the last 30 minutes to keep their freshness intact.
Can I substitute ground beef instead of stew meat?
You can, but the texture will be different. Ground beef breaks down more and makes the soup a little thicker and less chunky. Using stew meat or chuck roast cut into cubes gives a heartier, rustic feel that’s classic in Moms Old Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe.
What can I do if I don’t have fresh vegetables?
Frozen vegetables are a fantastic alternative and often just as nutritious. Just adjust cooking times slightly because frozen veggies tend to cook faster. Canned vegetables also work but try to rinse them to reduce excess sodium.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free beef broth and check canned ingredients for any hidden gluten. It’s a nutritious, hearty option safe for most gluten sensitivities.
How can I make this soup more kid-friendly?
To appeal to picky eaters, chop vegetables into smaller, bite-sized pieces and consider blending a portion of the soup into a smooth puree, then stir the rest back in. Mild seasoning and serving with breadsticks or grilled cheese make it even more kid-approved.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about Moms Old Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe that warms the heart and fills the kitchen with the scent of home. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience that perfect blend of tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and rich broth yourself. It’s a recipe meant to be shared, savored, and made part of your own family traditions. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
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Moms Old Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Nut-Free, Dairy-Free
Description
Moms Old Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is a hearty and comforting American classic that combines tender beef stew meat with a variety of fresh vegetables simmered in a flavorful beef broth. Perfect for chilly days, this homemade soup is rich in protein and packed with wholesome ingredients that come together for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Beef and Broth
- 1½ pounds beef stew meat or chuck roast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with juice
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1 cup peas (frozen or fresh)
Seasonings & Garnish
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches and brown on all sides, which should take about 5–7 minutes in total. Once browned, remove the beef and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion to the pot and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its fragrance.
- Simmer the Broth: Return the browned beef to the pot and pour in the beef broth, water, and diced tomatoes along with their juices. Add dried thyme, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer covered for 1 hour to develop rich flavors and tenderize the beef.
- Add Root Vegetables: After simmering, add sliced carrots, celery, and diced potatoes to the pot. Continue simmering for another 25–30 minutes until the vegetables become tender.
- Finish with Fresh Vegetables: Stir in green beans, corn kernels, and peas. Cook for an additional 10 minutes to warm and soften these vegetables without losing their texture. Remove the bay leaf and taste the soup, adjusting seasoning as needed.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve accompanied by crusty bread or crackers for a complete and comforting meal.
Notes
- This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
- For a quicker version, use leftover roast beef or ground beef instead of stew meat.
- The soup freezes well and can be stored for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
