Melt-in-your-mouth chunks of beef combined with a variety of vegetables make this Vegetable Beef Soup a perfect dish for any occasion. The secret ingredient, whether it’s wine or beer, adds an extra depth of flavor that elevates the broth. This soup is hearty and comforting, making it ideal for chilly evenings or family gatherings. Enjoy the satisfying combination of tender beef and fresh vegetables in every bowl!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and Filling: This soup is packed with protein and vegetables, making it a complete meal in one bowl.
- Flavorful Broth: The addition of red wine or stout transforms the broth into a rich, savory experience.
- Easy to Prepare: With just 20 minutes of active cooking time, this recipe is straightforward enough for any home cook.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
- Perfect for Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare this delicious Vegetable Beef Soup, you will need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Heavy-based pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Heavy-based pot: This ensures even heat distribution when browning the beef and simmering the soup, preventing burning.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware while also providing good control during cooking.
Ingredients
- 1.5 tbsp olive oil, separated
- 500g/1 lb stewing beef, cut into 1.75cm / 2/3 cubes (Note 1)
- 1/2 tsp salt and pepper
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 garlic, minced (1 tbsp)
- 2 celery, cut into 0.8 cm / 1/3 slices
- 3 carrots, cut into 0.5 cm / 1/5 thick slices (halve larger ones)
- 4 tbsp flour
- 2 1/2 cups (625ml) beef broth/stock, low sodium
- 1 1/2 cups (375ml) dry red wine, Guinness beer or stout (Note 2)
- 1.5 cups (375ml) water
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp thyme dried
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 potatoes, cut into 1.5cm / 2/3 cubes
- 1 tbsp (15g) butter or oil
- 200g/6oz small mushrooms, quartered or halved
How to Make Vegetable Beef Soup (Fall apart beef!)
Step 1: Heat Oil
Heat 1 tbsp oil until very hot in a large, heavy-based pot over high heat.
Step 2: Prepare Beef
Pat beef dry with paper towels, then sprinkle it with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Brown Beef
Brown beef aggressively in two or three batches, adding more oil if needed. Remove browned beef into a bowl after each batch.
Step 4: Sauté Vegetables
If the pot looks dry, add a touch more oil. Add garlic and onion to the pot; cook for about two minutes until fragrant.
Step 5: Add Carrots and Celery
Add carrot and celery; cook for another two minutes or until the onion is translucent.
Step 6: Incorporate Flour
Stir in flour gradually, then slowly pour in beef broth while constantly stirring to avoid lumps.
Step 7: Add Liquids and Seasonings
Add beer, water, tomato paste, bay leaves, and thyme; stir well before returning the browned beef back into the pot.
Step 8: Simmer
Cover the pot, adjust heat to medium-low so it’s gently bubbling. Let it simmer for about one hour and fifteen minutes or until the beef is tender.
Step 9: Add Potatoes and Peas
Add potatoes and peas to the pot; simmer uncovered for a further twenty minutes. Stir in cooked mushrooms in the last five minutes of cooking.
Step 10: Adjust Seasoning
The soup is ready when potatoes are cooked through and beef is very tender. Adjust salt and pepper to taste as desired.
Step 11: Serve
Ladle into bowls. Sprinkle with parsley if desired, serving with crusty bread like Cheesy Garlic Bread or Irish Soda Bread!
How to Serve Vegetable Beef Soup (Fall apart beef!)
Serving Vegetable Beef Soup is an experience that enhances its comforting nature. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or enjoying a cozy meal alone, elevating your soup with the right accompaniments makes all the difference.
With Crusty Bread
- A thick slice of crusty bread pairs perfectly for dipping into the rich broth, soaking up every bit of flavor.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Sprinkling fresh parsley or thyme on top not only adds color but also enhances the aroma and flavor profile of the soup.
Accompanied by Cheese
- Adding freshly grated cheese, such as Parmesan or Cheddar, brings a creamy texture and a delightful sharpness to each bowl.
Served with a Side Salad
- A light side salad can balance the hearty nature of the soup. Consider a simple green salad tossed with a vinaigrette.
In a Bread Bowl
- For an extra special treat, serve the soup in a bread bowl for both presentation and taste, allowing diners to enjoy the flavors of both bread and broth.
How to Perfect Vegetable Beef Soup (Fall apart beef!)
Perfecting Vegetable Beef Soup requires attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to make your soup truly outstanding:
Use quality beef – Selecting high-quality stewing beef ensures tender and flavorful chunks that fall apart beautifully in your soup.
Don’t rush browning – Taking the time to brown the beef well adds depth to the flavor. Ensure your pot is hot enough before adding the meat.
Stir frequently – When adding liquids, stir continuously to incorporate everything thoroughly and prevent lumps from forming.
Adjust seasoning gradually – Taste as you go! Add salt, pepper, and herbs gradually to find that perfect balance of flavors.
Let it simmer longer – If time allows, simmering longer helps meld flavors together and tenderizes the meat even more. Just keep an eye on liquid levels!
Best Side Dishes for Vegetable Beef Soup (Fall apart beef!)
Pairing side dishes with your Vegetable Beef Soup can enhance your meal significantly. Here are some delicious options:
Garlic Bread – Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread is perfect for sopping up leftover broth.
Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks – These cheesy delights are easy to make and add a satisfying bite alongside your soup.
Simple Green Salad – A fresh salad with mixed greens provides contrast in texture and freshness, enhancing every spoonful of soup.
Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins are a classic accompaniment that balances out the savory flavors of the soup wonderfully.
Roasted Vegetables – A mix of roasted carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers can add more nutrients while complementing the soup’s flavors.
Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs can be a fun addition for those who crave something crunchy alongside their warm bowl of soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Vegetable Beef Soup (Fall apart beef!), it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish. Here are some tips to keep in mind.
- Not browning the beef properly: Failing to brown the beef well can result in a dull flavor. Make sure to brown the meat in batches to achieve a deep, rich color and taste.
- Skipping the herbs and spices: Herbs and spices are essential for a flavorful soup. Don’t skip adding thyme or bay leaves; they enhance the broth significantly.
- Overcooking vegetables: Overcooked vegetables can become mushy. Add them at the right time according to their cooking times for optimal texture.
- Using too much salt early on: Seasoning too early can lead to overly salty soup as it reduces while simmering. Add salt gradually and adjust at the end.
- Neglecting to taste as you go: Failing to taste during cooking can lead to an imbalanced flavor. Regularly sample your soup and adjust seasoning as needed.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Vegetable Beef Soup (Fall apart beef!) in an airtight container.
- It will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Vegetable Beef Soup (Fall apart beef!)
- Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
- The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Vegetable Beef Soup (Fall apart beef!)
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power, stirring occasionally until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring often until hot throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about preparing Vegetable Beef Soup (Fall apart beef!).
Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can substitute other meats like chicken or pork if you prefer. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
How can I thicken my soup further?
To thicken your soup more, you can add cornstarch mixed with water or additional flour while cooking.
Is this soup healthy?
Absolutely! This soup is packed with nutrients from vegetables and lean beef, making it a wholesome meal option.
What should I serve with Vegetable Beef Soup (Fall apart beef!)?
Serve it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that’s comforting and satisfying.
Final Thoughts
This Vegetable Beef Soup (Fall apart beef!) is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spices based on your preference. It’s perfect for cozy nights or feeding a crowd. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy its rich flavors!
Vegetable Beef Soup
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Vegetable Beef Soup featuring melt-in-your-mouth chunks of tender beef and an abundance of fresh vegetables. The addition of red wine or stout infuses the broth with a rich, savory flavor, making each bowl an experience to savor. Perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, this hearty soup is not only filling but also easy to prepare, taking just 20 minutes of active cooking time. Enjoy its versatility by swapping in your favorite veggies or using leftovers for an even tastier meal the next day.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour and 35 minutes
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1.5 tbsp olive oil, separated
- 500g/1 lb stewing beef, cut into 1.75cm / 2/3" cubes
- 1/2 tsp salt and pepper
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 garlic, minced (1 tbsp)
- 2 celery, cut into 0.8 cm / 1/3" slices
- 3 carrots, cut into 0.5 cm / 1/5" thick slices
- 4 tbsp flour
- 2 1/2 cups (625ml) beef broth/stock, low sodium
- 1 1/2 cups (375ml) dry red wine, Guinness beer or stout
- 1.5 cups (375ml) water
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp thyme dried
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 potatoes, cut into 1.5cm / 2/3" cubes
- 1 tbsp (15g) butter or oil
- 200g/6oz small mushrooms, quartered or halved
Instructions
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over high heat.
- Pat the beef dry, season with salt and pepper, and brown in batches. Set aside.
- Sauté onion and garlic for 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add celery and carrots; cook until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in flour, then gradually add beef broth while stirring to avoid lumps.
- Incorporate wine, water, tomato paste, bay leaves, and thyme; return browned beef to the pot.
- Simmer covered for 1 hour and 15 minutes until beef is tender.
- Add potatoes and peas; simmer uncovered for another 20 minutes. Stir in mushrooms last 5 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning as needed before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
