My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is a heartwarming dish that brings back memories of family gatherings. This comforting soup is perfect for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s not just a meal—it’s a cozy hug in a bowl! Plus, this recipe makes a generous batch, ideal for freezing and enjoying later.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and Filling: My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is packed with protein and vegetables, making it a satisfying meal.
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can have this delicious soup cooking while you go about your day.
- Freezer-Friendly: This recipe yields enough soup to freeze, so you can enjoy it on busy nights without any fuss.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasonings based on your taste preferences.
- Family Tradition: This soup has been passed down through generations, adding a touch of nostalgia to every bowl.
Tools and Preparation
To make My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need to gather for an effortless cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Large pot
- Chopping board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: Perfect for tenderizing the pot roast over several hours, allowing the flavors to develop richly.
- Large pot: Essential for combining all your ingredients and simmering the soup evenly.
- Chopping board: Provides a safe surface for chopping veggies efficiently and cleanly.
- Chef’s knife: A good-quality knife helps with quick and precise chopping of all ingredients.
Ingredients
My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is one of my all-time favorite soup recipes. It’s super simple homemade soup recipe and makes enough to freeze!
Main Ingredients
- 1 pot roast (about 2 pounds)
- 2 russet potatoes, chopped
- 1 bag frozen seasoning blend (or just chopped onions)
- 1 bag frozen peas
- 1 bag frozen green beans
- 1 bag frozen corn
- 4 large carrots, chopped
- 1 (32 oz) container beef broth
- 2 (10.75 oz) cans tomato soup
- 1 can filled with water
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup
Step 1: Season the Roast
- Season the pot roast generously with salt and pepper.
- Place it in your slow cooker along with half a can of beef broth.
- Cook on LOW for about 10 hours until tender.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
- In a very large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped carrots and seasoning blend.
- Sauté until they are tender.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Shred the cooked roast using two forks.
- Add the shredded beef to the large pot along with chopped potatoes and all remaining veggies (peas, green beans, corn).
- Pour in the remaining beef broth, tomato soup, and fill one empty can with water; add that too.
- Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
- Bring everything to a boil over high heat.
- Lower the heat to a simmer and cover the pot.
- Let it cook for about an hour, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Adjust Consistency
If you desire a thinner soup consistency, add more water as needed while it cooks.
This classic recipe is not just about nourishment; it’s about sharing love through food—making My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup perfect for any occasion!
How to Serve My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup
Serving My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is a delightful experience. This hearty soup can be enjoyed in various ways to enhance your meal and satisfy your guests.
With Fresh Bread
- Crusty Baguette: A warm, crusty baguette pairs beautifully with the soup, perfect for dipping.
- Garlic Bread: The rich flavors of garlic bread complement the hearty soup wonderfully.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness.
- Thyme Leaves: Adding thyme brings an aromatic touch that enhances the overall flavor.
With a Side Salad
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides a crunchy contrast to the soft vegetables in the soup.
- Garden Salad: A simple garden salad with vinaigrette makes for a refreshing side.
In a Bread Bowl
- Bread Bowl Presentation: Serve the soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl for a fun and rustic presentation that your guests will love.
How to Perfect My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup
To ensure you make the best version of My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup, here are some helpful tips.
- Use Quality Beef: Choose a well-marbled pot roast for tender meat and rich flavor.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add or substitute your favorite vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand.
- Adjust Seasoning Carefully: Taste as you go, adjusting salt and pepper to enhance flavors without overpowering them.
- Let It Simmer Longer: If time allows, let the soup simmer longer than an hour for deeper flavors and tenderness.
Best Side Dishes for My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup
Pairing side dishes with My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup enhances your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing that adds cheesy goodness alongside the rich soup.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful contrast to the savory flavors.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges are great for dipping into the soup.
- Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers add substance and variety to your meal.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity that balances the soup’s richness.
- Rice Pilaf: Light and fluffy rice pilaf is perfect for soaking up any leftover broth.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup can be a delightful experience, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some tips to help you avoid them:
- Ignoring seasoning early: Seasoning your roast and veggies from the start enhances flavor. Don’t wait until the end to add salt and pepper.
- Using the wrong cut of beef: Selecting a pot roast is essential for tenderness. Avoid lean cuts that may dry out during cooking.
- Overcooking vegetables: Cooking veggies too long can lead to mushiness. Add them at different times based on their cooking requirements.
- Not allowing enough simmer time: Simmering allows flavors to meld. Skipping this step can result in a bland soup.
- Neglecting to taste as you cook: Always taste your soup throughout the cooking process. Adjust seasonings for the best flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Allow the soup to cool before sealing it in containers.
Freezing My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.
- Leave space at the top of containers for expansion.
Reheating My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup
- Oven: Heat at 350°F for about 30 minutes in a covered dish.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 2-5 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup that might help you perfect your recipe.
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh vegetables can be used! Just remember they may require different cooking times.
How do I customize My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup?
Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or even grains like rice or barley for added texture.
What can I serve with this soup?
This hearty soup pairs well with crusty bread, crackers, or a simple salad for a complete meal.
How long does it take to prepare My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup?
The total time is about 11 hours, including 10 hours of slow cooking and 1 hour of simmering on the stove.
Final Thoughts
My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is not just comforting; it’s also versatile and easy to adapt according to your taste. You can add different vegetables or spices based on what you enjoy. Try making this delightful soup today, and experience its warm flavors that remind you of home!
My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup
My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is a heartwarming classic that brings comfort to any table. Packed with tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and rich flavors, this soup is perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a cozy meal. With straightforward preparation and the ability to freeze leftovers, it’s an ideal choice for busy families. Customize it with your favorite veggies for a personal touch, and enjoy the nostalgic warmth of this beloved family recipe.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 hours
- Total Time: 10 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: About 8 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 pot roast (about 2 pounds)
- 2 russet potatoes, chopped
- 1 bag frozen seasoning blend (or chopped onions)
- 1 bag frozen peas
- 1 bag frozen green beans
- 1 bag frozen corn
- 4 large carrots, chopped
- 1 (32 oz) container beef broth
- 2 (10.75 oz) cans tomato soup
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- 1. Season the pot roast with salt and pepper and place it in a slow cooker with half a can of beef broth. Cook on LOW for about 10 hours until tender.
- 2. In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté carrots and seasoning blend until tender.
- 3. Shred the cooked roast and add it to the pot along with potatoes and remaining vegetables. Pour in the remaining beef broth and tomato soup, adding water as needed. Season to taste.
- 4. Bring to a boil then simmer for about an hour, stirring occasionally.
- 5. Adjust consistency with extra water if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
