Cozy Beef And Vegetable Soup
Highlighted under: Warm Comfort Food Ideas
I love making Cozy Beef and Vegetable Soup, especially on chilly evenings when comfort food feels like a warm hug. The hearty blend of tender beef, colorful vegetables, and fragrant herbs comes together beautifully, creating a dish that's both nourishing and delicious. There's just something magical about simmering it for a while, as the flavors develop and the aroma fills the house. Pair it with crusty bread, and you have the perfect meal to enjoy with family or friends on those cozy nights in.
When I first attempted to make Cozy Beef and Vegetable Soup, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy and rewarding the process was. I opted for fresh, in-season vegetables, which significantly enhanced the flavor. My secret is adding a touch of balsamic vinegar at the end—it brightens the dish and balances the richness of the beef.
This soup has become a staple in my home. I love serving it to friends during gatherings, and it never fails to impress. Plus, the leftovers taste even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prepping!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich beef flavor complemented by fresh vegetables
- Hearty and filling, perfect for cold days
- Easy to make and great for meal prep
Understanding the Ingredients
The choice of beef chuck roast is crucial for this Cozy Beef and Vegetable Soup. This cut is well-marbled, providing the fat necessary for flavor and tenderness as it cooks. Searing the meat at a high temperature locks in juices, enhancing the overall richness of the broth. If you're in need of a quicker option, you could swap beef chuck for stew meat, though keep in mind it may not yield the same depth of flavor.
Using fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and green beans not only adds nutrition but also creates a vibrant texture and taste contrast in the soup. For a twist, consider substituting green beans with peas or corn, which can introduce a hint of sweetness. Remember to cut the veggies into consistent sizes to ensure even cooking; large chunks will result in crunchy pieces, while small ones may dissolve.
Technique Tips for Perfect Soup
Simmering the soup for a full 45 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully, but pay attention to the heat. A low and gentle simmer is ideal; boiling can toughen the meat and break down vegetables too much. If the soup bubbles too vigorously, reduce the heat and adjust the lid to control evaporation. You want to see small bubbles breaking the surface and not a rolling boil.
Taste testing is essential as you approach the end of cooking. The balance of seasoning will elevate the dish, so consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce for extra umami or a pinch of red pepper flakes for warmth. My secret tip is adding a dash of vinegar to brighten the flavors right before serving, enhancing that rich beef taste.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients for the best flavor!
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb beef chuck roast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preference!
Instructions
Follow these steps for a delicious soup!
Sear the Beef
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef chunks and brown them on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove the beef and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
Combine Ingredients
Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the beef broth, diced tomatoes, green beans, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
Simmer
Reduce heat to low, cover, and let the soup simmer for 45 minutes, or until the beef is tender.
Serve and Enjoy
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley, alongside crusty bread.
Enjoy the delicious aroma while it cooks!
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, try adding a splash of red wine while simmering, and don't forget to taste as you go along!
Storage and Reheating
This beef and vegetable soup can be made ahead and stored for later enjoyment, which makes it a great candidate for meal prepping. Once cooled, transfer it to airtight containers and store in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in portions for up to three months. Just make sure to leave some headspace in containers, as liquids expand when frozen.
When reheating, do so gently on medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the bottom from scorching. You can add a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened too much during storage. For a fresh touch, consider garnish options like a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of olive oil right before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This Cozy Beef and Vegetable Soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, allowing you to soak up every bit of the rich broth. A simple side salad can also complement this hearty dish, providing a fresh contrast. If you want to elevate the meal further, consider serving it with a cheesy garlic bread, which adds an indulgent touch.
For a more elevated dining experience, top each bowl with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh herbs such as dill or chives. A squeeze of lemon or a dash of hot sauce can also enhance the flavor profile, making the dish even more comforting and satisfying.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, you can substitute fresh vegetables with frozen ones. Just add them closer to the end of cooking time to prevent overcooking.
→ How long does this soup last in the fridge?
The soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze the soup?
Absolutely! Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
→ What can I serve with this soup?
Crusty bread, rolls, or a side salad are great options to enjoy alongside this hearty soup.
Cozy Beef And Vegetable Soup
I love making Cozy Beef and Vegetable Soup, especially on chilly evenings when comfort food feels like a warm hug. The hearty blend of tender beef, colorful vegetables, and fragrant herbs comes together beautifully, creating a dish that's both nourishing and delicious. There's just something magical about simmering it for a while, as the flavors develop and the aroma fills the house. Pair it with crusty bread, and you have the perfect meal to enjoy with family or friends on those cozy nights in.
Created by: Cecilia Grant
Recipe Type: Warm Comfort Food Ideas
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb beef chuck roast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef chunks and brown them on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove the beef and set aside.
In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the beef broth, diced tomatoes, green beans, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
Reduce heat to low, cover, and let the soup simmer for 45 minutes, or until the beef is tender.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley, alongside crusty bread.
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, try adding a splash of red wine while simmering, and don't forget to taste as you go along!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 28g