There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of vegetable beef soup to comfort you on a chilly day. This “Best Ever Easy Vegetable Beef Soup” is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender ground beef with fresh vegetables and aromatic spices. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep, this soup is not only delicious but also easy to make. Let’s dive into the recipe and see how to create this delicious soup step-by-step.
Ingredients
- 4 cups tomatoes, chopped (or use canned tomatoes)
- 1/2 pound ground beef, cooked and drained
- 4 cups mixed vegetables (fresh or frozen, such as corn, green beans, carrots, peas)
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
- 2 bay leaves
- 4 cups beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Cook Ground Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat and set aside.
- Chop Tomatoes: If using fresh tomatoes, chop them into small pieces. If using canned tomatoes, drain them if they are packed in juice or liquid.
Step 2: Assemble the Soup
- Combine Ingredients: In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the cooked ground beef, chopped tomatoes, mixed vegetables, beef broth, Italian seasoning, curry powder, and bay leaves.
- Season: Add salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 3: Cook the Soup
- Bring to a Boil: Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the soup to a boil.
- Simmer: Once the soup reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.
Step 4: Serve
- Remove Bay Leaves: Before serving, remove and discard the bay leaves from the soup.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Cooking Notes
- Ground Beef: For a leaner option, use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef.
- Vegetables: Feel free to use any combination of vegetables you like. Fresh or frozen both work well in this recipe.
- Spices: Adjust the seasoning to your taste. Add more curry powder for a spicier kick or more Italian seasoning for a herby flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time? A: Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pot over medium heat until warmed through.
Q: Can I freeze this soup? A: Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Keto/Low Carb Version
To make a keto or low-carb version of this soup, follow these modifications:
- Vegetables: Use low-carb vegetables like zucchini, spinach, and bell peppers. Avoid starchy vegetables like corn and peas.
- Broth: Ensure the beef broth used is low in carbs and free of added sugars.
This “Best Ever Easy Vegetable Beef Soup” is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors and nutritious ingredients, it’s a meal that will satisfy and warm you from the inside out. Try this recipe today and enjoy a bowl of homemade goodness!
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