Vegetable Beef Soup

Dive into a bowl of warmth and heartiness with our delectable Vegetable Beef Soup recipe. This comforting classic seamlessly blends tender stewing beef with an array of vibrant vegetables, creating a wholesome and satisfying meal. As the aroma of thyme and bay leaves fills your kitchen, you’ll be transported to a culinary haven. Join us on this culinary journey as we explore the art of crafting this soul-soothing soup, share cook notes for perfection, offer tantalizing variations, and cater to keto and low-carb enthusiasts. Let the simmering begin, and let your taste buds revel in the symphony of flavors!

Ingredients

Meat:

• 500 g Stewing beef

Produce:

• 2 Bay leaves
• 3 Carrots
• 2 Celery stalks (sliced (about 1/3″))
• 3 Garlic cloves
• 1 Onion
• 1 cup Peas, frozen
• 2 Potatoes (cubed (approx. 2/3″))
• 1 tsp Thyme, dried

Canned Goods:

• 2 1/2 cups Beef broth, low sodium
• 2 tbsp Tomato paste

Baking & Spices:

• 4 tbsp Flour
• Salt and pepper

Oils & Vinegars:

• 1 1/2 tbsp Olive oil

Beer, Wine & Liquor:

• 1 1/2 cups Red wine, dry

Liquids:

• 1 1/2 cups Water

Instructions

Soul-Warming Goodness: Vegetable Beef Soup

1. Sear the Beef:
   • In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Coat the stewing beef with flour, then sear it until browned on all sides.
2. Aromatics Unleashed:
   • Add diced onions and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until fragrant and the onions turn translucent.
3. Wine Elixir:
   • Pour in the dry red wine, scraping the flavorful bits from the bottom. Allow it to simmer and infuse the beef with rich flavors.
4. Broth and Tomatoes:
   • Stir in the beef broth and add tomato paste, creating a luscious base for your soup.
5. Vegetable Medley:
   • Toss in carrots, celery, and cubed potatoes. These veggies add texture and absorb the savory essence of the broth.
6. Thyme’s Touch:
   • Sprinkle dried thyme over the pot, introducing an herbaceous note that elevates the entire dish.
7. Bay Leaf Symphony:
   • Drop in bay leaves to enhance the aroma and depth of the soup. Remember to remove them before serving.
8. Simmer to Perfection:
   • Lower the heat, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for at least an hour. This slow-cooking method allows flavors to meld.
9. Peas at the Finish:
   • Add frozen peas toward the end of cooking. They cook quickly and maintain their vibrant color.
10. Seasoning Synchrony:
    • Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning to suit your preferences.
11. Serve and Enjoy:
    • Ladle this hearty concoction into bowls. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired. Serve piping hot and relish in the comforting aroma.

Cook Notes

• For enhanced flavor, marinate the stewing beef in red wine, garlic, and thyme for a few hours before cooking.
• If the soup thickens too much, adjust the consistency by adding more water or beef broth.

Variations

1. Italian Twist:
   • Infuse Italian flavors by adding oregano, rosemary, and a Parmesan rind during simmering.
2. Spicy Kick:
   • Incorporate red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a zesty rendition.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions

• Keto Option:
  • Replace potatoes with cauliflower or turnips to reduce the carb content.
• Low-Carb Option:
  • Skip the flour coating on the beef and thicken the soup with xanthan gum or a similar low-carb thickener.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker? A1: Absolutely! Brown the beef, sauté the aromatics, and then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Q2: Can I freeze this soup? A2: Certainly! Allow it to cool completely, then freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

Q3: What is the best cut of beef for stewing? A3: Chuck or round cuts are excellent choices. They become tender and flavorful after slow cooking.

Q4: Can I omit the wine? A4: Yes, you can replace it with additional broth or a combination of broth and a splash of balsamic vinegar for acidity.

Indulge in the wholesome goodness of our Vegetable Beef Soup, a symphony of flavors that brings comfort to your table. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe promises a rewarding culinary experience. From its savory beginnings to the warmth it imparts, each spoonful tells a tale of homemade perfection. Customize, experiment, and let this soup become a canvas for your culinary creativity. Here’s to heartwarming bowls and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones