Ingredients:
1 lb (450g) lean ground beef or stew beef, cut into small cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
2 celery stalks, chopped
2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
1 cup green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
1 zucchini, chopped
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
4 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter option)
2 cups water
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1 bay leaf (optional)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Brown the Beef:
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Add the ground beef or stew beef to the pot. Brown the meat for 5-7 minutes, breaking it up into smaller pieces if using ground beef. If using stew beef, brown on all sides.
Once browned, drain any excess fat if needed.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, until the onion is softened and fragrant.
Add the carrots, celery, and potatoes to the pot. Stir well.
- Add the Broth and Seasonings:
Pour in the beef broth and water, then stir in the diced tomatoes (with juice), green beans, corn, and zucchini.
Add the dried thyme, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. If desired, add Worcestershire sauce and a bay leaf for extra flavor.
Stir everything together, and bring the soup to a simmer.
- Simmer the Soup:
Lower the heat and let the soup simmer, uncovered, for 30-45 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally.
- Adjust Seasonings:
Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings with more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
- Serve:
Ladle the hearty beef and vegetable soup into bowls, and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers for a satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Hearty Beef and Vegetable Soup:
This comforting soup is packed with tender beef, a variety of vegetables, and rich flavors, making it the perfect meal for chilly days. It’s filling, nutritious, and can easily be customized with your favorite veggies or seasonings. Whether you enjoy it for lunch or dinner, this soup will keep you warm and satisfied!