Old Fashioned Beef Vegetable Soup Recipe – Just Like Grandma’s
The smell of beef and veggies cooking in the kitchen reminds me of my childhood. I’d sit at the table with my family, enjoying grandma’s old fashioned beef vegetable soup. This dish is a classic that brings home and nostalgia to every bite.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Authentic old fashioned beef vegetable soup recipe with tender beef and fresh vegetables
- Rich, flavorful broth that simmers to perfection on the stovetop or in the slow cooker
- Versatile dish that can be customized to suit individual taste preferences
- Nutritious and satisfying meal that provides a balanced source of protein, vitamins, and minerals
- Brings back cherished memories of grandma’s home-cooked meals
Introduction to Old Fashioned Beef Vegetable Soup
Old fashioned beef vegetable soup brings back grandma’s cooking. It’s a hearty dish for cold weather. It has tender meat, mixed veggies, and potatoes in a rich broth. You can make it on the stovetop or in a slow cooker, fitting your schedule.
The Comfort of Homemade Soup
Beef vegetable soup is a comforting meal. It’s full of nourishing veggies and tender meat in a tasty broth. The smell of it cooking reminds us of family times and cozy nights.
A Dish with Nostalgic Flavors
Beef stew meat, like chuck or round, is used for beef vegetable soup. It cooks slowly, making the meat tender. The soup includes carrots, celery, onions, mushrooms, and garlic. Tomatoes, herbs, and beef broth add flavor. Worcestershire sauce boosts the umami taste.
You can add frozen corn or peas, and even rice or barley. The soup is great for making ahead. Store leftovers in the fridge or freezer for later.
Key Ingredients for Your Soup
Creating the perfect old-fashioned beef vegetable soup is all about the right ingredients. The choice of beef, essential vegetables, and herbs and spices all matter. Each one adds to the soup’s depth and balance, making it a hearty dish.
Choosing the Right Cut of Beef
For tender and flavorful beef, choose stew meat or chuck roast cut into ¾-inch cubes. The tough collagen in this beef becomes tender during long simmering. Ground beef is also an option, but it will have a different texture.
Essential Vegetables for Flavor
- Diced potatoes: These starchy vegetables add body and substance to the soup.
- Frozen mixed vegetables: A blend of carrots, peas, green beans, and corn provides a variety of flavors and textures.
- Canned diced tomatoes: The acidity and sweetness of tomatoes complement the savory broth.
- Onions and garlic: These aromatic ingredients lend their signature flavors to the soup.
Herbs and Spices That Shine
To enhance your old-fashioned beef vegetable soup, season it with herbs and spices. Key ingredients include:
- Butter: For a rich, velvety mouthfeel
- Worcestershire sauce: Adds depth and a subtle umami note
- Bay leaves: Imparts an earthy, herbaceous aroma
- Salt and pepper: Essential for balancing the flavors
By choosing and combining these ingredients, you’ll make a comforting and delicious slow cooker beef soup. It will remind you of your childhood flavors.
Preparing Your Ingredients
Before making a hearty grandma’s beef soup or any tasty winter soup recipes, you need to prepare your ingredients. This step is key to a flavorful and satisfying soup.
Chopping Vegetables and Meat
Begin by chopping the vegetables into small pieces. Keep the potato skin on for extra flavor, texture, and vitamins. For the beef, sear it first to keep the juices in. This makes the beef tender and full of flavor in your grandma’s beef soup.
Tips for Efficient Prep
- Use frozen mixed vegetables for a quick and healthy soup addition.
- Make sure all vegetables and meat are the same size for even cooking.
- Sealing the beef before adding it to the soup boosts flavor and texture.
By carefully preparing your ingredients, you’re on your way to a winter soup recipe that feels like grandma’s cooking.
Cooking Methods to Consider
The classic recipe for old fashioned beef vegetable soup can be made in different ways. You can use a slow cooker, Instant Pot, or stovetop. Each method has its own benefits.
Stovetop Cooking for Rich Flavor
For a hearty beef soup full of flavor, try stovetop cooking. Use a Dutch oven or large pot. This way, you can sauté the beef and veggies, creating a rich base of flavors.
The slow simmer on the stovetop lets the ingredients blend well. This makes the soup deeply satisfying.
Slow Cooker Convenience
On busy weekdays, the slow cooker is a great choice. Just prepare the ingredients in the morning. Then, add them to the slow cooker and let it work its magic.
The slow cooker tenderizes the beef and develops the flavors fully. It’s perfect for a quick, delicious meal.
Instant Pot Speed and Ease
Want your old fashioned beef vegetable soup fast? The Instant Pot is your best friend. Sauté the meat and veggies first. Then, cook the soup in just 12-15 minutes on high pressure.
This method makes the soup tender and flavorful in no time. It’s a quick way to enjoy a delicious meal.
Choosing any cooking method, this versatile soup is sure to please. It’s perfect for any time of year, thanks to its adaptability.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making a classic homestyle soup like this old-fashioned beef vegetable soup is a joy. It lets you enjoy the smell and taste of each ingredient. Follow these steps to make your classic soup recipe just right.
Browning the Beef
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of canola oil in a big pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the cubed beef chuck roast in batches until it’s nicely seared on all sides. This takes about 3-4 minutes per batch. It’s a key step that makes the beef taste richer and adds depth to the soup.
Adding Vegetables and Broth
After browning the beef, add the diced onions, minced garlic, sliced celery, and chopped carrots to the pot. Cook the vegetables until they start to soften, which takes about 5-7 minutes. Then, stir in the tomato paste and all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to mix the flavors.
Pour in the beef broth and water slowly, stirring well to avoid lumps.
Simmering to Perfection
Bring the soup to a boil, then lower the heat to low. Add the dried Italian seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, and the browned beef. Let it simmer for 45 minutes to blend the flavors and make the beef tender. In the last 15-20 minutes, add the diced potatoes and simmer until they’re tender.
Finally, add the frozen green beans and peas and cook until they’re hot. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The secret to a great classic soup recipe is tender beef and perfectly cooked vegetables.
Adjusting Flavors to Your Liking
Improving your beef broth soup or vegetable beef stew is about finding the right mix of seasonings. You might want to make it more savory or add some spice. These tips will help you make a dish that you’ll love.
Seasoning Tips for Every Palate
Begin by mixing beef broth and beef bullion for a deeper flavor. Also, deglaze the pan with beef broth after cooking the ingredients. Try adding chipotle hot sauce, jalapeños, or banana peppers for heat and flavor.
Be creative with other seasonings like Italian seasoning, tomato sauce, or soy sauce. Orange juice, white pepper, garlic powder, and red wine can also enhance your dish. Cilantro, parsley, and green onion add freshness and depth.
Substituting Ingredients
- Ground pork or Italian sausage can be used as alternatives to ground beef.
- Lentils or plant-based meat substitutes make for a delicious vegetarian version.
- Sweet potatoes can be a flavorful substitute for white potatoes.
These classic dishes are great because you can change them up. Try different vegetables, seasonings, and proteins to match your taste. The goal is to find the perfect mix that makes you happy.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy your homemade slow cooker beef soup with some simple sides. Try it with crusty or garlic bread to catch every bit. You can also bake fresh loaves from frozen bread dough for a perfect match.
This easy soup recipe is great for leftovers. Keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days for quick lunches. Just reheat it in a microwave-safe container for a tasty meal.
Creative Ways to Serve Leftovers
- Ladle the soup over cooked rice or quinoa for a bigger meal.
- Top baked potatoes with the leftover soup for a cozy spud.
- Mix the soup into cooked pasta for a warm beef noodle dish.
- Use the soup as a sauce for grilled cheese or bread.
| Serving Suggestion | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Crusty Bread | Soaks up the flavorful broth |
| Garlic Bread | Adds a savory, aromatic element |
| Freshly Baked Bread | Provides a warm, homemade touch |
| Glass Containers | Allows for easy reheating and storage of leftovers |
Whether it’s dinner or lunch, this slow cooker beef soup is a hit. Its comforting flavors and texture will keep you wanting more. With a few easy serving ideas and creative leftovers, every bite is as good as the first.
Nutritional Benefits of Beef Vegetable Soup
Grandma’s beef vegetable soup is more than just a warm meal. It’s packed with nutrients to keep you healthy and happy in winter. This hearty soup is a mix of vitamins, minerals, and proteins, making it a great choice for a balanced meal.
A Balanced Meal in a Bowl
This classic soup has about 433 calories per serving. It’s made with 2 pounds of cubed rump roast, adding 32 grams of protein. With only 23 grams of carbs, it helps keep your blood sugar steady.
Vitamins and Minerals from Fresh Ingredients
- The soup is rich in Vitamin A, thanks to carrots, parsnips, and other veggies. You get 6883IU per serving.
- It’s also a good source of Vitamin C, with 29mg per serving. This vitamin boosts your immune system and helps with collagen.
- Other important vitamins and minerals include Calcium (139mg), Iron (8mg), and Potassium (1420mg).
This soup combines tender beef, fresh and frozen veggies, and a savory broth. It’s a nutritious choice to keep your body warm and nourished during winter.
Conclusion: The Legacy of Old Fashioned Soup
The recipe for old fashioned beef vegetable soup is a timeless treasure. It connects generations through the simple pleasure of a hearty, comforting meal. This dish shows the enduring nature of traditional recipes, remaining a staple in many households.
Sharing the Recipe with Loved Ones
By making and sharing this recipe, you’re preserving a culinary legacy. The flavors and aromas of this soup evoke memories of cherished family gatherings and cozy winter nights. Passing down this recipe ensures the tradition lives on, allowing new generations to experience the joy and nostalgia with every spoonful.
Keeping the Tradition Alive
The versatility and simplicity of this hearty beef soup recipe make it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re simmering it on the stovetop, slow cooking it in the crockpot, or pressure cooking it in the Instant Pot, the result is a comforting meal. By continuing to prepare and savor this timeless dish, you’re keeping the tradition alive and honoring the culinary wisdom of those who came before you.