This Hearty Homestyle Vegetable Beef Soup is comfort in a bowl, perfect for chilly nights. Packed with tender beef and a medley of vibrant vegetables, it's a wholesome meal that warms you from the inside out.
Beef stew meat provides the hearty protein base, becoming tender as it simmers. Olive oil helps brown the beef and sauté the vegetables, adding depth of flavor. Onion and garlic are essential for a flavorful aromatic base. Beef broth and water create the soup's savory liquid. Carrots, celery, and potatoes are classic soup vegetables that add texture and nutrition. A can of diced tomatoes brings a touch of acidity and richness. Frozen peas and green beans add a pop of color and sweetness. Dried thyme and a bay leaf infuse the soup with herby notes, while salt and pepper enhance all the flavors.
This soup pairs beautifully with a slice of crusty bread or a side of buttery biscuits. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a crisp green salad with a simple vinaigrette.
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the cubed beef stew meat. Cook until each piece is browned on the outside, then remove the beef from the pot and set it aside on a plate.
In the same pot, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for a few minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Now, pour in the beef broth and water, and bring the mixture to a boil. This will help deglaze the pot, lifting any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom.
Add the browned beef back into the pot, along with the sliced carrots, diced celery, cubed potatoes, the can of diced tomatoes, dried thyme, and a bay leaf. Give everything a good stir.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for about an hour. Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom and the flavors meld beautifully.
After an hour, add the frozen peas and chopped green beans. Cook for another 15 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Don't forget to remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and enjoy!