When it comes to hearty and comforting meals, few dishes can match the appeal of an old-fashioned vegetable beef soup recipe. This classic beef soup has been a family favorite for generations, offering a perfect combination of tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, savory broth. Whether you’re craving a warm and satisfying meal on a chilly evening or looking for a crowd-pleasing dish to serve at a gathering, vegetable beef soup with cabbage delivers in both flavor and nutrition. Packed with wholesome ingredients, this vegetable beef soup is not only a delicious choice but also a nostalgic reminder of timeless family recipes.
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Why Choose an Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup?
An old-fashioned vegetable beef soup is more than just a meal—it’s a piece of history. Rooted in traditional home cooking, this dish represents a simple yet wholesome way of combining available ingredients into a satisfying and nutritious meal. The beauty of this soup lies in its versatility: you can adapt it to suit your tastes, dietary needs, or seasonal ingredients. Plus, it’s easy to make and ideal for preparing in bulk for freezing and reheating.
For more inspiration on incorporating this soup into your meal rotation, check out Classic Comfort Food Recipes.
1 .Step-by-step old-fashioned vegetable beef soup recipe
Ingredients
Crafting the perfect vegetable beef soup starts with choosing the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
Beef Selection
- Chuck roast (recommended for its tenderness and flavor)
- Stew beef (convenient pre-cut option)
- Optional: Ground beef for a lighter twist (Ground Beef Soup Recipes).
Vegetables
- Potatoes, peeled and cubed
- Carrots, sliced into rounds
- Celery, chopped
- Green beans, trimmed
- Corn kernels
- Tomatoes, diced (canned or fresh)
Broth and Seasonings
- Beef broth (preferably low-sodium)
- Garlic and onions, minced
- Salt, pepper, and optional herbs like thyme or bay leaves.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Beef: Cut into bite-sized chunks if using a roast. Season with salt and pepper.
- Vegetables: Wash, peel, and chop all vegetables into even sizes for uniform cooking.
2. Brown the Beef
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add a drizzle of oil.
- Brown the beef pieces on all sides. This step enhances the depth of flavor in the soup.
3. Sauté the Aromatics
- Remove the beef and set aside. Add garlic and onions to the pot, sautéing until fragrant.
4. Build the Base
- Pour in the beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Return the beef to the pot and add diced tomatoes.
5. Add Vegetables
- Toss in potatoes, carrots, celery, green beans, and corn.
- Add thyme, bay leaves, or other preferred herbs for seasoning.
6. Simmer and Cook
- Cover the pot and let the soup simmer on low for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally. The beef should become tender, and the vegetables soft but not mushy.
7. Taste and Adjust
- Adjust the salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Variations and Substitutions
Alternative Meats
- Substitute beef with chicken or turkey for a lighter soup.
- Try ground beef for a quicker cooking option.
Vegetarian Version
- Skip the beef and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian take on this classic dish.
Regional Twists
- Incorporate barley or pasta for a heartier soup.
- Add regional spices, such as paprika or cumin, for unique flavor profiles.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your vegetable beef soup with:
- Crusty bread: Ideal for dipping into the rich broth.
- Side salad: A fresh complement to the warm and hearty soup.
- Beverages: Consider pairing with a light red wine or an herbal tea for a cozy meal experience.
Storage and Reheating Tips
This soup is perfect for meal prepping! Follow these tips to make the most of your leftovers:
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in individual portions for easy reheating later.
- Reheating: Use a stovetop or microwave. Add a splash of water or broth if the soup thickens too much in storage.
Nutritional Benefits of This Soup
This homemade soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients:
High in protein from the beef.
Rich in fiber, thanks to the vegetables.
Low in calories, especially if made with lean beef cuts.
Loaded with essential vitamins like Vitamin A (carrots), Vitamin C (tomatoes), and potassium (potatoes).
For meal-prep enthusiasts, this recipe is a great option to inclu
2 Easy Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe
This Easy Vegetable Beef Soup is a quick and comforting meal, perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something hearty. Packed with tender beef, nutritious vegetables, and a savory broth, it’s a family-friendly dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- Beef: 1 lb (450g) of stew beef or ground beef
- Vegetables:
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup of frozen green beans (or fresh if preferred)
- 1 cup of frozen corn (or fresh)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- Broth: 6 cups beef broth (low-sodium recommended)
- Seasonings:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil: 1-2 tbsp for sautéing
- Optional: Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Method
- Sauté the Beef:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- If using stew beef, brown the beef on all sides for 5-7 minutes. If using ground beef, cook it until browned and crumbled.
- Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same pot, add a little more olive oil if needed.
- Add the chopped onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Add the Broth and Tomatoes:
- Pour in the beef broth and add the can of diced tomatoes (with juices). Stir well.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
- Add the Potatoes and Seasonings:
- Add the diced potatoes, thyme, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the soup simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Add the Remaining Vegetables:
- Add the frozen green beans and corn to the soup. Continue simmering for another 10-15 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld together.
- Taste and Adjust:
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt or pepper if needed.
- Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal.
This Easy Vegetable Beef Soup is simple, flavorful, and versatile. You can easily adjust the vegetables based on what’s in season or your preferences. It’s a great meal prep option and stores well in the fridge for a few days or in the freezer for longer storage. Enjoy!
3 .classic Beef Soup Recipe
This classic beef soup is a hearty, comforting meal, perfect for colder months or whenever you’re in the mood for a satisfying dish. Packed with tender beef, vegetables, and flavorful broth, this recipe is simple to prepare and will surely become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- Beef: 1 lb (450g) beef stew meat or chuck roast, cut into bite-sized cubes
- Vegetables:
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup green beans (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (optional)
- Broth: 6 cups beef broth (low-sodium recommended)
- Seasonings:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil: 1-2 tbsp for browning the beef
- Optional: Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Method
- Brown the Beef:
- Heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add the beef cubes in batches, ensuring they are browned on all sides. This will take about 5-7 minutes per batch.
- Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add Broth and Seasonings:
- Pour in the beef broth and bring to a boil. Scrape the bottom of the pot to release any brown bits for added flavor.
- Add the thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Simmer the Soup:
- Return the browned beef to the pot, along with any juices that have accumulated.
- Add the diced potatoes and stir everything together.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
- Add Additional Vegetables:
- Add the green beans, corn, and diced tomatoes (if using). Continue to simmer for another 10-15 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
- Taste and Adjust:
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Serve:
- Ladle the beef soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired.
- Serve with crusty bread or crackers on the side for a complete meal.
This beef soup recipe is both simple and delicious, offering a perfect balance of protein and vegetables. You can customize the soup by adding your favorite veggies or using different cuts of beef, such as chuck or brisket. It’s a great dish for meal prep, as it stores well in the fridge or freezer for later enjoyment.
4 .Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup with Cabbage Recipe
This hearty vegetable beef soup with cabbage is a wholesome, nutritious dish that combines tender beef, an assortment of vegetables, and a generous amount of cabbage. It’s packed with flavor and is perfect for a filling lunch or dinner. The cabbage adds a delicious crunch and a slight sweetness that complements the savory broth and beef.
Ingredients
- Beef: 1 lb (450g) beef stew meat or chuck roast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Vegetables:
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1/2 head of cabbage, shredded (about 4 cups)
- 1 cup green beans (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- Broth: 6 cups beef broth (low-sodium recommended)
- Seasonings:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil: 1-2 tbsp for browning the beef
- Optional: Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Method
- Brown the Beef:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add the beef stew meat (or chuck roast) in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Brown the beef on all sides for about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until they start to soften.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add Broth and Seasonings:
- Pour in the beef broth and stir to combine, scraping any brown bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Add the dried thyme, basil, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir to incorporate.
- Simmer the Beef and Vegetables:
- Return the browned beef to the pot, including any juices that have accumulated.
- Add the diced potatoes and bring the soup to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer, covered, for about 30-40 minutes, until the beef becomes tender and the potatoes are cooked through.
- Add Cabbage and Other Vegetables:
- Stir in the shredded cabbage, green beans, and corn.
- Continue simmering for another 20-30 minutes until the cabbage wilts and the other vegetables are tender.
- Taste and Adjust:
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or basil, if desired.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
This hearty vegetable beef soup with cabbage is a comforting, one-pot meal that’s loaded with nutrition. The cabbage adds a wonderful texture to the soup, and the beef provides richness and depth of flavor. It’s a great dish for feeding a crowd or for meal prepping. You can also customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the seasonings to your taste. Enjoy!
FAQs About Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe
Can I use different types of beef for this soup?
Yes, you can use various cuts of beef for this soup. While beef stew meat or chuck roast are ideal for their tenderness when slow-cooked, you can also use ground beef for a quicker preparation. If you prefer leaner options, consider using sirloin or round steak.
Can I make old-fashioned vegetable beef soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can! In fact, old-fashioned vegetable beef soup often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months for long-term storage.
What vegetables can I add or substitute in this recipe?
Feel free to get creative with your vegetables. While the recipe traditionally includes carrots, celery, and potatoes, you can add or substitute other vegetables such as parsnips, turnips, peas, or green beans. If you prefer a heartier soup, adding barley or corn works wonderfully.
Can I use frozen vegetables in an old-fashioned vegetable beef soup recipe?
Yes, frozen vegetables are a great and convenient option for making old-fashioned vegetable beef soup. Simply add them during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking to ensure they retain their texture and don’t become overcooked. Frozen peas, corn, and green beans are excellent additions to this classic dish, making it easier to prepare without compromising on flavor.
Can I make Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make this soup in a slow cooker! Brown the beef first in a skillet, then add all the ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the beef and vegetables are tender.
What can I do if my old-fashioned vegetable beef soup is too thick?
If your old-fashioned vegetable beef soup turns out too thick, simply add more beef broth or water until it reaches the desired consistency. Add the liquid gradually and stir to ensure the soup doesn’t become too watery. This will help maintain the rich, savory texture while achieving the perfect balance.
get too spicy. m about , old-fashioned vegetable beef soup
To add some spice to your old-fashioned vegetable beef soup, you can incorporate red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce. Add these ingredients gradually, tasting as you go, to ensure the soup doesn’t become too spicy. This way, you can control the heat to your preferred level.
How can I make my old-fashioned vegetable beef soup spicier?
To add some heat to your old-fashioned vegetable beef soup, you can mix in red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce. Add these ingredients gradually, tasting as you go, to ensure the soup reaches the perfect level of spiciness without becoming overwhelming.
What should I serve with old-fashioned vegetable beef soup?
his hearty old-fashioned vegetable beef soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, cornbread, or a fresh side salad. For a complete meal, you can also serve it alongside a simple pasta dish or crispy crackers to complement the rich flavors of the soup.
Can I add pasta or grains to my old-fashioned vegetable beef soup?
Yes, adding pasta, such as elbow macaroni or small shells, or grains like barley or rice can make your old-fashioned vegetable beef soup even heartier. If you choose to add pasta, be sure to add it during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking to prevent it from becoming too soft.
How do I store and reheat my old-fashioned vegetable beef soup?
To store leftover old-fashioned vegetable beef soup, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave if preferred. For longer storage, freeze the soup for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
An old-fashioned vegetable beef soup recipe is the perfect combination of nostalgia, nutrition, and flavor. Whether you stick to the traditional method or add your own unique twist, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Serve it fresh for a comforting meal, freeze it for later, and enjoy the timeless appeal of this classic. With its hearty blend of beef, vegetables, and savory broth, this vegetable beef soup will quickly become a favorite in your home.