Old-fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe

If you're searching for a heartwarming meal that’s both nourishing and packed with flavor, this Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is the perfect recipe for you. With tender pot roast, hearty vegetables, and a rich, savory broth, it’s a dish that will warm your soul and bring back memories of home-cooked meals. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this soup is easy to prepare and sure to become a family favorite. Read on to discover everything you need to know to make this delightful dish.

this Recipe

What is Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup?

Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is a classic comfort food that combines tender beef, a medley of vegetables, and a savory broth to create a hearty, satisfying meal. This dish is known for its rich flavors, robust ingredients, and the way it brings together the wholesome goodness of beef and vegetables in a way that’s both filling and nutritious. Traditionally slow-cooked to allow the flavors to meld together, this soup is perfect for cold days or whenever you need a comforting meal.

Ingredients List for Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

Main Ingredients

1. Pot Roast (about 2 pounds): The cornerstone of the soup, providing tender, flavorful chunks of beef that enrich the broth.
2. Russet Potatoes, Chopped: These add a hearty texture and help thicken the soup slightly as they cook.
3. Frozen Seasoning Blend (or chopped onions): A convenient mix of chopped onions, celery, and bell peppers that adds depth and flavor to the soup.
4. Frozen Peas: Sweet and tender, peas bring a pop of color and a slight sweetness to the dish.
5. Frozen Green Beans: These add a crunchy texture and a mild flavor that complements the richness of the beef.
6. Frozen Corn: Corn adds sweetness and a slight crunch, balancing the savory elements of the soup.
7. Large Carrots, Chopped: Carrots provide a natural sweetness and pair well with the other vegetables, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
8. Beef Broth (32 oz container): The base of the soup, giving it a rich, savory flavor that complements the beef.
9. Tomato Soup (2 cans, 10.75 oz each): Adds a tangy sweetness and depth of flavor, making the broth thicker and more flavorful.
10. Water (1 can filled): Helps to balance the richness of the broth and adjust the consistency of the soup.
11. Salt and Pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that bring out the flavors of the ingredients and add a final touch of seasoning.

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is quite versatile and can be adapted to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some common substitutions and variations:

1. Meat Substitutions: If you don’t have pot roast, you can use ground beef, stew meat, or even leftover steak. Each type of beef will give the soup a slightly different texture and flavor.
2. Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like zucchini, celery, or bell peppers. Fresh vegetables can be used in place of frozen ones, but you might need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
3. Broth Alternatives: For a different flavor profile, you can substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth or chicken broth. For a richer taste, you could use a mix of beef broth and beef stock.
4. Grain Additions: To make the soup even heartier, consider adding grains like barley, rice, or quinoa. These will absorb some of the broth and add extra texture to the dish.
5. Herbs and Spices: Experiment with herbs like thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves for additional flavor. A dash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce can also deepen the savory notes.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that we’ve covered the ingredients and possible variations, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making this comforting Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup.

1. Preparing the Pot Roast

• Season the Meat: Start by seasoning the pot roast generously with salt and pepper. This step is crucial as it helps to flavor the beef and ultimately the entire soup.
• Slow Cook the Pot Roast: Place the seasoned roast in your slow cooker with half a can of beef broth. Cook on LOW for about 10 hours. The slow cooking process allows the beef to become tender and easy to shred.

2. Sautéing the Vegetables

• Sauté the Carrots and Seasoning Mix: In a very large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped carrots and the frozen seasoning blend (or just chopped onions) to the pot. Sauté these ingredients until they are tender and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.

3. Adding the Remaining Ingredients

• Combine All Ingredients: Once the vegetables are tender, add the shredded beef, chopped potatoes, remaining frozen vegetables (peas, green beans, and corn), the rest of the beef broth, the tomato soup, and the can of water to the pot. Stir everything together to combine well.
• Season the Soup: Add salt and pepper to taste, keeping in mind that you can adjust the seasoning later if needed.

4. Cooking the Soup

• Bring to a Boil: Increase the heat and bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low.
• Simmer: Cover the pot with a lid and let the soup simmer for about an hour. This slow simmer allows the flavors to meld together, and the potatoes and other vegetables to become tender.
• Adjust Consistency: If the soup is too thick for your liking, you can add more water or beef broth as it cooks. Taste the soup periodically and adjust the seasoning as needed.

5. Finishing Touches

• Check for Doneness: After an hour of simmering, check the potatoes and carrots to ensure they are tender. If they are soft and easily pierced with a fork, the soup is ready.
• Final Seasoning: Before serving, give the soup one last taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.

How to Cook Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking this Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is straightforward and rewarding. By following the detailed instructions above, you’ll create a delicious, hearty soup that’s sure to satisfy. The key to this recipe is patience—allowing the soup to simmer slowly ensures that all the flavors meld together beautifully. Whether you cook it on the stovetop or in a slow cooker, the result will be a rich, comforting soup that’s perfect for any occasion.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a simple recipe, there are a few common mistakes that could affect the final outcome of your soup. Here’s how to avoid them:

1. Not Seasoning the Meat Properly: Skipping this step can lead to bland meat and soup. Season the pot roast generously to ensure the soup is flavorful.
2. Overcooking the Vegetables: Adding vegetables too early or cooking them at too high a heat can cause them to become mushy. Always add vegetables in the proper order and cook at the right temperature.
3. Not Adjusting the Consistency: If the soup is too thick, don’t hesitate to add more broth or water. On the other hand, if it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered to reduce.
4. Rushing the Simmering Process: The slow simmer is what allows the flavors to develop fully. Don’t rush this process; give the soup the time it needs to reach its full potential.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation can elevate your Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup from a simple dish to a meal that looks as good as it tastes. Here are some tips to make your soup shine:

How to Serve Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

1. Serve Hot: This soup is best served hot, straight from the pot. Ladle it into deep bowls to keep it warm longer.
2. With Bread: Pair the soup with crusty bread or warm rolls to soak up the delicious broth. A slice of buttered bread or a garlic baguette would complement the soup perfectly.
3. With a Salad: A fresh, crisp salad on the side can add a nice contrast to the rich, hearty soup. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette works well.

Presentation Ideas for Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

1. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or thyme over the top of each bowl before serving. The fresh herbs add a burst of color and enhance the soup’s flavor.
2. Serve in Bread Bowls: For a rustic presentation, consider serving the soup in bread bowls. The bread will soak up the broth, adding even more flavor.
3. Add a Dollop of Sour Cream: A small spoonful of sour cream on top can add creaminess and a slight tang, making the soup even more indulgent.

Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe Tips

1. Make Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it an ideal make-ahead meal. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
2. Freeze for Later: This soup freezes well. Portion it into individual containers and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
3. Adjusting for Spiciness: If you prefer a spicier soup, add a dash of hot sauce or some crushed red pepper flakes to the pot during the cooking process.
4. Enhance the Umami: For an even deeper flavor, add a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce during the simmering stage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh vegetables can be used, but keep in mind that they may require a longer cooking time to reach the desired tenderness.

2. Can I cook this soup in a slow cooker from start to finish?

Absolutely! You can add all the ingredients to your slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours. Just be sure to shred the beef before serving.

3. How can I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?

If the soup is too thin, you can let it simmer uncovered to reduce the liquid, or you can add a slurry of cornstarch and water to thicken it.

4. What cuts of beef are best for this soup?

Pot roast, chuck roast, or stew meat are all excellent choices for this soup, as they become tender and flavorful when slow-cooked.

5. Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, to make a vegetarian version, simply omit the beef and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. You can also add more vegetables or beans to make it heartier.

Conclusion

Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting bowl of nostalgia that brings together the rich flavors of tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a savory broth. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this soup is sure to satisfy. With simple ingredients, easy-to-follow instructions, and plenty of room for variations, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Give it a try, and enjoy a taste of home in every spoonful!

Print