There’s nothing quite like the warm embrace of a hearty soup on a chilly evening, is there? As the sun sets and the temperatures drop, the rich, savory aroma of my Vegetable Beef Soup fills the kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. This isn’t just any soup; it boasts melt-in-your-mouth pieces of tender beef, vibrant bursts of fresh vegetables, and a secret splash of red wine that dances through the rich broth.
I stumbled upon this delightful recipe after realizing that my usual fast meals weren’t satisfying my cravings for comfort food. With each spoonful, this soup wraps you in a cozy layer of savory goodness, making it the ultimate crowd-pleaser for any family dinner. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply want to indulge in a homemade meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, this Vegetable Beef Soup is for you. Let’s dive in and transform your kitchen into a haven of flavor!
Why is Vegetable Beef Soup the ultimate comfort food?
Hearty Comfort: This Vegetable Beef Soup is the embodiment of cozy nights, providing warmth and satisfaction in every bowl.
Melt-in-Your-Mouth Beef: Tender chunks of slow-cooked beef elevate the flavors, ensuring each bite is a savory delight.
Vibrant Vegetables: A colorful medley of fresh vegetables not only enhances the taste but also makes the dish visually appealing.
Savory Red Wine Splash: The secret ingredient adds depth, transforming a humble soup into an extraordinary experience.
Easy Make-Ahead Meal: Perfect for busy weeks, this soup saves well—making meal prep a breeze!
Whether you’re impressing family or enjoying a quiet night in, our Vegetable Beef Soup will surely warm your heart and soul. For more cozy classics, check out our Comfort Food Collection.
Vegetable Beef Soup Ingredients
For the Soup
• Olive Oil (1.5 tbsp) – Used for sautéing; adds flavor and helps the beef brown nicely.
• Stewing Beef (500g/1 lb) – Main protein; look for well-marbled cuts for maximum tenderness.
• Salt and Pepper (1/2 tsp each) – Essential seasonings to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
• Onion (1, chopped) – Provides a sweet base flavor as it cooks down into the broth.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Adds aromatic depth and delightful flavor to the soup.
• Celery (2 stalks, sliced) – Adds crunch and boosts the overall flavor profile.
• Carrots (3, sliced) – Contributes sweetness and lovely color; slice larger ones in half.
• Flour (4 tbsp) – Acts as a thickening agent to create a gravy-like consistency in the broth.
• Beef Broth (2.5 cups or 625ml, low sodium) – Forms the liquid base; opt for low sodium for better flavor control.
• Red Wine or Stout (1.5 cups or 375ml) – Enhances the broth’s flavor; consider non-alcoholic substitutes like crushed tomatoes for a richer taste.
• Water (1.5 cups or 375ml) – Helps to adjust the soup’s consistency to your liking.
• Tomato Paste (2 tbsp) – Adds richness and umami, deepening the bowl’s flavor.
• Bay Leaves (2) – Infuses the soup with additional herbal notes while simmering.
• Dried Thyme (1 tsp) – A key herb that brings warmth and earthiness to the broth.
• Frozen Peas (1 cup) – Added towards the end for a touch of sweetness and beautiful color.
• Potatoes (2, diced) – Makes the soup heartier; ensure even cuts for uniform cooking.
• Buttery Mushrooms (optional, 200g/6oz) – Provides a luxurious touch; sauté and add in the last minutes for flavor.
This Vegetable Beef Soup covers all your comfort food cravings while making meal prep easy and delicious!
How to Make Vegetable Beef Soup
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Heat Oil: In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over high heat. Add the stewing beef in batches, browning them until well-seared. Remove to a bowl when done.
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Sauté Aromatics: If the pan looks dry, add a splash more oil. Sauté chopped onions and minced garlic for about 2 minutes, letting their fragrant aromas fill your kitchen.
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Cook Vegetables: Toss in sliced celery and carrots, stirring until the onion turns translucent. Then, sprinkle in the flour, mixing until it’s well incorporated.
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Add Broth Ingredients: Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring to dissolve the flour. Follow by incorporating red wine (or stout), water, tomato paste, bay leaves, and dried thyme, then return the beef to the pot.
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Simmer: Cover and let the soup simmer on low heat for 1 hour and 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Stir in Potatoes and Peas: Add diced potatoes and frozen peas back to the pot, then cook uncovered for an additional 20 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
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(Optional) Sauté Mushrooms: In a separate skillet, sauté the mushrooms in butter until browned. Add them to the soup in the last 5 minutes of cooking for an indulgent finish.
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Serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley, and alongside crusty bread for a complete dinner.
Optional: Top with grated Parmesan for an extra layer of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
This Vegetable Beef Soup is a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts, saving you time and effort on busy weeknights! You can chop your vegetables and brown the stewing beef up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. For an even more convenient option, the fully cooked soup can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months—just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring to containers. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the soup on the stove, adding any freshly cooked mushrooms toward the end for that delightful finishing touch. Enjoy a cozy, homemade meal in no time!
Expert Tips for Vegetable Beef Soup
- Pat Dry Beef: Ensure stewing beef is patted dry before browning it. This prevents steaming, allowing for a better sear and richer flavor.
- Brown Vegetables: Enhance the flavor by browning vegetables alongside the broth rather than just simmering them. This adds depth to your Vegetable Beef Soup.
- Alcohol Substitutions: If you’re substituting the red wine or stout, use crushed tomatoes and Worcestershire sauce to maintain a robust flavor profile.
- Adjust Cooking Times: Monitor your stove’s heat settings carefully; cooking times may vary to ensure the beef is tender but not overcooked.
- Proper Potato Cuts: Make sure to dice your potatoes evenly for consistent cooking. This ensures they’re perfectly tender and enhance the soup’s texture.
How to Store and Freeze Vegetable Beef Soup
Fridge: Store leftover Vegetable Beef Soup in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. Allow it to cool completely before refrigeration for best results.
Freezer: This soup freezes excellently for up to 3 months. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
Reheating: Thaw the soup overnight in the fridge or use a microwave for quicker thawing. Reheat in a pot over medium heat until thoroughly warmed, stirring occasionally.
Serving Tip: Add a splash of fresh broth or water when reheating to restore the soup’s creamy consistency if it thickens.
What to Serve with Vegetable Beef Soup?
There’s something magical about warming up with a hearty meal, especially when that meal is bursting with flavor.
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Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf is the perfect companion, perfect for soaking up every last drop of the savory broth.
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Cheesy Garlic Bread: The rich flavors of melted cheese and garlic complement the savory soup, adding a delightful crunch to each bite.
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Garden Salad: A fresh salad adds a crisp, vibrant contrast that brightens up the meal, balancing the richness of the soup nicely.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The caramelized edges of roasted Brussels sprouts provide a lovely texture while their earthiness pairs beautifully with the soup.
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Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes bring an extra level of comfort, offering heartiness that resonates well with the beefy flavors.
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Red Wine: A glass of red wine enhances the meal experience, tying together the wine used in the soup while elevating the flavor profile.
Enjoy pairing any of these options with your Vegetable Beef Soup, and create a delightful dining experience that warms the heart and soul!
Vegetable Beef Soup Variations
Feel free to let your creativity flow by trying out these delicious variations of the classic Vegetable Beef Soup!
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Vegetable Swap: Replace traditional vegetables with green beans, corn, or zucchini for a fresh spin. Each bite will surprise your taste buds with new textures and flavors.
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Beer Boost: Substitute red wine with a dark beer like Guinness or stout for a rich, robust flavor profile that adds depth to your broth.
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Plant-Based Option: Use lentils or chickpeas instead of stewing beef for a hearty, vegetarian version that’s just as satisfying and nutrient-rich.
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Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk right at the end for a silky-smooth texture that elevates the soup to a whole new level.
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Spice it Up: Add a kick of heat with a dash of cayenne or some diced jalapeños to cater to spice lovers; it will make every spoonful exciting!
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Herb Infusion: Try adding fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley during cooking for a fragrant twist that brightens the dish with fresh, vibrant flavors.
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Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika or chipotle peppers to add an unexpected smoky depth to your soup that will warm you from the inside out.
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Cheesy Delight: Top each bowl with freshly grated Parmesan or crumbled feta before serving; the melted cheese adds richness that perfectly complements the hearty soup.
Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best ingredients for my Vegetable Beef Soup?
Absolutely! For the best vegetable beef soup, always choose fresh, vibrant vegetables. Look for firm, unblemished potatoes and avoid any with dark spots or soft spots. When it comes to stewing beef, opt for cuts with good marbling like chuck or brisket, as they become incredibly tender during the slow cooking process. Fresh herbs, when available, can also elevate your soup’s flavor—consider using fresh thyme instead of dried.
How long can I store leftover Vegetable Beef Soup?
Very! You can safely store your Vegetable Beef Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Make sure it cools completely before placing it in the fridge to keep it fresh! When ready to enjoy, just reheat thoroughly on the stove or in the microwave until hot.
Can I freeze Vegetable Beef Soup, and if so, how?
Yes, you can! Vegetable Beef Soup freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Just portion the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Make sure to label them with the date for reference. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the microwave, then heat gently on the stove until piping hot once again.
What should I do if the soup tastes too bland?
Don’t worry; this is a common issue! If your soup lacks flavor, try adding a bit more salt, pepper, or even a splash of Worcestershire sauce for an umami boost. For an extra zest, you can also squeeze in some fresh lemon juice or sprinkle in fresh herbs right before serving. Lastly, let the soup simmer a little longer to allow the flavors to deepen; this can make a world of difference!
Are there any dietary considerations I need to be aware of with this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, you should be cautious of common allergens. This vegetable beef soup contains beef, which might not be suitable for vegetarians or those with beef allergies. For gluten-free options, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free thickener, such as cornstarch mixed with cold water. For a vegan version, replace the beef with a plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Can I customize this recipe with different vegetables?
The more, the merrier! One of the beautiful aspects of Vegetable Beef Soup is its versatility. Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables like green beans, corn, or even bell peppers. Just ensure that the vegetables you choose will cook well within the soup’s simmering time. Adding leafy greens like spinach or kale towards the end of cooking can provide extra nutrition and color!
Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe FAQs
Savory Vegetable Beef Soup with Red Wine for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over high heat. Add the stewing beef in batches, browning them until well-seared. Remove to a bowl when done.
- If the pan looks dry, add a splash more oil. Sauté chopped onions and minced garlic for about 2 minutes, letting their fragrant aromas fill your kitchen.
- Toss in sliced celery and carrots, stirring until the onion turns translucent. Then, sprinkle in the flour, mixing until it’s well incorporated.
- Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring to dissolve the flour. Follow by incorporating red wine (or stout), water, tomato paste, bay leaves, and dried thyme, then return the beef to the pot.
- Cover and let the soup simmer on low heat for 1 hour and 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Add diced potatoes and frozen peas back to the pot, then cook uncovered for an additional 20 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
- In a separate skillet, sauté the mushrooms in butter until browned. Add them to the soup in the last 5 minutes of cooking for an indulgent finish.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley, and alongside crusty bread for a complete dinner.