My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

There’s something comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it harkens back to our childhood. My mom’s old-fashioned vegetable beef soup is a delightful blend of robust flavors and nostalgia. This hearty dish has a way of making any day feel a little brighter, and its recipe is passed down through generations, much like cherished family stories.

Ingredients

To recreate this timeless dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 1 pound beef chuck roast (cut into 1-inch cubes)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion (chopped)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 4 carrots (sliced)
  • 3 celery stalks (sliced)
  • 3 potatoes (peeled and diced)
  • 1 cup green beans (trimmed and cut)
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
  • 6 cups beef broth
  • 2 teaspoons dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • A splash of Worcestershire sauce
  • Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Preparing the Meat

  1. Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and season with salt and pepper. Brown the meat on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.

Sautéing the Vegetables

  1. Cook the Aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, making sure not to let it burn.

  2. Add the Veggies: Stir in the sliced carrots, celery, and diced potatoes. Cook for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.

Creating the Soup

  1. Combine Ingredients: Return the browned beef to the pot along with the green beans, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Stir to combine.

  2. Season: Add the dried thyme, rosemary, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Simmering the Soup

  1. Low and Slow: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

The Final Touch

  1. Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

  2. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

Conclusion

This old-fashioned vegetable beef soup is not just a meal; it’s a family tradition that warms the heart and fills the stomach. Each spoonful reminds me of cozy family dinners, laughter, and stories shared over the dinner table. So, whether it’s a chilly day or you’re just reminiscing about home, this soup is sure to bring comfort and joy. Enjoy your cooking, and remember the love that goes into every pot!