Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Brown the Beef: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large stock pot over medium heat. Add the beef and brown it on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. This step will give your soup a rich, beefy flavor. Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add a little more oil if needed. Toss in the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Add the Garlic and Spices: Add the minced garlic, thyme, oregano, and bay leaf. Stir for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the Broth and Beef: Return the browned beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth and water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the beef becomes tender.
- Add the Potatoes and Tomatoes: Stir in the diced potatoes and canned tomatoes. Continue simmering for another 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Add Optional Vegetables: If you're using peas or green beans, add them now and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Season: Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. If you like more herbs, feel free to add extra thyme or oregano.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls and enjoy a hearty, comforting meal!
Notes
This vegetable beef soup is incredibly versatile. You can add or remove vegetables based on what you have available, or even swap out the beef for chicken for a lighter version. The key is to make sure your vegetables are cooked to perfection and that the beef is tender and flavorful. If you like your soup thicker, you can mash some of the potatoes before serving to give it a heartier consistency.