10 Secrets To Making The Best Ground Beef Vegetable Soup – You Won’t Believe #5!

Warm up your winter evenings with a delectable bowl of homemade ground beef vegetable soup. This classic comfort food is not only easy to make but also packed with nutritious vegetables and savory ground beef, making it a perfect meal for busy families and soup enthusiasts alike. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the secrets of crafting the perfect ground beef vegetable soup, from selecting the freshest ingredients to mastering the art of simmering for maximum flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create a rich and satisfying ground beef vegetable soup, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (undrained)
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup chopped potatoes
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, brown the ground beef in olive oil until no longer pink. Drain off any excess fat.

2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

3. Add the Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.

4. Add the Vegetables and Seasonings: Add the peas, potatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.

5. Taste and Adjust Seasonings: Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as desired. You may add more salt, pepper, or herbs to your preference.

6. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve with crusty bread or crackers for dipping.

Tips for the Best Ground Beef Vegetable Soup

• Use Fresh Vegetables: Fresh vegetables will give your soup the best flavor and texture. Avoid using frozen vegetables if possible.
• Brown the Ground Beef Thoroughly: Browning the ground beef will give it a rich, savory flavor. Make sure to drain off any excess fat for a healthier soup.
• Simmer the Soup for Flavor: Simmering the soup for at least 30 minutes will allow the flavors to blend and develop. The longer you simmer, the more flavorful the soup will be.
• Add Your Favorite Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute any vegetables you like. Some popular additions include green beans, bell peppers, or corn.
• Make Ahead and Freeze: Ground beef vegetable soup is a great make-ahead meal. Simply let the soup cool completely, then store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Variations on Ground Beef Vegetable Soup

• Spicy Ground Beef Vegetable Soup: Add 1 teaspoon of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the soup for a spicy kick.
• Creamy Ground Beef Vegetable Soup: Add 1 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half to the soup for a creamy and rich texture.
• Loaded Ground Beef Vegetable Soup: Add 1 cup of cooked rice, 1 cup of cooked beans, and 1 cup of shredded cheese to the soup for a hearty and filling meal.

Health Benefits of Ground Beef Vegetable Soup

Ground beef vegetable soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Here are some of the health benefits it offers:

• Rich in Protein: Ground beef is a great source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
• High in Fiber: The vegetables in the soup provide plenty of fiber, which helps keep you feeling full and satisfied.
• Low in Calories: This soup is relatively low in calories, making it a good choice for those watching their weight.
• Boosts Immunity: The vegetables in the soup are rich in vitamins and minerals that help boost your immune system.
• Soothes Sore Throats: The warm, comforting broth can help soothe sore throats and clear congestion.

Summary: A Culinary Symphony of Warmth and Nourishment

Crafting a hearty and flavorful ground beef vegetable soup is an art form that can warm the body, nourish the soul, and bring families together. By following the simple steps and tips outlined in this guide, you can create a soup that will become a staple in your meal rotation. Whether you enjoy it as a cozy winter warmer or a quick and easy weeknight meal, ground beef vegetable soup is a culinary symphony that will delight your taste buds and leave you feeling satisfied and nourished.

Questions You May Have

How can I make my ground beef vegetable soup thicker?

• Add 1 tablespoon of cornstarch to 1/4 cup of cold water and stir until dissolved. Add the slurry to the boiling soup and cook until thickened.
• Puree 1 cup of the soup in a blender and stir it back into the pot.
• Add 1/2 cup of cooked rice or beans to the soup.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?

• Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken as a healthier alternative to ground beef. The cooking time may vary slightly.

How can I store and reheat the soup?

• Let the soup cool completely, then store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• To reheat, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight or place it in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.