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Cozy Beef and Vegetable Soup

beef and vegetable soup - featured image

A hearty and comforting beef and vegetable soup recipe perfect for cozy Sundays, featuring tender beef, fresh vegetables, and a rich homemade broth simmered to perfection.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
  • 6 cups beef broth, homemade or low-sodium store-bought
  • 2 cups water
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced into rounds
  • 3 celery stalks, sliced
  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes (Russet or Yukon Gold)
  • 1 medium onion, diced (yellow or sweet onion)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Freshly ground black pepper (for finishing)

Instructions

  1. Pat the beef cubes dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  2. Working in batches, brown the beef cubes on all sides until a rich crust forms, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Transfer browned beef to a plate and set aside.
  3. Lower heat to medium. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook 1 more minute, careful not to burn it.
  4. Pour in about ½ cup of beef broth or water and scrape the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to release browned bits.
  5. Return beef to the pot. Pour in remaining beef broth and water. Add bay leaves and thyme. Stir gently and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
  6. Reduce heat to low and partially cover the pot. Let simmer gently for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until beef is tender and flavors meld.
  7. Add cubed potatoes and simmer uncovered for another 20 minutes or until potatoes are cooked through but not mushy. Toss in frozen peas in the last 5 minutes if using.
  8. Remove bay leaves. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over each bowl before serving.

Notes

If broth reduces too much during simmering, add a splash of water to prevent thickening. Avoid overcooking vegetables to maintain texture. For freezing, omit potatoes and add fresh ones when reheating. Browning beef is essential for flavor. Use a wooden spoon to deglaze pot thoroughly.

Nutrition

Keywords: beef soup, vegetable soup, comfort food, homemade soup, Sunday dinner, hearty soup, easy soup recipe