My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy, heartwarming dish to share with loved ones, then look no further! My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is a cherished recipe that warms the soul. This soup brings back memories of family gatherings and rainy days spent indoors. It’s not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl! Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with something simple yet delicious.

What I love most about this soup is its versatility. You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand or what your family enjoys. Plus, it makes a big batch, so you can freeze leftovers for those days when cooking feels like too much. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a pot of delicious soup simmering on the stove.
• Family-friendly appeal: This hearty soup is packed with veggies and flavor that even picky eaters will love.
• Make-ahead convenience: It freezes beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep or last-minute dinners.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of tender beef and fresh vegetables creates a comforting taste that’s hard to resist.
• Nourishing ingredients: Packed with wholesome veggies and lean protein, it’s a healthy choice for any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is all about using simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Soup

• 1 pot roast (about 2 pounds)
• 2 russet potatoes, chopped
• 1 bag frozen seasoning blend (or just chopped onions)
• 1 bag frozen peas
• 1 bag frozen green beans
• 1 bag frozen corn
• 4 large carrots, chopped
• 1 (32 oz) container beef broth
• 2 (10.75 oz) cans tomato soup
• 1 can filled with water
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Variations

What I love about this recipe is how flexible it can be! You don’t have to stick strictly to the ingredients listed — feel free to get creative! Here are some ideas to personalize your soup:

• Swap the protein: Instead of pot roast, try using stew beef or even chicken if that’s what you have on hand.
• Add more veggies: Sneak in extra greens like spinach or kale for added nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, toss in some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a kick.
• Change the broth: For a lighter option, use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

How to Make My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Roast

Season your roast generously with salt and pepper. Place it in your slow cooker along with half a can of beef broth. Cooking it low and slow for about 10 hours makes the meat incredibly tender and easy to shred later.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

In a very large pot, heat up 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped carrots and your seasoning mix. Sauté them until they become tender. This step enhances their natural sweetness and builds great flavor right from the start!

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add shredded beef from the slow cooker, chopped potatoes, frozen peas, green beans, corn, remaining beef broth, tomato soup, water, salt, and pepper into your large pot. Stir everything well so that all those lovely flavors mix together.

Step 4: Simmer Away

Bring your mixture to a boil before lowering the heat. Cover and let it simmer for about an hour. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together while keeping your kitchen smelling divine!

Step 5: Adjust Consistency

As your soup cooks, feel free to add more water if you’d like a thinner consistency. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed—this is where you can make it just perfect for your palate!

With these steps completed, you’re well on your way to enjoying My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup! It’s sure to become a favorite at your table just like it has at mine!

Pro Tips for Making My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

Making this soup is a breeze, but a few handy tips can take it from good to unforgettable!

• Choose the Right Cut of Beef: Opting for a pot roast ensures a tender and flavorful result. The marbling in this cut breaks down beautifully during cooking, giving your soup that rich, hearty taste.

• Fresh Vegetables Matter: While frozen veggies work well, adding fresh carrots or potatoes can enhance the soup’s texture and flavor. Fresh vegetables retain their nutrients better and provide a lovely crunch.

• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Start with less salt and pepper, then adjust as it simmers. This method allows you to control the flavor without overwhelming the dish right from the start.

• Simmer Longer for Depth of Flavor: If time allows, let your soup simmer longer than an hour. The flavors meld beautifully over time, creating a more complex and satisfying taste experience.

• Freeze Leftovers Wisely: This soup freezes wonderfully! Allow it to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers or freezer bags. Label them with the date so you can enjoy it later!

How to Serve My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

Serving this delightful soup is all about presentation and pairing! Here are some ideas to make your meal even more special.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, adding red pepper flakes enhances the flavor profile perfectly without overpowering the soup.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: A loaf of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into your soup. It adds a satisfying crunch that complements the soft textures of the soup.
• Garden Salad: A simple garden salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers provides a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the soup.
• Cheesy Garlic Bread: This indulgent side brings together melted cheese and garlic butter on toasted bread – who could say no to that?
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and nutrients while balancing out the meal with its lightness.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your bowl of My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup will be nothing short of spectacular! Enjoy every comforting spoonful.

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe for My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious homemade soup throughout the week. With its hearty ingredients and comforting flavors, it’s a great way to ensure you always have a nutritious meal on hand.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it into airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label the containers with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Cool the soup thoroughly before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe bags or containers to prevent freezer burn.
• Leave some space at the top of containers as the soup will expand when frozen.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in short intervals, stirring between each interval, until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup.

Can I make My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup without beef?

Absolutely! You can substitute the beef with plant-based protein or even skip it altogether for a vegetarian version while keeping all of those delicious vegetables.

How long does My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup last in the fridge?

When stored properly, this soup can last in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Just remember to let it cool completely before placing it in an airtight container.

Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Certainly! Feel free to customize your My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup with seasonal veggies or any favorites you have on hand. Just make sure they are chopped into similar sizes for even cooking!

What can I serve with My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh side salad. It’s also delightful alongside a light sandwich for a comforting meal.

Is this soup suitable for freezing?

Yes, My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup freezes beautifully! Just follow the freezing instructions above to enjoy it later without losing flavor or texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup as much as I do! This recipe holds a special place in my heart and is perfect for warming up on chilly days or sharing with loved ones. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your vegetable choices and make it your own. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with warmth and laughter!

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