Vegetable beef soup is a beloved dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. This recipe, which combines tender chunks of beef with a rich, herb-infused broth, is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create something truly special. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting bowl of soup on a cold day, this vegetable beef soup is sure to satisfy your cravings.
The Secret Ingredient: Red Wine or Beer
What sets this vegetable beef soup apart from the rest is the addition of red wine, beer, or stout. These ingredients add a depth of flavor that elevates the soup from ordinary to extraordinary. While the alcohol cooks out during the simmering process, it leaves behind a complex, savory taste that enhances the overall richness of the broth. Using red wine gives the soup a classic beef stew flavor, while Guinness or stout adds a more intense, deep flavor reminiscent of Irish beef stew.
This method of cooking allows you to enjoy the complexity of the soup without spending hours simmering like you would with a traditional beef stew. Even without the wine, the broth still delivers a delicious, hearty flavor that's perfect for any occasion.
How to Make Vegetable Beef Soup
The key to making a great vegetable beef soup lies in the preparation of the beef. Browning the meat aggressively in olive oil adds a layer of flavor that infuses the entire dish. Once the beef is browned, you'll add the aromatics—onion, garlic, celery, and carrots—to build a flavorful base.
After the beef is browned, you'll add flour to the pot to help thicken the broth slightly, creating a texture similar to gravy. Then, pour in the beef broth, red wine (or beer), water, tomato paste, bay leaves, and dried thyme. Let the mixture simmer for about an hour and fifteen minutes until the beef becomes tender.
Once the beef is cooked, add the potatoes and peas, and continue simmering for another twenty minutes. If you're using mushrooms, sauté them in butter before adding them to the soup for an extra burst of flavor.
What Goes Into the Soup?
The ingredients in this vegetable beef soup are simple but essential. You'll need:
- Stewing beef (cut into small pieces)
- Red wine, stout, or beer
- Onion, garlic, celery, and carrots
- Flour
- Beef broth
- Tomato paste
- Bay leaves and thyme
- Potatoes and peas
- Optional: Buttery mushrooms
The combination of these ingredients creates a balanced and flavorful soup that's both satisfying and nutritious. The addition of frozen peas and potatoes ensures that the soup is packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy choice for any meal.
Serving Suggestions
This vegetable beef soup is a complete meal on its own, but you can also pair it with crusty bread, cheesy garlic bread, or even a side of Irish soda bread. The soup also freezes well, so you can make a double batch and enjoy it later.
If you're looking for a more substantial meal, consider adding some of your favorite vegetables like green beans, cabbage, or cauliflower. These additions can enhance the texture and flavor of the soup while making it even more filling.
Tips for Success
To ensure the best results when making this vegetable beef soup, here are a few tips:
- Use high-quality beef that's nicely marbled with fat for the best flavor.
- Don't skip the browning step—it adds a lot of depth to the soup.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding salt and pepper as needed.
- If you're using a slow cooker, simply follow the same steps but cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Conclusion
Vegetable beef soup is a versatile and comforting dish that's perfect for any season. With its rich, herb-infused broth and tender chunks of beef, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal. Whether you're cooking for yourself or your family, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
