Are you looking for a hearty, soul-warming dish that’s packed with flavor and nutrients? My mom’s old-fashioned vegetable beef soup is the perfect recipe for you! This classic soup is a comforting blend of tender beef, a medley of fresh vegetables, and a savory broth that will bring back memories of home-cooked meals around the family table. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this vegetable beef soup is a must-try. Read on to discover how you can recreate this delicious, time-honored recipe in your own kitchen.
What is Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup?
Old-fashioned vegetable beef soup is a traditional dish that has been passed down through generations. It’s a wholesome, hearty soup made with chunks of tender beef, a variety of fresh vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and celery, and a flavorful broth that ties everything together. This soup is typically slow-cooked to allow all the ingredients to meld together, creating a rich and satisfying meal that’s perfect for cold weather or when you need a comforting dish. The recipe can vary slightly depending on what vegetables you have on hand, making it a versatile and easy-to-adapt dish that fits any season.
Ingredients List for Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup
To make my mom’s old-fashioned vegetable beef soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Beef: Choose a good-quality beef chuck roast or stew meat, cut into bite-sized cubes.
- Carrots: Peeled and sliced into rounds.
- Potatoes: Peeled and diced into bite-sized pieces.
- Celery: Chopped into small pieces.
- Onions: Diced finely.
- Tomatoes: Fresh or canned diced tomatoes work well.
- Green Beans: Fresh or frozen, cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Corn: Fresh, canned, or frozen.
- Peas: Fresh or frozen.
- Beef Broth: Homemade or store-bought.
- Tomato Paste: For added depth of flavor.
- Garlic: Minced for extra flavor.
- Bay Leaves: To enhance the aroma.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
- Olive Oil: For browning the beef.
These ingredients create a flavorful and nourishing soup that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying throughout the week. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility; you can easily swap out vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand, making it a sustainable and budget-friendly option.
Substitutions and Variations
One of the best things about my mom’s old-fashioned vegetable beef soup is how adaptable it is. You can make a variety of substitutions or add in different ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs:
- Meat Substitutions: If you’re not a fan of beef, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based protein like lentils or tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Vegetable Variations: Don’t have all the vegetables listed? No problem! This soup is very forgiving. You can add or substitute with vegetables like zucchini, parsnips, sweet potatoes, or cabbage.
- Broth Options: While beef broth provides a deep, rich flavor, you can use chicken or vegetable broth if you prefer a lighter soup.
- Herbs and Spices: Feel free to experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley. A dash of Worcestershire sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also add a unique twist.
- Grains and Pasta: For a heartier soup, consider adding barley, rice, or small pasta shapes like ditalini or orzo.
These variations allow you to make the soup your own, catering to your family’s preferences or making the most of what you have in your pantry.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making my mom’s old-fashioned vegetable beef soup is a straightforward process, but it does require some time to ensure the beef becomes tender and the flavors meld together beautifully. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by preparing all your ingredients. Cut the beef into bite-sized cubes, peel and slice the carrots, peel and dice the potatoes, chop the celery, and dice the onions. If you’re using fresh tomatoes, chop them into small pieces. Set all your vegetables aside in separate bowls.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Brown the beef on all sides, working in batches if necessary. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add a little more olive oil if needed and sauté the diced onions and minced garlic until they become soft and translucent. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Vegetables
Add the carrots, celery, and potatoes to the pot, stirring them together with the onions and garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to start softening.
Step 5: Add the Beef Back to the Pot
Return the browned beef to the pot, along with any juices that may have accumulated on the plate. Stir everything together to combine.
Step 6: Add the Broth and Tomatoes
Pour in the beef broth, making sure the ingredients are fully submerged. Add the diced tomatoes and tomato paste, stirring to combine. If you’re using canned tomatoes, you can add the juice as well for extra flavor.
Step 7: Season the Soup
Add the bay leaves, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.
Step 8: Add the Green Beans, Corn, and Peas
During the last 15-20 minutes of cooking, add the green beans, corn, and peas. If you’re using frozen vegetables, you may want to add them a bit earlier to ensure they’re fully cooked.
Step 9: Adjust the Seasoning
Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or herbs depending on your preference.
Step 10: Serve Hot
Once the soup is ready, remove the bay leaves and serve it hot. Enjoy the hearty, comforting flavors of this classic dish.
How to Cook Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking old-fashioned vegetable beef soup is a labor of love, but the result is well worth the effort. Here’s a condensed step-by-step guide for those who want a quick reference:
- Prep Ingredients: Dice vegetables and cube the beef.
- Brown Beef: Sear beef cubes in a pot with olive oil.
- Sauté Aromatics: Cook onions and garlic until soft.
- Cook Vegetables: Add carrots, celery, and potatoes.
- Combine Beef and Broth: Return beef to the pot, add broth and tomatoes.
- Simmer: Add bay leaves, season, and simmer for 1-1.5 hours.
- Add Remaining Veggies: Stir in green beans, corn, and peas.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and tweak the seasoning.
- Serve: Dish up the soup while hot.
This guide simplifies the process, making it easy to follow whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though this recipe is straightforward, there are a few common mistakes to watch out for:
- Overcrowding the Pot When Browning the Beef: This can cause the beef to steam rather than brown, resulting in less flavor. Brown the beef in batches if necessary.
- Not Simmering Long Enough: The soup needs time to develop its full flavor. Rushing the simmering process can leave the beef tough and the flavors underdeveloped.
- Adding All Vegetables at Once: Some vegetables cook faster than others. Adding them all at once can lead to mushy or overcooked veggies. Follow the steps and add vegetables in stages.
- Not Adjusting Seasoning: Taste your soup before serving. It’s crucial to adjust the salt, pepper, and other seasonings to your liking.
Avoiding these mistakes will help ensure that your soup turns out perfectly every time.
Serving and Presentation Tips
While this soup is delicious on its own, how you serve and present it can elevate the entire dining experience. Here are some tips to make your meal extra special:
How to Serve Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup
- Bread Pairing: Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread, garlic bread, or even homemade cornbread. The bread helps to soak up the flavorful broth.
- Side Salad: A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette can complement the rich flavors of the soup.
- Garnishes: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, or a dollop of sour cream on top of the soup before serving. These garnishes add a burst of flavor and a touch of color.
Presentation Ideas for Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup
- Serve in Rustic Bowls: Use rustic, earthenware bowls to give the soup a homey, old-fashioned feel.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme adds a pop of color and freshness.
- Add a Drizzle of Olive Oil: A light drizzle of good-quality olive oil can enhance the flavor and add a touch of elegance to the dish.
- Use a Wooden Serving Board: Serve the soup with bread on a wooden board for a warm, inviting presentation.
These presentation tips will not only make the soup look appetizing but also add a bit of flair to your meal, making it feel like a special occasion even if it’s just a regular weeknight dinner.
Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe Tips
Here are a few additional tips to ensure your soup turns out perfect every time:
- Make it Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Make it a day ahead and reheat for an even more flavorful meal.
- Freeze Leftovers: This soup freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep. Freeze in individual portions for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
- Use a Slow Cooker: If you prefer a hands-off approach, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic first, then add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Low and Slow Cooking: The key to tender beef and rich flavors is to cook the soup low and slow. Avoid high heat to prevent the beef from becoming tough.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use ground beef instead of beef cubes?
Yes, ground beef can be used as a substitute for beef cubes. However, the texture of the soup will be different. Brown the ground beef first, drain any excess fat, and then proceed with the recipe.
How can I thicken the soup?
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes in the pot or stir in a slurry made from cornstarch and cold water during the last few minutes of cooking.
How long does the soup last in the fridge?
The soup can last up to 4-5 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. Reheat only the portion you plan to eat to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Yes, this soup is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free beef broth. Always check labels to ensure no hidden gluten in any of the ingredients.
What’s the best way to reheat the soup?
Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through. You can also microwave it in individual portions for a quick meal.
Conclusion
My mom’s old-fashioned vegetable beef soup is a timeless recipe that brings together the comfort of home-cooked meals with the warmth of shared memories. It’s a versatile, nourishing dish that can be customized to suit your taste and preferences. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Don’t wait for a special occasion—try making this delicious soup today and experience the joy of a classic family recipe that never goes out of style. Enjoy!
PrintMy Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe
My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is a classic, hearty dish loaded with tender beef, fresh vegetables, and a rich, savory broth. Perfect for a comforting family meal, this soup is simple to make and packed with nutritious ingredients. The slow simmering allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it an ideal choice for cozy dinners.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef stew meat, cubed
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 large carrots, sliced
- 3 potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add beef and cook until browned on all sides.
- Add onion, garlic, and celery, and sauté until softened.
- Pour in beef broth, and add carrots, potatoes, diced tomatoes, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5 hours until beef is tender.
- Stir in green beans and corn. Continue to simmer for an additional 20-30 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove bay leaf before serving.
Notes
- For a deeper flavor, sear the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Feel free to add or substitute your favorite vegetables.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
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