Hearty Beef & Vegetable Soup: A Comforting Classic for Every Season

Optional Add-Ins:

• ½ cup barley or pasta for extra heartiness

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce for umami richness

• A dash of red wine or balsamic vinegar for depth of flavor

🔪 Preparation

Step 1: Brown the Beef

1. Pat the beef cubes dry with paper towels (this helps them sear properly).

2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.

3. Add half the beef and sear until browned on all sides, about 4–5 minutes. Remove and repeat with the remaining beef, adding more oil if needed.

4. Set all browned beef aside — don’t worry about cooking it through just yet.

💡 Tip: Browning builds flavor. Don’t rush this step — those caramelized bits at the bottom (fond) are pure gold for your soup base.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

1. In the same pot, reduce heat to medium.

2. Add onion, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened (about 5 minutes).

3. Stir in the garlic and tomato paste, cooking for another minute to bring out the sweetness of the tomato.

Step 3: Build the Broth

1. Pour in beef broth and diced tomatoes (with their juice), scraping the bottom of the pot to release all those delicious browned bits.

2. Return the seared beef to the pot.

3. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, thyme, parsley, smoked paprika, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper.

Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1 to 1½ hours, or until the beef becomes fork-tender.

Step 4: Add the Vegetables

1. Add potatoes and green beans to the pot. Continue simmering for 20–25 minutes, until the potatoes are soft.

2. Add peas and corn (and barley or pasta if using) during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

Taste and adjust seasoning — you may want a bit more salt, pepper, or even a dash of soy sauce for extra savory depth.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if you like.

Serve it with crusty bread, buttermilk biscuits, or buttered rolls to soak up the rich broth.

🍽 Presentation & Serving Suggestions

• Rustic Style: Serve in deep bowls with a sprig of thyme and cracked pepper on top for a cozy farmhouse look.

• Garnish It Up: A swirl of olive oil or a dusting of Parmesan gives it a restaurant-worthy touch.

• Add a Side: Pair with a crisp green salad or a warm slice of garlic bread for a complete meal.

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