My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is a comforting dish that warms the heart and nourishes the soul. This easy soup recipe combines tender beef with a medley of vegetables, creating a wholesome meal perfect for family gatherings or chilly nights. The best part? It’s simple enough to make on a weekday, yet flavorful enough to impress guests. You can even make extra to freeze for later, making it an ideal choice for meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation – With just 10 hours of slow cooking, you can set it and forget it until dinner time.
• Delicious Flavor – The combination of tender beef and fresh veggies creates a rich taste that warms you from the inside out.
• Versatile Ingredients – Use whatever frozen vegetables you have on hand; this recipe adapts easily to your pantry staples.
• Healthier Choice – Packed with nutrients from veggies, this soup is a heart-healthy option for any meal.
• Family-Friendly – Kids love the hearty goodness, while adults appreciate the comforting flavors.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup a breeze. Gather your kitchen essentials before diving into this delightful recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large pot
• Chopping knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker – Ideal for achieving tender beef without constant supervision; simply set it and let it do the work.
• Large pot – Perfect for blending all ingredients together while ensuring even cooking and ample space.
• Chopping knife – A good knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, saving you prep time.

Ingredients

My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is one of my all-time favorite soup recipes. It’s super simple homemade soup recipe and makes enough to freeze!

Meat

• 1 pot roast (about 2 pounds)

Vegetables

• 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

Liquids

• 1 (32 oz) container beef broth
• 2 (10.75 oz) cans tomato soup
• 1 can filled with water

Seasoning

• Salt and pepper, to taste

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

Step 1: Prepare the Roast

1. Season your pot roast generously with salt and pepper.
2. Place the seasoned roast in your slow cooker along with half a can of beef broth.
3. Cook on LOW for about 10 hours until the meat is fork-tender. Shred the beef using two forks when done.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In a very large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped carrots and your frozen seasoning mix.
3. Sauté until they are tender, which should take about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Add the shredded beef into the large pot along with the remaining chopped vegetables: potatoes, peas, green beans, and corn.
2. Pour in the remaining beef broth, both cans of tomato soup, and fill one can with water to add.
3. Season with salt and pepper as desired; stir well to combine.

Step 4: Simmer Your Soup

1. Bring your mixture to a boil over high heat.
2. Once boiling, lower the heat to simmer.
3. Cover and let cook for about an hour, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Adjust Consistency

1. As your soup cooks, feel free to add more water if you prefer a thinner consistency.
2. Taste before serving; adjust seasoning if necessary.

Now enjoy a warm bowl of My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup!

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

Serving My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup can be a delightful experience. This hearty soup is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Pair the soup with a warm, crusty baguette for dipping.
• Garlic Bread: Serve slices of buttery garlic bread to complement the robust flavors of the soup.

Topped With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh, vibrant touch.
• Thyme Sprigs: Add a few sprigs of thyme for an aromatic finish that elevates the dish.

Accompanied by a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds crunch and balances the warmth of the soup.
• Garden Salad: A simple garden salad with vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast.

Served in Individual Bowls

• Personalized Bowls: Serve the soup in individual bowls for a charming presentation at dinner parties.

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

To achieve the best flavor and texture in My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup, follow these essential tips.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Start with high-quality beef and fresh vegetables for maximum flavor.
• Slow Cook for Tenderness: Allow the beef to cook slowly to ensure it is tender and easy to shred.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go; adding more salt, pepper, or herbs can elevate your soup.
• Let It Simmer: After adding all ingredients, let it simmer longer to meld the flavors together beautifully.
• Store Properly: Store leftovers in airtight containers; this soup freezes well for future meals.

Best Side Dishes for My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

Pairing side dishes with My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup enhances your dining experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread complements the savory flavors of the soup perfectly.
2. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Classic grilled cheese sandwiches are always a hit and great for dipping.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add texture and nutrition alongside your soup.
4. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges provide a satisfying crunch and heartiness to your meal.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers make for an exciting side that pairs well with soup.
6. Rice Pilaf: Light and fluffy rice pilaf adds a nice contrast in texture while soaking up broth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup can be a joy, but it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning – Not seasoning your ingredients properly can result in bland soup. Always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving.
• Overcooking the vegetables – Cooking veggies too long can make them mushy. Add them at the right time to maintain their texture.
• Not using enough broth – Using too little broth can lead to a dry soup. Make sure to follow the recipe for a perfect balance of flavors.
• Ignoring ingredient quality – Low-quality ingredients can ruin your soup. Use fresh or high-quality frozen vegetables for the best taste.
• Neglecting storage tips – Improper storage can spoil your soup quickly. Follow storage guidelines to keep it fresh longer.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup in an airtight container.
• It will last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 30 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup special?

This recipe is special because it combines hearty beef with vibrant vegetables, creating a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Can I customize My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers, or even switch out the beef for chicken or turkey if desired.

How do I make My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup healthier?

To make it healthier, consider reducing the amount of salt used and adding more fresh vegetables. You could also use low-sodium broth.

How long does it take to make My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup?

The total time includes about 10 hours of slow cooking for the roast and an additional hour of simmering once everything is combined.

Final Thoughts

My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is not just a dish; it’s a comforting embrace on chilly days. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins. I encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy its heartwarming flavors that bring family together.