Here’s a hearty beef and vegetable soup—lighter than stew but still rich, filling, and perfect for a comforting meal:
🍲 Hearty Beef & Vegetable Soup
🧾 Ingredients
- 500–700 g (1–1.5 lb) beef (chuck or stewing beef), cut into small cubes
- 1 tbsp oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 potatoes, diced
- 1 cup cabbage, chopped (optional but great for heartiness)
- 1 cup green beans or peas
- 1 can (or 2 fresh) tomatoes, chopped
- 5–6 cups beef broth (or water + stock cubes)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme or mixed herbs
- 1 bay leaf
🔪 Instructions
1. Brown the beef
Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Sear the beef until browned—this builds flavor.
2. Sauté aromatics
Add onion and cook until soft. Stir in garlic for about 30 seconds.
3. Build the soup
Add carrots, celery, potatoes, tomatoes, and cabbage.
4. Add liquid & seasoning
Pour in broth, then stir in tomato paste, salt, pepper, herbs, and bay leaf.
5. Simmer
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer:
- 45–60 minutes (until beef is tender)
6. Add final veggies
Add green beans or peas in the last 10–15 minutes.
🍽️ Tips for Extra Heartiness
- Add a handful of barley or pasta for a more filling soup
- Stir in a little corn for sweetness
- For deeper flavor, add a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce
- If you like spice, add chili flakes or fresh green chili 🌶️
🥖 Serving Ideas
- Fresh naan or roti
- Toasted bread with butter
- A squeeze of lemon for brightness before serving
If you want, I can turn this into a slow cooker version, pressure cooker (Instant Pot) version, or a desi-style beef soup with stronger spices.
