Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup

This Vegetable Beef Soup is the epitome of comfort food, blending tender chunks of beef, wholesome vegetables, and a savory broth for a meal that warms you from the inside out. Slowly simmered with aromatic herbs, it’s the perfect choice for a cozy dinner or meal prep for the week. The addition of wine or stout enhances the broth’s depth, while optional buttery mushrooms add an extra layer of indulgence.

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Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 1.5 tbsp olive oil
• 500g / 1 lb stewing beef, cubed (about 2/3″)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced (about 1/3″)
• 3 carrots, sliced (around 1/5″; halve if large)
• 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2.5 cups low-sodium beef broth (625ml)
• 1.5 cups dry red wine, Guinness, or stout (375ml)
• 1.5 cups water (375ml)
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 potatoes, cubed (about 2/3″)

Optional:

• Buttery mushrooms (see instructions for preparation)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef:
Heat olive oil in a large pot over high heat. Pat the beef dry with paper towels (this helps it brown better) and season with salt and pepper. Brown the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot, then set it aside.

2. Sauté Aromatics and Veggies:
If necessary, add more oil to the pot. Sauté the onion and garlic for about 2 minutes until fragrant. Add carrots and celery, cooking until the onions turn translucent.

3. Build the Broth:
Gradually mix in the flour, ensuring there are no lumps. Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring to create a smooth base.

4. Simmer:
Add the wine or stout, water, tomato paste, bay leaves, and thyme. Return the browned beef to the pot. Cover and let it simmer over medium-low heat for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the beef is tender.

5. Add Vegetables:
Stir in the cubed potatoes and frozen peas, then continue simmering uncovered for 20 minutes. If adding buttery mushrooms (optional), stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

6. Final Touches:
Ensure the beef and potatoes are tender, then taste and adjust the seasoning. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve the soup hot with crusty bread or garlic bread.

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Tips for a Flavorful Soup

• Dry the Beef: Patting the beef dry before browning helps develop a rich, caramelized crust, enhancing the soup’s flavor.
• Choice of Alcohol: Red wine adds a deep, rich taste, while stout or Guinness provides a slightly bitter, malty depth. If you prefer to skip alcohol, substitute with more beef broth.
• Optional Buttery Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms in butter until golden brown, then add them to the soup during the final minutes for extra flavor.
• Texture Adjustment: If you prefer a thicker broth, mash a few of the potatoes directly in the pot, or simmer the soup a bit longer uncovered.

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Variations to Try

• Additional Veggies: Incorporate green beans, corn, or turnips for more variety.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a subtle kick.
• Low-Carb Option: Substitute potatoes with diced rutabaga or cauliflower for a keto-friendly version.

This hearty soup is a celebration of wholesome ingredients and slow-cooked goodness. Serve it on a chilly evening for a meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.