My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is the ultimate comfort food for any occasion. This hearty soup is not just easy to make but also packed with flavor and nutrition. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, it warms hearts and fills bellies. With its blend of tender beef and vibrant vegetables, this recipe stands out as a timeless classic that will remind you of home-cooked meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this soup can be made even by beginner cooks.
• Freezer Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for quick meals later on.
• Flavorful Comfort: The combination of beef broth, tomato soup, and fresh veggies creates a rich flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever vegetables you have on hand; this soup adapts easily to your preferences.
• Nutritious Meal: Packed with protein and fiber, it’s a healthy option that doesn’t skimp on taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the preparation smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Ideal for tenderizing the pot roast over several hours without constant monitoring.
• Large pot: Necessary for combining all ingredients efficiently while allowing enough space to stir.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 pot roast (about 2 pounds)
• 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
• 1 (32 oz) container beef broth
• 2 (10.75 oz) cans tomato soup
• 1 can filled with water
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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

Step 1: Prepare the Pot Roast

1. Season the 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 tender. Shred the meat using two forks.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

1. In a very large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat.
2. Add the carrots and frozen seasoning blend; sauté until tender.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Add the shredded beef to the pot along with the chopped potatoes, remaining frozen veggies, remaining beef broth, tomato soup, and water.
2. Season with additional salt and pepper as desired.

Step 4: Cook the Soup

1. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Lower the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about an hour.
3. Stir occasionally and add water if needed during cooking.

Enjoy your bowl of My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup! It’s sure to become a staple in your household just like it was in mine.

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

Serving My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is a delightful experience. This hearty soup can be enjoyed in various ways, making it perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette – The crunch of a fresh baguette pairs beautifully with the soup’s richness.
• Garlic Bread – A buttery garlic bread adds a flavorful twist that complements the soup.

Topped with Cheese

• Shredded Cheddar – A sprinkle of sharp cheddar on top enhances the flavor and adds creaminess.
• Parmesan Shavings – For a gourmet touch, add some shaved Parmesan just before serving.

In a Bread Bowl

• Sourdough Bowl – Serve the soup in a hollowed-out sourdough loaf for a fun and edible presentation.

With Crackers

• Saltines – Classic saltine crackers offer a crunchy contrast to the soup.
• Cheese Crackers – These add an extra layer of flavor that goes well with the hearty ingredients.

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

To ensure your soup is as delicious as possible, follow these tips. They will help you elevate your cooking game and make each bowl even better.

• Choose Quality Ingredients – Using fresh vegetables and high-quality beef broth can significantly enhance flavor.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually – Taste as you go; this allows you to find the perfect balance of salt and spices.
• Let It Simmer Longer – Allowing the soup to simmer for extra time melds the flavors beautifully.
• Use Leftover Roast Beef – If you have leftover roast, it can save time and add depth to your soup.

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

Pairing side dishes with My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement this comforting dish perfectly.

1. Garden Salad – A light garden salad with vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
2. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread is a classic choice that adds warmth and sweetness to your meal.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies provide additional nutrients and vibrant colors on your plate.
4. Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges are an excellent option for those who enjoy an extra crunch alongside their soup.
5. Stuffed Peppers – These can be filled with rice or quinoa, adding protein and making for a filling side.
6. Biscuits – Fluffy biscuits are perfect for dipping into the rich broth of your vegetable beef soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup can be a joy, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Overcooking the beef: Cooking the roast too long can make it tough instead of tender. Stick to the recommended low and slow cooking method.
• Ignoring seasoning: Not seasoning at each step can lead to bland soup. Season your meat and vegetables as you go for better flavor.
• Using too many frozen veggies: While frozen vegetables are convenient, using too many can dilute the soup’s flavor. Balance fresh and frozen produce for richness.
• Skipping the broth: Using only water may leave your soup lacking in depth. Always use beef broth for a more robust taste.
• Not allowing time to simmer: Rushing through the simmering stage means missing out on flavors melding together. Let it simmer for at least an hour.

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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 for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring you remove excess air.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

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, and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Transfer soup into a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup.

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

Yes! Feel free to add different vegetables or spices according to your preference.

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

The total time is about 11 hours, including a 10-hour cook time and 1-hour simmering.

What can I serve with My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup?

This hearty soup pairs well with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Is this vegetable beef soup healthy?

Absolutely! It contains nutritious vegetables and lean beef, making it a wholesome choice.

Final Thoughts

My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the recipe by adding your favorite veggies or spices. Give this delightful recipe a try; it’s sure to warm your heart and fill your belly!