Description of this recipe
Hearty, comforting, and packed with flavor, this classic soup is perfect for chilly days. With simple ingredients and big taste, it offers a warm hug in every bite!
Why you will love this recipe
This Cozy Vegetable Beef Noodle Soup is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of warmth and comfort. It combines tender chunks of beef, vibrant vegetables, and hearty noodles in a rich, flavorful broth. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, this soup is easy to prepare and sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover vegetables you have on hand, making it both delicious and resourceful!
Introduction
When the temperatures drop and the days grow shorter, there’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of soup to bring comfort and warmth. This Cozy Vegetable Beef Noodle Soup is the ultimate remedy for chilly evenings, combining tender beef, fresh vegetables, and hearty noodles in a savory broth. Not only is this soup delicious, but it also fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that beckons everyone to the dinner table. Whether you’re looking for a nourishing meal for your family or a dish to impress your guests, this recipe is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) beef stew meat (cut into small pieces)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 3 carrots (peeled and sliced)
- 3 celery stalks (sliced)
- 2 potatoes (peeled and diced)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 6 cups beef broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup frozen green beans
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 cups egg noodles (or pasta of your choice)
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Preparation:
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat and cook until browned on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside on a plate.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and sliced celery. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes, or until they begin to soften. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings
Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the can of diced tomatoes (with their juices), beef broth, water, dried thyme, dried basil, dried oregano, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for about 45 minutes. This slow cooking will allow the beef to become tender and the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 5: Add Vegetables and Noodles
After 45 minutes, add the diced potatoes, frozen green beans, corn, and peas to the pot. Let the soup simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender. Meanwhile, in a separate pot, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Once the vegetables are tender, stir the cooked noodles into the soup. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
This Cozy Vegetable Beef Noodle Soup is perfect on its own, but you can elevate your meal by serving it with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls for dipping. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette can also complement the richness of the soup beautifully. For a bit of heat, consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to your bowl.
Tips:
- Beef Selection: Choose a good quality beef stew meat with some marbling for tenderness. Cuts like chuck roast work wonderfully.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand. Bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach can be great additions.
- Make It Ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen as it sits!
- Freezing: To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop, adding a little extra broth if needed.
- Herb Freshness: Fresh herbs can be used instead of dried for a brighter flavor. Add them towards the end of cooking for the best results.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: Approx. 400
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 600mg
Conclusion
This Cozy Vegetable Beef Noodle Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a heartwarming experience that brings friends and family together. With its rich flavors and satisfying ingredients, it’s the perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re warming up after a long day or entertaining guests, this soup is sure to be a hit. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a comforting bowl of goodness that will warm your soul!
Questions and Answers
1. Can I use other types of meat in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute beef with other meats such as chicken or turkey. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken cooks faster than beef.
2. How can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and omit the meat. Add more beans or lentils for protein.
3. Can I add more spices to enhance the flavor?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with spices like paprika, cumin, or even a bay leaf for additional depth of flavor.
4. What is the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup for up to 3 months.
5. How can I make this soup gluten-free?
To make this soup gluten-free, use gluten-free noodles or omit the noodles altogether and serve the soup over rice instead.
