why make this recipe
My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is a timeless dish that brings warmth and comfort with every spoonful. It combines hearty beef with vibrant vegetables, making it a complete meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
This soup is not only easy to prepare, but it also delivers the flavors of home-cooked goodness. It’s perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you want a taste of nostalgia. Each bowl is a reminder of simpler times, making it a wonderful addition to your cooking repertoire.
equipment needed for My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup
To make My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup, you’ll need a few kitchen tools. A slow cooker is essential for cooking the meat to perfection. You should also have a large pot for simmering the soup, as well as some cutting boards and knives for chopping your vegetables. Measuring cups and spoons will help ensure you get the ratios just right for a perfect outcome.
What You Need to Make My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup
- 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 Cook My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup Step by Step
Begin by seasoning the pot roast with salt and pepper. This step enhances the flavor of the meat. Next, place the seasoned roast into your slow cooker, adding half a can of beef broth around it. Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat, allowing the roast to cook for about 10 hours. Once cooked, use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.
While the roast is cooking, take a very large pot and heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped carrots and the frozen seasoning mix. Sauté these ingredients together until they reach a tender state. This step releases their natural sweetness and builds a strong flavor base for your soup.
After the carrots and seasoning mix are tender, add the shredded beef along with the chopped potatoes, frozen peas, green beans, and corn. Pour in the remaining beef broth and both cans of tomato soup. Add one can filled with water to ensure the soup has the right consistency. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to your taste and give it a good stir to combine all the ingredients.
Once everything is combined, increase the heat to bring the pot to a gentle boil. Once boiling, lower the heat and cover the pot with a lid. Allow it to simmer for about an hour. During this time, the flavors will deepen and the vegetables will soften beautifully. If you find the soup gets too thick for your liking, don’t hesitate to add more water as needed while it cooks.
how to make My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup
Making My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is a straightforward process that doesn’t take much time once your roast is done in the slow cooker. The secret lies in layering the flavors properly. Start with the beef, then add in the vegetables gradually, and use the broth and tomato soup to create a rich and comforting base.
The slow cooking of the roast is what truly makes this dish special. It allows the beef to become impossibly tender and infuses the broth with irresistible flavor. When you add in the vegetables and let everything simmer together, you’re rewarded with a dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
how to serve My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup
When serving My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup, ladle generous portions into bowls. You can garnish each bowl with fresh herbs like parsley or a sprinkle of pepper for a touch of color and flavor. The bright green of the herbs contrasts beautifully with the earthy tones of the soup.
Consider serving the soup with warm, crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. The bread is perfect for dipping, soaking up the delicious broth while adding texture to your dining experience.
what to serve with My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup
To make your meal even heartier, consider serving your soup with some classic sides. A side of buttery cornbread complements the flavors of the soup wonderfully. Alternatively, a simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette can add freshness to the meal.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you might also serve it with grilled cheese sandwiches. The savory warmth of the soup pairs perfectly with gooey cheese, creating a comforting duo that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
how to store My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup
Storing My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is simple. Once the soup has cooled to room temperature, transfer it into airtight containers. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
If you want to save some for later, consider freezing individual portions. The soup freezes wonderfully, and you can thaw it for a quick meal in the future. Make sure to use freezer-safe containers and label them with the date for your convenience.
tips to make My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup
To elevate your soup even more, consider using fresh herbs along with the dry spices. Adding a bay leaf during the simmering process can deepen the flavor. You can also experiment with other vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand, such as zucchini or spinach.
Adjust the consistency of the soup based on personal preference. If you like it thicker, you can reduce the amount of broth or add more potatoes. For a thinner soup, simply add more water or broth until it reaches your desired consistency.
variation
While this recipe is a classic, there are plenty of ways to put your own twist on it. For a spicy kick, you can add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. If your family prefers a creamier soup, consider adding a cup of heavy cream or milk just before serving.
You can also make a lighter version using turkey instead of beef. Just follow the same steps, and you’ll have a delicious turkey vegetable soup that’s equally comforting!
best time to make My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup
My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is ideal for fall and winter months when the weather turns chilly. It makes for a perfect dinner on cold evenings or holidays when family gathers around the table. However, it’s also a great dish to serve anytime you crave a hearty, warming meal throughout the year.
common mistakes to avoid
One common mistake is not seasoning the meat adequately before cooking. Take your time with the seasoning to ensure every layer of the dish is flavorful. Another mistake is overcrowding the pot, which can lead to uneven cooking. Stick to the ingredient quantities and avoid cramming too much into your slow cooker or pot.
Lastly, don’t skip the simmering step! Letting the soup simmer lets the flavors meld beautifully, so don’t rush this process if you want the full effect of the dish.
nutritional notes
My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients. The vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals, while the beef offers protein and iron. It’s a balanced meal that can be particularly beneficial during the cold months.
Consider pairing it with whole-grain bread or a salad for added fiber and nutrients. This can further enhance the health profile of the meal.
FAQs
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh vegetables! Just make sure to chop them into similar bite-sized pieces so that they cook evenly.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it to preserve freshness.
Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! This soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Just reheat it on the stove until heated through before serving.
conclusion
My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s a dish filled with memories and warmth. By following these straightforward steps, you can create a comforting meal that delights your family and brings everyone together around the table. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a gathering of loved ones, this soup is always a great choice. So gather the ingredients, grab your favorite pot, and let the cozy cooking begin!
