Cold Day Soup
Cold Day Soup is a hearty, comforting dish bursting with rich tomato flavors, tender ground beef, and fresh vegetables. Perfect for chilly days, it offers a savory, satisfying meal with a hint of herbs and seasonings. Ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings, it warms both body and soul.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a Dutch oven or large pot, brown the ground beef and chopped onions; drain excess fat.
- Add the canned stewed tomatoes, tomato paste, and seasonings; bring to a boil.
- Stir in the frozen corn and chopped celery.
- Reduce heat to simmer, cover, and cook for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Best if simmered longer for fuller flavor.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier soup, consider adding beans or lentils for extra protein and fiber. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you prefer a thicker consistency, blend a portion of the soup. This recipe is versatile; feel free to include additional vegetables like bell peppers or carrots. For a different flavor, try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this comforting Cold Day Soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of grated cheese on top adds a delightful touch. This dish pairs beautifully with Savory Pork Chops for a heartier dinner option. For a fun twist, consider serving it with Hanky Pankies as a side for a casual gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating. Freezing is an option too; just ensure the soup cools completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cold Day Soup contains roughly 301 calories, with 6g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value), iron (24% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1503mg per serving (65% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! You'll need about 6-8 medium tomatoes, peeled and chopped. Just keep in mind that fresh tomatoes may require more cooking time to break down and develop flavor compared to canned stewed tomatoes.
Is it possible to make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the ground beef and onions first, then transfer them to a slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully over a longer cooking period.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Certainly! Replace the ground beef with a plant-based alternative or use diced vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini for texture. You can also add lentils or beans for protein. Ensure you use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a fully vegetarian option.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).