Cold Weather Soup
Warm and hearty, this vegetable and beef soup is perfect for cold weather, offering comforting flavors with tomatoes, potatoes, and mixed vegetables in a savory broth.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Begin cooking the frozen mixed vegetables according to package directions.
- Add ground beef, canned tomatoes, diced potato, and diced onion immediately to the vegetables.
- Cook until the potatoes are tender and the onion is soft.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Add water to reach the desired thickness, stir well, and simmer briefly before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier soup, consider adding cooked lentils or beans, which can enhance the protein content and texture. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute ground beef with lentils or textured vegetable protein. Feel free to add herbs like thyme or bay leaf for added flavor. Adjust the water based on your desired thickness; for a thicker consistency, use less water. This soup is a great base for experimenting with flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this comforting soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Baked Deer Steaks for a hearty dinner. You can also top it with shredded cheese or fresh herbs just before serving to elevate the flavors. Consider a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to restore the soup's consistency. It can also be reheated in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cold Weather Soup contains roughly 598 calories, with 10g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (51% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value), and potassium (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 638mg per serving (28% 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 vegetables instead of frozen?
Yes, you can absolutely use fresh vegetables! Just make sure to chop them into small pieces and sauté them until tender before adding the ground beef and other ingredients. Fresh vegetables may require a slightly longer cooking time, so adjust accordingly.
What can I do if I want to make this soup spicier?
To add some heat, consider including diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking. You can also serve the soup with hot sauce on the side for those who prefer to adjust the spice level to their liking.
Is this soup suitable for freezing?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm on the stove or microwave until heated through.
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).