Diane'S Soup
Diane's Soup is a hearty, comforting beef and vegetable soup with rich flavors from herbs and tender rice, perfect for family dinners or cold days.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef and chopped onion in a small amount of butter in a large kettle.
- Add potatoes, cabbage, tomato juice, water, celery, beef broth, sweet basil, thyme, carrots, and rice to the kettle.
- Bring the mixture to a boiling temperature, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 1/2 hours.
- Optionally, add green beans during the simmering process.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier version, substitute diced sweet potatoes for regular potatoes. You can also use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a vegetarian option. Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor, so consider using fresh thyme and basil if available. Browning the ground beef adds depth; don't rush this step. Feel free to experiment by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Diane's Soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top can add a nice touch, enhancing the flavors. This soup pairs beautifully with American recipes that feature beef, making it a great option for family dinners or gatherings.
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 loosen the soup. You can also microwave it in a covered bowl, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Diane'S Soup contains roughly 24 calories, with 1g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
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 freeze Diane's Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm on the stove or in the microwave.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
You can use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative to ground beef. For a vegetarian option, try using lentils or plant-based meat substitutes, which will still provide protein and texture to the soup.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add some heat, consider including diced jalapeños or a dash of crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing the onions. You can also serve the soup with hot sauce on the side for those who like to customize their spice level.
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).