Easy Vegetable Soup
A hearty and flavorful vegetable soup featuring tender stewed beef, mixed vegetables, and a savory tomato and V-8 juice broth. Perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings, this dish combines rich meat flavors with bright vegetable notes for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the stewed beef. Cook on high heat until it comes to a boil.
- Lower the heat to medium and cook the beef for approximately 30 minutes.
- Add the canned mixed vegetables, stewed tomatoes, and V-8 juice to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium.
- Cook for approximately 30 minutes, then simmer on low heat until the beef is tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider browning the stewed beef before adding it to the pot. You can substitute fresh vegetables like carrots and green beans for the canned mixed vegetables for a fresher taste. If you're looking for a thicker soup, add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water. Season gradually to ensure the flavors balance well. This recipe is versatile like many American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty vegetable soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Meat Loaf And Potatoes for a comforting family dinner. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness. Serve with a dollop of sour cream or grated cheese if desired.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience. Freezing is an option; just ensure it's cooled completely before placing it in freezer-safe containers.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Vegetable Soup contains roughly 764 calories, with 18g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 69g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (115% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (47% of the Daily Value), and protein (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1327mg per serving (58% 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 canned?
Absolutely! Fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and potatoes can enhance the flavor and texture of the soup. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them to the pot along with the beef. You may need to adjust cooking times to ensure they become tender.
Is this soup suitable for freezing?
Yes, this vegetable soup freezes well. Make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce while cooking. You can also serve it with a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or a side of your favorite spicy condiment to customize the heat level to your taste.
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).