Groente (Oven) Soup
A hearty and comforting oven-baked vegetable and beef soup with tomatoes, barley, and aromatic herbs, perfect for warming up and satisfying the whole family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a large kettle or roaster.
- Cook in a 325°F (160°C) oven for 4 hours.
- Stir about every hour during cooking.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing the onion and celery before adding them to the kettle. If you don't have barley, rice is a great substitute, or you could use quinoa for a gluten-free option. Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to enhance the soup's nutrition and taste. Season well with salt and pepper to your liking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty Groente Soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Bean 'N Bacon Burgers for a comforting dinner. Consider garnishing with additional parsley before serving for a fresh touch. This soup is also excellent for meal prep, as the flavors deepen after a day in the fridge.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Groente (Oven) Soup contains roughly 1272 calories, with 67g protein, 258g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (455% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (379% of the Daily Value), and iron (222% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2206mg per serving (96% 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 a slow cooker for this recipe?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Combine all ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, similar to the oven method.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Also, consider using Portabella Mushrooms to add a meaty texture without meat.
What can I do if the soup is too thick?
If your soup turns out too thick, simply add more water or broth until you reach your desired consistency. Stir well and let it simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to blend. Adjust the seasoning afterward, as additional liquid may dilute the flavors.
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).