Hearty Soup Stock
A hearty, comforting soup stock packed with vegetables, tomato sauce, and optional meat, perfect for warming up and satisfying the whole family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put water in a large kettle or Dutch oven.
- Add Hearty Soup Mix and salt.
- Bring to a boil.
- Cover and simmer for 1 to 1 1/2 hours.
- Add carrots, celery, cabbage, tomato sauce, and vegetable juice cocktail.
- Add cooked ground beef or other meat, if desired.
- Simmer for 20 more minutes until vegetables are cooked.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or bay leaves during simmering. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute ground beef with lentils or beans. You can also replace the vegetable juice cocktail with homemade vegetable broth for a fresher taste. To thicken the soup, mash a portion of the beans or vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Hearty Soup Stock with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a satisfying meal. It pairs beautifully with Chipped Beef Gravy for a comforting, homestyle dinner. For added texture, top each bowl with croutons or a sprinkle of grated cheese. Enjoy it as a cozy lunch or dinner option.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to maintain the desired consistency and heat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hearty Soup Stock contains roughly 556 calories, with 30g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (289% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (92% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (67% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2072mg per serving (90% 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 other meats in this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover roasted chicken or turkey can be great substitutes for ground beef. You can also use diced ham or sausage for a different flavor profile. Just ensure any meat used is pre-cooked before adding to the soup.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when adding the vegetables. You can also serve with a side of hot sauce or pickled jalapeños for those who enjoy a spicy kick.
Is this soup suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this Hearty Soup Stock is perfect for meal prep! It stores well and flavors actually improve after a day in the fridge. Divide into individual portions for easy lunches throughout the week, or freeze larger servings for later.
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).