Homemade Beef Soup
A hearty homemade beef soup with vegetables, rice, and herbs, perfect for comforting meals and adaptable with optional cream addition for richness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine stew meat, chopped carrots, celery, onion, garlic salt, pepper, onion salt, lemon pepper, minced garlic, tomato juice, water, and bay leaves in a large pot.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour or more, until the meat is tender and flavors meld.
- Add rice, cut beet tops, chopped onions, dill, and additional seasonings as desired during cooking.
- Once cooked, optionally stir in cream for added richness.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the stew meat before adding the vegetables. You can substitute the beef with chicken or turkey for a lighter version. If you prefer a thicker soup, add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with cold water during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Adjust the seasonings to your taste, and don't hesitate to throw in your favorite herbs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the homemade beef soup hot in deep bowls, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a unique twist, consider serving it alongside Roasted Broccoli With Sesame Dressing for a balanced plate.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover beef soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in a bowl covered with a microwave-safe lid until heated through. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Homemade Beef Soup contains roughly 593 calories, with 12g protein, 95g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (40% of the Daily Value) and protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1490mg per serving (65% 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 frozen vegetables in this soup?
Yes, you can use frozen vegetables instead of fresh. Just add them during the last 20 minutes of cooking to ensure they maintain their texture. This can save prep time and still deliver great flavor.
How can I make this soup gluten-free?
To make the soup gluten-free, ensure that any seasonings or broth used are labeled gluten-free. Additionally, avoid adding any ingredients that may contain gluten, such as certain types of canned tomato juice or pre-packaged seasonings.
What can I add for extra flavor?
For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce. Fresh herbs like thyme or bay leaves can also enhance the taste. If you enjoy a bit of spice, a dash of hot sauce can add a nice kick.
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).