Jean'S Vegetable Soup
Hearty vegetable soup with ground beef, tomatoes, and mixed vegetables, perfect for comforting family meals and versatile for various tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put ground beef in a 6-quart pan and start cooking over medium heat.
- Add water until the pan is half full and bring to a simmer.
- Add chopped onion, canned tomatoes, frozen mixed vegetables, and salt to taste.
- Reduce heat and let the soup simmer for 6 hours, adding more water if the pan is not full.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the ground beef before adding other ingredients. You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or a plant-based alternative for a lighter version. If you prefer a thicker soup, add a tablespoon of tomato paste. For added depth, toss in herbs like thyme or basil. Adjust salt based on your taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Jean's Vegetable Soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Dandelion Salad for a refreshing contrast. You can also top each bowl with grated cheese or fresh herbs for extra flavor. This soup is perfect for meal prep, making it an ideal choice for a hearty lunch or dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently simmer on the stove over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if needed. The soup also freezes well; just let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jean'S Vegetable Soup contains roughly 873 calories, with 22g protein, 103g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (75% of the Daily Value), protein (45% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1796mg per serving (78% 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 frozen?
Yes, fresh vegetables can be used in place of frozen ones. Just be sure to chop them into similar sizes for even cooking. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as fresh vegetables may cook faster. Consider using seasonal vegetables for added flavor and nutrition.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce when you add the canned tomatoes. You could also include red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a kick. Adjust the spice level gradually to suit your preference.
Is this soup suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, Jean's Vegetable Soup is naturally gluten-free as long as the canned tomatoes and any additional seasonings you use are gluten-free. Always check labels to ensure there are no hidden gluten ingredients, especially in processed foods.
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).