Microwave Vegetable-Beef Soup
A hearty microwave vegetable-beef soup with tender beef, savory vegetables, and barley, perfect for comforting meals and quick preparation in the microwave.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 5-quart casserole, combine the soup bone, onion, celery, carrot, barley, salt (if using), celery salt, parsley flakes, pepper, marjoram, tomato paste, and water.
- Stir to mix all ingredients well and cover the casserole.
- Set the microwave to Defrost at High (10) for 60 minutes.
- Then cook at Medium (5) for 99 minutes.
- During cooking, turn the casserole 1/4 turn twice to ensure even cooking.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider using a mix of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary in place of dried marjoram. If you prefer a heartier texture, you can substitute quinoa for barley. For a more vibrant broth, add diced tomatoes or bell peppers. Always taste and adjust seasonings before finishing. This soup can also be customized with leftover vegetables from other meals.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the vegetable-beef soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It pairs wonderfully with Cucumber-Onion Salad, adding a refreshing crunch. Top each bowl with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. For a heartier option, consider serving alongside Jojo'S Potatoes for a comforting dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Vegetable-Beef Soup contains roughly 544 calories, with 22g protein, 122g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (230% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (221% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2016mg per serving (88% 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 different type of meat instead of a soup bone?
Yes, you can substitute the soup bone with beef chuck or stew meat. Just increase the cooking time slightly to ensure the meat is tender. For a lighter version, consider using chicken or turkey bones, which will also add great flavor.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the soup bone and replace the beef with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or a can of beans for protein. Use vegetable broth instead of water and season to taste for a delicious vegetarian soup.
How can I thicken the soup if it's too watery?
If you find the soup too thin, you can thicken it by mixing 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with cold water and stirring it into the soup while it simmers. Alternatively, blend a portion of the soup and return it to the pot for a creamier texture.
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).