Track Soup
A hearty, flavorful soup featuring ground beef, tomatoes, potatoes, carrots, and green beans, perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. Rich in vegetables and comforting rice.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown hamburger in a small amount of cooking oil in a frying pan.
- Place the browned hamburger and all remaining ingredients in a 6-quart kettle.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 1/2 hours, until vegetables are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or bay leaves during cooking. If you want to make it heartier, you can substitute the raw rice with cooked quinoa or orzo. You can also add more vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition. Don't forget to adjust the seasoning to taste as canned tomatoes vary in saltiness.
Serving Suggestions
Track Soup is delicious on its own but can be served with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. Consider pairing it with a Hot Spinach Salad(Serve Immediately) for a fresh contrast. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added flavor and presentation. This soup is also great for meal prep, perfect for busy weeknights.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Track Soup contains roughly 749 calories, with 17g protein, 123g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (361% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (191% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (101% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1556mg per serving (68% 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 make this soup in advance?
Yes, Track Soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just be aware that the rice may absorb some of the broth, so you might need to add a little water when reheating.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the hamburger with a plant-based ground meat substitute or skip it altogether for a vegetable version. Use vegetable broth instead of water to enhance the flavor, and feel free to load it up with your favorite vegetables.
What can I add to make it spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce while the soup simmers. Adjust the amount according to your spice tolerance. This can elevate the flavors and make your Track Soup a bit more exciting!
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).