My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is a comforting dish that brings back memories of family gatherings. This hearty soup is perfect for cold days, serving as a delightful dinner option or a warm lunch. Its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients make it a favorite for both kids and adults. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be frozen for later enjoyment!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting and Hearty: This soup is packed with vegetables and tender beef, making it a filling meal that warms you up.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe is simple enough for anyone to follow, even novice cooks.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can customize the vegetable mix according to your preference or what you have on hand.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze portions for quick meals on busy days.
• Nutrient-Rich: Loaded with vegetables, this soup provides essential vitamins and minerals while being low in calories.

Tools and Preparation

To make My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These will help ensure the cooking process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Perfect for slowly cooking the pot roast, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully over several hours.
• Large pot: Essential for combining all the ingredients together without spilling, ensuring an even cook throughout.
• Sharp knife: A must-have for chopping vegetables quickly and safely.

Ingredients

My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup features fresh, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a delicious meal.

Meat

• 1 pot roast (about 2 pounds)

Vegetables

• 2 russet potatoes, chopped
• 1 bag frozen seasoning blend (or just chopped onions)
• 1 bag frozen peas
• 1 bag frozen green beans
• 1 bag frozen corn
• 4 large carrots, chopped

Broth & Soups

• 1 (32 oz) container beef broth
• 2 (10.75 oz) cans tomato soup
• 1 can filled with water

Seasoning

• Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Roast

1. Season the pot roast with salt and pepper.
2. Place it in your slow cooker along with half a can of beef broth.
3. Cook on LOW for about 10 hours until tender; shred using two forks.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In a very large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped carrots and the frozen seasoning blend.
3. Sauté until tender, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Add the shredded beef from the slow cooker into the large pot.
2. Incorporate the chopped potatoes, remaining frozen veggies (peas, green beans, corn) into the pot.
3. Pour in the rest of the beef broth, both cans of tomato soup, and one can filled with water.
4. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Cook the Soup

1. Bring everything to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about an hour.
3. Stir occasionally and add more water if desired during cooking.

Enjoy My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup as a hearty meal that not only nourishes but also warms your soul!

How to Serve My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

Serving My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is a delight that can be enhanced with various accompaniments. Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a gathering with family and friends, consider these serving suggestions to elevate your soup experience.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Parsley or Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro on top for a fresh touch that adds color and flavor.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• French Baguette: Serve slices of warm French baguette for dipping, which complements the hearty nature of the soup perfectly.

Offer Grated Cheese

• Cheddar or Parmesan: Provide a side of grated cheese for guests to sprinkle on top, adding richness to each bowl.

Include a Side Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette can balance the warmth of the soup and add freshness to the meal.

Serve with Crackers

• Saltine or Whole Grain Crackers: Offer crunchy crackers on the side for those who enjoy a bit of texture alongside their soup.

Create a Sandwich Combo

• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic grilled cheese sandwich pairs wonderfully with vegetable beef soup, making it a comforting meal.

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How to Perfect My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

To ensure your soup turns out just right, keep these tips in mind. They will help you achieve that old-fashioned flavor and texture everyone loves.

• Use Quality Beef: Opt for a well-marbled pot roast for richer flavor and tenderness.

• Sauté Vegetables First: Sautéing your carrots and seasoning blend before adding them to the pot enhances their natural sweetness.

• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go—adding salt and pepper in small amounts allows you to control the final flavor better.

• Simmer Gently: Once boiling, reduce heat and let it simmer gently; this helps meld all the flavors beautifully.

• Cool Before Storing: If you’re saving leftovers, let the soup cool completely before refrigerating or freezing it to maintain its quality.

Best Side Dishes for My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

Complementing My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup with side dishes can create a more filling meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for scooping up that delicious broth while adding robust flavor.

2. Cornbread Muffins: Soft and slightly sweet cornbread muffins pair nicely with savory soups.

3. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw brings freshness and balance, cutting through the richness of the soup.

4. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and spices can make for an exciting side dish that complements your soup’s flavors.

5. Potato Wedges: Baked potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide a hearty addition that echoes the potatoes in your soup.

6. Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine lettuce combined with creamy dressing adds zest and crunch alongside your comforting bowl of soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup can be a delightful experience, but there are some common mistakes to steer clear of.

• Skipping seasoning: Not properly seasoning your soup can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust the seasoning throughout the cooking process.
• Overcooking vegetables: Adding vegetables too early can result in mushy textures. Add them at the right time to maintain their freshness.
• Ignoring liquid ratios: Using too much or too little broth can alter the soup’s consistency. Stick to recommended liquid amounts for the perfect balance.
• Using low-quality beef: Cheap cuts of meat may not shred well or add depth of flavor. Choose a good quality pot roast for the best results.
• Not letting it simmer long enough: Short cooking times can prevent flavors from developing fully. Allow enough simmering time for a rich taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store soup in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

• Cool the soup completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, and heat for about 30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup.

Can I customize the vegetables?

Yes! Feel free to add or swap out any vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

How do I thicken the soup?

If you prefer a thicker texture, consider adding diced potatoes or using a cornstarch slurry.

Is this soup healthy?

Absolutely! This recipe is packed with nutritious vegetables and lean beef, making it a healthy choice for dinner.

How long does it take to cook this soup?

The total time includes around 10 hours of slow cooking and an additional hour of simmering, but most of that is hands-off time!

Final Thoughts

My Mom’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is not just delicious; it’s also versatile and comforting. You can easily customize it with different vegetables or spices to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a warm bowl full of nostalgia!