🍲 Southern-Style Beef & Veggie Soup
Ingredients:
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1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
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2 tbsp vegetable oil
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1 large onion, chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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3 carrots, peeled and sliced
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3 celery stalks, sliced
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2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
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1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
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6 cups beef broth
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1 cup green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces (fresh or frozen)
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1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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1 tsp dried thyme
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1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
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1 bay leaf
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Brown the beef:
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Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
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Add beef and brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
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Remove beef and set aside.
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Sauté aromatics:
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In the same pot, add onion and garlic.
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Cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
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Add veggies and seasonings:
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Add carrots, celery, and potatoes.
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Stir in smoked paprika, thyme, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using.
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Return beef to the pot.
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Add liquids and simmer:
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Pour in beef broth and diced tomatoes with their juice.
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Add bay leaf.
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Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer covered for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until beef is tender.
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Add green beans and corn:
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Stir in green beans and corn.
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Simmer uncovered for another 10-15 minutes until veggies are tender but still vibrant.
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Finish and serve:
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Remove bay leaf.
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Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
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Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions.
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Serve hot with crusty bread or cornbread.
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Tips:
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For extra Southern flair, add a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of Cajun seasoning.
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Swap beef stew meat with leftover roast beef.
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Use smoked sausage slices for a smokier flavor twist.
Want a slow cooker version or a vegetarian Southern-style soup?