𝐕𝐄𝐆𝐄𝐓𝐀𝐁𝐋𝐄 𝐁𝐄𝐄𝐅 𝐒𝐎𝐔𝐏

### Instructions for Making Vegetable Beef Soup

#### Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the **olive oil** over medium-high heat. Add the **beef stew meat** (or ground beef) and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides. If you’re using ground beef, break it up into small pieces as it cooks. Once the beef is browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside.

#### Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
In the same pot, add a little more oil if necessary. Add the **diced onion** and cook until softened and translucent, about **4-5 minutes**. Add the **minced garlic** and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

#### Step 3: Add the Liquids and Vegetables
Return the browned beef to the pot and stir in the **beef broth**, **water**, **diced tomatoes** (with their juice), **carrots**, and **potatoes**. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a boil.

#### Step 4: Season the Soup
Add the **dried thyme**, **dried oregano**, **bay leaf**, and a pinch of **salt and pepper**. If you’re using **Worcestershire sauce**, add it now for extra savory flavor. Stir everything together, ensuring the seasonings are well distributed.

#### Step 5: Simmer the Soup
Once the soup reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for about **40-45 minutes**, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.

#### Step 6: Add the Final Vegetables
After the soup has simmered, add the **peas** and **green beans** to the pot. Stir and cook for an additional **10-15 minutes** until the beans are tender and everything is heated through.

#### Step 7: Taste and Adjust
Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasonings if needed. Add more salt, pepper, or herbs as desired.

#### Step 8: Serve and Garnish
Serve the soup hot, garnished with **fresh parsley** for a pop of color and freshness. Pair it with some crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal.

### Tips for the Perfect Vegetable Beef Soup

1. **Beef Options**: For a leaner version, you can use **ground turkey** or **chicken breast** instead of beef. If you prefer a richer flavor, opt for **bone-in beef short ribs** or **beef chuck roast** for extra depth.

2. **Vegetable Varieties**: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables. Adding **corn**, **zucchini**, **celery**, or **parsnips** can change the flavor profile and make the soup even more colorful.

3. **Add More Flavor**: If you like your soup to have a more intense flavor, consider adding **tomato paste** for extra richness, or a small splash of **red wine** while cooking the onions for a deep, savory base.

4. **Meal Prep**: This soup makes great leftovers and can be stored in the fridge for up to **3-4 days**. It also freezes well—just let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container for up to **3 months**.

5. **Thickening the Soup**: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash a portion of the potatoes with a fork or potato masher before adding the peas and green beans. This will create a creamy texture without needing to add cream.

### Why Vegetable Beef Soup is the Ultimate Comfort Food

**Vegetable Beef Soup** is the perfect combination of warmth, flavor, and nutrition. The tender beef, combined with hearty vegetables and flavorful broth, makes for a comforting meal that’s perfect for chilly days. Whether you’re looking to feed a crowd or enjoy a comforting bowl at the end of a busy day, this soup delivers. It’s easy to make, customizable, and full of the flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.

So, next time you need a hearty, nutritious, and satisfying meal, whip up a pot of **Vegetable Beef Soup**. It’s a timeless classic that will fill your kitchen with delicious aromas and leave you feeling cozy and content.