VEGETABLE BEEF SOUP

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### How to Make Vegetable Beef Soup

#### Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the **ground beef** (or stew beef) and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat from the pot and set the beef aside.

#### Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the **chopped onion** and **minced garlic**. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

#### Step 3: Add the Broth and Tomatoes
Pour in the **beef broth**, **water**, and **diced tomatoes** (including their juices). Stir to combine.

#### Step 4: Add the Vegetables and Seasonings
Add the **potatoes**, **carrots**, **green beans**, and **peas** to the pot. Stir everything together, then add the **tomato paste**, **thyme**, **basil**, and **bay leaves**. Season with **salt** and **pepper** to taste. Bring the soup to a boil over medium-high heat.

#### Step 5: Simmer
Once the soup is boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 45 minutes to an hour, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally and check for seasoning, adjusting as needed.

#### Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the bay leaves before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy the heartwarming goodness of vegetable beef soup. For added flavor, serve with a slice of crusty bread or crackers on the side.

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### Tips for the Best Vegetable Beef Soup

– **Use Stew Meat**: For a more traditional soup, you can substitute ground beef with cubed stew beef. Brown it the same way, but simmer it longer to ensure the meat becomes tender.
– **Make it Your Own**: Feel free to swap out or add any of your favorite vegetables. Corn, zucchini, and bell peppers are great additions.
– **For a Richer Broth**: If you want an even richer flavor, use low-sodium beef broth and add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of soy sauce to enhance the depth of the broth.
– **Make it Spicy**: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a bit of heat.
– **Prep Ahead**: This soup stores well, so make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week. You can even freeze the soup for up to 3 months for a quick meal later.

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### Why Vegetable Beef Soup is a Family Favorite

**Vegetable Beef Soup** is a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Its balance of tender beef, hearty vegetables, and savory broth makes it a versatile and satisfying meal for people of all ages. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be customized to suit everyone’s preferences. Whether you serve it as a main dish or alongside a fresh salad, this soup is guaranteed to please.

There’s no wonder this dish has been passed down through generations. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together, provides comfort, and leaves everyone satisfied. Try making it for your family tonight, and it just might become your new go-to soup for every season!