Best Ever Easy Vegetable Beef Soup

Step 1: Brown the Beef

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat in a single layer.
2. Season with a little salt and pepper. Brown the meat on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Broth

1. Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes (with juices), scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot for added flavor.
2. Return the browned beef to the pot.

Step 4: Add Vegetables and Seasonings

1. Add the diced potato, carrots, celery, green beans, thyme, basil, and bay leaf.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and stir everything together.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup

1. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer.
2. Cover and let cook for 45-60 minutes, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through. Add more broth if you prefer a thinner consistency.

Step 6: Add Peas and Corn

1. During the last 10 minutes of cooking, add the corn and peas.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 7: Serve

1. Remove the bay leaf, and ladle the soup into bowls.
2. Serve with crusty bread or a side of crackers for a deliciously comforting meal!

Tips and Variations:

• Use Ground Beef: For an even quicker option, replace stew meat with ground beef. Brown it in the pot, drain any excess fat, and continue with the recipe.
• Add a Little Heat: If you like spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Make It Heartier: Toss in a handful of pasta or barley during the last 20 minutes of cooking for extra texture.
• Storing Leftovers: This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and actually tastes better as the flavors meld together. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.

This easy vegetable beef soup is flavorful, filling, and so satisfying—perfect for any time you need a quick and comforting meal!