If you’re craving a hearty, comforting dish that’s packed with vibrant vegetables and tender chunks of beef, this Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe is an absolute must-try. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between rich flavors and nourishing ingredients, creating a stew that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s one of those dishes that fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma while being surprisingly straightforward to make, turning simple pantry staples into a soul-satisfying meal perfect for any season.

Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key to creating depth and texture in this Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe. Each element plays an essential role, from the robust flavor of the stewing beef to the earthy mushrooms and the subtle sweetness of carrots and peas. Together, they create a vibrant, layered taste that is both satisfying and nourishing.

Olive oil (1.5 tbsp, separated): Used for browning the beef and sautéing vegetables, it adds a smooth richness without overpowering flavors.
Stewing beef (500g/1 lb, cut into 1.75cm cubes): Choosing tender cubes ensures that the meat becomes juicy and soft after slow cooking.
Salt and pepper (1/2 tsp): Perfectly seasons the beef and soup to enhance all flavors.
Onion (1, chopped): Adds a savory sweetness and foundational flavor base for the soup.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced / 1 tbsp): Brings a warm, aromatic punch that wakes up the entire dish.
Celery (2 stalks, sliced): Provides a subtle crunch and fresh herbal note.
Carrots (3, sliced into 0.5 cm pieces): Their natural sweetness balances the soup’s savory aspects.
Flour (4 tbsp): Helps thicken the broth, turning the soup into a satisfying stew.
Beef broth/stock (2 1/2 cups / 625ml, low sodium): The hearty liquid base that infuses every spoonful with beefy goodness.
Dry red wine, Guinness beer, or stout (1 1/2 cups / 375ml): Adds complexity and a subtle depth of flavor to the broth.
Water (1.5 cups / 375ml): Balances the liquid components for the perfect consistency.
Tomato paste (2 tbsp): Introduces a gentle acidity and richness to brighten the soup.
Bay leaves (2): Infuse the broth with earthy, herbal hints during cooking.
Dried thyme (1 tsp): Delivers a classic aromatic note that pairs perfectly with beef and vegetables.
Frozen peas (1 cup): Add a burst of color and a fresh pop of sweetness.
Potatoes (2, cut into 1.5 cm cubes): Give body and creaminess to each spoonful, making the soup truly filling.
Butter or oil (1 tbsp): Used to sauté the mushrooms until golden and flavorful.
Small mushrooms (200g / 6oz, quartered or halved): Earthy and tender, they elevate the soup’s texture and taste wonderfully.

How to Make Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over high heat. Brown the stewing beef cubes in batches to ensure they develop a nicely caramelized crust without steaming, which adds a rich meaty flavor to the soup. Once browned, set the beef aside. Browning is a game-changer here because it deepens the overall taste of your vegetable beef soup recipe.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables

In the same pot, add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté them until fragrant and translucent, releasing their natural sweetness. Toss in the sliced celery and carrots next, stirring to combine. Cooking these vegetables gently softens them while allowing their fresh flavors to bloom, laying the perfect foundation for your soup.

Step 3: Build the Base

Sprinkle in the flour and stir well to coat the vegetables. This step slightly thickens the broth and adds a velvety texture to the finished soup. Then pour in the beef broth, red wine (or your choice of Guinness or stout), and water. Add the tomato paste, bay leaves, dried thyme, and the browned beef back into the pot. Give everything a good stir to bring those flavors together.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Cover the pot and let the soup simmer gently for about 1 hour and 15 minutes. This slow cooking tenderizes the beef beautifully while allowing all the flavors to meld into a harmonious, hearty broth. Patience here results in a deeply satisfying vegetable beef soup recipe that will make your taste buds sing.

Step 5: Add Peas, Potatoes, and Mushrooms

After the initial simmer, toss in the frozen peas, cubed potatoes, and quartered mushrooms. In a separate small pan, melt the butter or heat oil and sauté the mushrooms until browned, seasoning them with a pinch of salt and pepper to bring out their natural earthiness. Add the mushrooms to the soup and continue simmering for an additional 20 minutes to cook the potatoes through and let everything meld together.

Step 6: Final Seasoning

Remove the bay leaves, taste your soup, and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. This final step ensures every spoonful is perfectly balanced and flavorful, making this vegetable beef soup recipe a comforting classic.

How to Serve Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few delicate thyme leaves can add a vibrant splash of color and a hint of fresh herbal brightness. If you’re feeling indulgent, a dollop of sour cream or a swirl of plain yogurt can make the soup even creamier and more luxurious.

Side Dishes

Serve your vegetable beef soup recipe with crusty artisan bread or warm dinner rolls that are perfect for dipping into the rich broth. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy dinner party, ladle your soup into rustic bowls and top with crispy garlic croutons or grated sharp cheddar cheese for an inviting touch. You can also serve it in hollowed-out bread bowls for an impressive presentation that’s sure to wow guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This vegetable beef soup recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain the fresh flavors and prevent the broth from absorbing any fridge odors.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, this soup freezes really well. Let it cool completely before transferring it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip bags. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Gently reheat your soup on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the soup seems too thick after refrigeration or freezing, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up before serving.

FAQs

Can I use different types of beef for this soup?

Absolutely! While stewing beef is ideal because it becomes tender and flavorful with slow cooking, you can use chuck roast or brisket cut into cubes. Just be sure to adjust cooking time accordingly to get the perfect tenderness.

Is it necessary to use wine or beer in the recipe?

Not at all. The wine or beer adds depth and complexity, but you can substitute it with extra beef broth or even water with a splash of vinegar or soy sauce for a different twist. The soup will still be delicious and hearty.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version, omit the beef and beef broth. Use vegetable broth instead and add protein-rich beans like chickpeas or lentils to keep it filling. Add hearty vegetables like more mushrooms and root veggies to create a satisfying alternative.

What is the best way to thicken the soup if it’s too thin?

If your soup needs thickening, you can stir in an additional tablespoon of flour mixed with cold water, or mash some of the potatoes directly in the soup. Simmer for a few minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.

Can I prepare any part of this soup in advance?

Yes! You can brown the beef and sauté the vegetables a day ahead, storing them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, just combine everything and follow the remaining steps. This makes your cooking day much easier and quicker.

Final Thoughts

This Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe is the kind of meal that brings people together and feels like a warm embrace after a long day. Whether you’re sharing it with family or savoring it yourself, it’s comforting, delicious, and full of wholesome goodness. Give it a try—it might just become your new favorite go-to soup, guaranteed to brighten any mealtime.