Classic Beef Vegetable Soup

Ingredients:

4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes

3 large carrots, peeled and sliced

1 large onion, finely chopped

4 cups frozen green beans

4 cups frozen corn

4 cups tomato juice

2 cups water

1/2 pound ground beef

2 bay leaves

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

In a saucepan mix together potatoes, carrots, onion, salt and pepper.

Pour, in 4 cups of water. Bring it to a gentle boil.

Cover the pan. Let the mixture simmer for 25 minutes until the vegetables become tender.

Now add beans, corn, tomato juice, ground beef, bay leaves and garlic powder.

Let everything simmer for another 25 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Remember to remove the bay leaves before serving.

Indulge, in this comforting Classic Beef Vegetable Soup! Enjoy!

Notes:

To confidently prepare and savor a Classic Beef Vegetable Soup that is gluten free follow these tips:

Choose Certified Gluten Free Ingredients: When purchasing ingredients, like tomato juice, garlic powder and ground beef make sure they are clearly labeled as “gluten free” to avoid any contamination risks.

Verify Spice Blends: If you’re using pre made spice blends or seasoning mixes carefully check the labels to ensure they do not contain any gluten based thickeners or additives.

Opt for Gluten Free Stock: If you prefer using stock instead of water in your soup recipe go for free vegetable stock or broth to maintain its gluten free nature.

Mind Frozen Vegetables and Canned Goods: While plain frozen vegetables are usually gluten free some processed varieties may include additives that contain gluten.

Read the labels attentively to confirm their status.

Similarly when using goods like corn ensure they are free, from sauces or thickeners that contain gluten.

Ingredient Variations: You can customize the soup by using fresh vegetables instead of frozen ones. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Potato Peeling: While peeling the potatoes is recommended for a smoother texture, you can leave the skins on if you prefer. Ensure they are washed thoroughly before cubing.

Meat Substitution: Ground turkey can be used instead of ground beef for a leaner option. Adjust the cooking time as needed.

Storage: Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Bay Leaves: Bay leaves add depth of flavor to the soup but can be omitted if unavailable.

Potato Options: Russet potatoes can be substituted with Yukon Gold or red potatoes, each imparting a slightly different texture to the soup.

Vegetarian Option: Omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make the soup vegetarian. Additional vegetables or legumes can be added for protein.

Freezing: The soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Liquid Ratio: Using both water and tomato juice helps balance the flavors and consistency of the soup. Adjust the ratio to suit your taste.

Spice Adjustment: You can increase the spiciness of the soup by adding more garlic powder or additional spices such as paprika or cayenne pepper.

Additional Vegetables: Customize the soup by adding vegetables like peas, spinach, or bell peppers. Be mindful of cooking times to ensure all vegetables are tender.

Meal Prep: The soup is suitable for meal prep. Make a large batch and portion it into individual containers for easy reheating throughout the week. Properly store in the refrigerator.

Nutrition Information:

Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately)

Amount Per Serving:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen ones?

Yes, you can use fresh vegetables if preferred.

Simply adjust the cooking time accordingly, as fresh vegetables may cook faster than frozen ones.

Is it necessary to peel the potatoes for this soup?

While peeling the potatoes is recommended for a smoother texture, you can leave the skins on if you prefer.

Just make sure to wash them thoroughly before cubing.

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef if you prefer a leaner option.

Adjust the cooking time as needed since ground turkey may cook faster than beef.

How long can I store leftovers of this soup?

Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Are bay leaves necessary for the flavor of the soup?

Bay leaves add depth of flavor to the soup, but they can be omitted if you don’t have them on hand.

However, their subtle aroma enhances the overall taste of the dish.

Is there a substitute for russet potatoes?

Yes, you can substitute russet potatoes with other varieties such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes.

Each type may impart a slightly different texture to the soup.

How can I make this soup vegetarian?

To make this soup vegetarian, simply omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

You can also add additional vegetables or legumes for protein.

Can I freeze this soup for later?

Yes, this soup freezes well.

Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Do I need to use both water and tomato juice?

Using both water and tomato juice helps balance the flavors and consistency of the soup.

However, you can adjust the ratio to suit your preference.

Are bay leaves essential to the recipe?

Bay leaves add a subtle depth of flavor to the soup, but if you don’t have them on hand, you can omit them.

The soup will still be delicious without them.

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef.

Adjust the cooking time as needed since ground turkey cooks faster than beef.

How can I make this soup spicier?

You can increase the amount of garlic powder or add additional spices such as paprika or cayenne pepper for extra heat.

Adjust according to your taste preferences.

Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize the soup by adding vegetables such as peas, spinach, or bell peppers.

Just be mindful of cooking times to ensure all vegetables are tender.

Is this soup suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this soup is great for meal prep.

You can make a large batch and portion it into individual containers for easy reheating throughout the week.

Just be sure to store it properly in the refrigerator.