Beef soup, particularly the old-fashioned variety, has a special way of making us feel at home, no matter where we are. The depth of flavor that comes from simmering beef with vegetables and seasonings creates a hearty, comforting bowl of goodness that evokes memories of cozy kitchens, family gatherings, and the kind of slow-cooked care that only a classic recipe can offer. There’s something about the simplicity of a well-made beef soup-rich, savory, and full of warmth-that never goes out of style.
In this post, we’re diving deep into an Old Fashioned Beef Soup Recipe-the type of dish that’s perfect for any time of the year but especially fitting for colder months. We’ll take a look at the ingredients you need, the step-by-step instructions, some expert tips to make your soup even better, and even ways you can put your own spin on the recipe. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this soup is easy to make, and the results are always worth the effort.
Old Fashioned Beef Soup Recipe
This Old Fashioned Beef Soup is all about time-tested flavors and wholesome ingredients. It’s a no-frills recipe that makes the most of inexpensive cuts of beef, fresh vegetables, and a few simple seasonings. When you let it simmer for a couple of hours, the beef becomes incredibly tender and the flavors meld together beautifully. It’s the kind of recipe that improves with age, meaning leftovers are just as delicious (if not better) the next day!
Here’s what you’ll need and how to make it.
Ingredients Needed
Before diving into the cooking, it’s important to gather all the ingredients. Here’s a rundown of what you’ll need for this classic beef soup:
- Beef Stew Meat (2 pounds): The star of the soup. Look for a tough cut like chuck or brisket, which will break down and become tender when slow-cooked. Cubed beef works best.
- Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): For browning the beef and adding flavor to the base.
- Onions (1 large): A whole onion adds sweetness and depth to the soup. Chop it finely.
- Garlic (3 cloves): Fresh garlic provides an aromatic punch.
- Carrots (2 medium): Cut into slices, carrots offer both flavor and color to the soup.
- Celery (2 stalks): Adds an earthy flavor and crunch when cooked.
- Potatoes (3 medium): Choose Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and diced. They help thicken the broth as they cook.
- Tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 ounces): Canned diced tomatoes add acidity and depth.
- Beef Broth (4 cups): The base liquid that carries the flavors throughout the soup. You can also use stock if you prefer a richer taste.
- Bay Leaves (2): These bring a subtle aromatic flavor.
- Thyme (1 teaspoon, dried or 3 sprigs fresh): A quintessential herb for beef soup.
- Salt & Pepper (to taste): For seasoning.
- Worcestershire Sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds umami and a touch of tanginess to balance the richness of the beef.
Cooking Instructions
Now that you have everything ready, let’s get into the cooking. Follow these easy steps to make your soup:
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Brown The Beef
- Heat the olive oil over medium-high heat in a large Dutch oven or soup pot.
- Add the cubed beef in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Brown the beef on all sides (this adds so much flavor!).
- Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
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Sauté The Aromatics
- In the same pot, add the chopped onions and garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
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Add The Vegetables
- Add the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, and celery. Stir everything together and cook for another 5 minutes.
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Deglaze The Pot
- Pour in a little bit of beef broth to loosen any brown bits that have stuck to the bottom of the pot. This adds flavor to your soup base.
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Simmer The Soup
- Return the browned beef to the pot along with the rest of the beef broth, canned tomatoes, bay leaves, and thyme. Stir everything to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is incredibly tender and the vegetables are soft.
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Season To Taste
- Once the soup is done cooking, taste it and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce as needed. Remove the bay leaves before serving.
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Serve And Enjoy
- Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. You can garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if desired. A slice of crusty bread on the side doesn’t hurt either!
Ingredient Insights
- Beef Stew Meat: Choosing the right cut of beef is essential for this soup. Chuck roast or brisket work best because they have a lot of connective tissue that breaks down during the long cooking process, making the beef incredibly tender and flavorful.
- Potatoes: Potatoes not only bulk up the soup but also absorb and intensify the flavors. If you want a slightly thicker soup, allow the potatoes to break down a bit while cooking.
- Worcestershire Sauce: This secret ingredient adds complexity and depth to the broth, balancing out the rich flavor of the beef and adding an extra savory note.
- Herbs: Fresh thyme is a great choice, but if you don’t have it on hand, dried thyme is just as effective. Bay leaves bring a gentle earthy flavor that enhances the overall profile of the soup without overpowering it.
Expert Tips
- Browning the Beef: Don’t skip the browning process! Searing the beef creates a deep, caramelized flavor that makes the soup richer and more savory. Make sure the beef has a nice, golden-brown crust before moving on to the next steps.
- Low and Slow Cooking: This soup benefits from a slow, long simmer. The longer you let it cook, the more the flavors meld together. If possible, let it simmer for a couple of hours, but even 1.5 hours will yield a delicious result.
- Storage: This soup actually improves the next day, so consider making a big batch and storing the leftovers in the fridge for easy meals throughout the week. It can be stored for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months!
- Thickening Tip: If you prefer a thicker soup, try mashing a few of the potatoes directly in the pot once they’re soft. This will give the soup a nice creamy texture without adding any cream or flour.
Recipe Variations
While this recipe is already delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to put your own twist on it:
- Add Beans: For more protein and fiber, consider adding some kidney beans or cannellini beans to the mix.
- Use Different Vegetables: Feel free to add other root vegetables like parsnips, rutabaga, or turnips. You can even throw in some corn or green beans if you prefer.
- Make it Spicy: If you like a bit of heat, throw in a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños for a kick.
- Herb Variations: Swap thyme for oregano or rosemary for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Beef Substitution: If you’re not into beef, you can easily substitute with lamb or even chicken thighs for a different take on this classic soup.
Final Words
Old-fashioned beef soup is all about comfort. It’s simple, hearty, and nourishing-exactly the kind of dish that brings people together. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or sharing it with friends, the rich flavor and tender beef will make anyone feel like they’ve just stepped into a cozy kitchen. Don’t rush the process, take your time, and savor the journey as the ingredients come together in a bubbling pot of deliciousness.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Typically Used In An Old Fashioned Beef Soup Recipe?
An old fashioned beef soup recipe generally includes beef stew meat (or chuck), onions, carrots, potatoes, celery, garlic, beef broth, bay leaves, thyme, salt, pepper, and sometimes tomatoes or tomato paste for added richness.
Can I Use Any Type Of Beef For An Old Fashioned Beef Soup?
For the best results, it’s recommended to use tougher cuts of beef such as chuck roast or beef stew meat. These cuts become tender when slow-cooked in the broth. Avoid using lean cuts like sirloin, as they may not provide the same rich flavor.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Old Fashioned Beef Soup?
An old fashioned beef soup typically requires 1.5 to 2 hours of simmering on the stovetop to ensure the beef is tender and the flavors are well-blended. If using a slow cooker, it can take 6-8 hours on low heat.
Can I Make Old Fashioned Beef Soup In A Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can make old fashioned beef soup in a slow cooker. Brown the beef first to enhance the flavor, then add the vegetables, broth, and seasonings. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender.
Is It Necessary To Brown The Beef Before Adding It To The Soup?
Browning the beef before adding it to the soup is not strictly necessary, but it greatly enhances the flavor. This process caramelizes the meat and creates a richer, more complex taste in the soup.
Can I Add Other Vegetables To An Old Fashioned Beef Soup?
Yes, you can add other vegetables like peas, parsnips, corn, or green beans to customize the soup to your liking. Just be mindful of cooking times, as some vegetables may soften or overcook faster than others.
Should I Use Fresh Or Dried Herbs For An Old Fashioned Beef Soup?
Fresh herbs provide a more vibrant and aromatic flavor, but dried herbs can work just as well. If using dried herbs, remember to reduce the quantity by about one-third, as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.
Can I Freeze Leftover Old Fashioned Beef Soup?
Yes, you can freeze old fashioned beef soup for up to 3 months. To freeze, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When reheating, add a bit of water or broth to adjust the consistency, as the soup may thicken during freezing.
What Can I Serve With Old Fashioned Beef Soup?
Old fashioned beef soup pairs well with crusty bread, rolls, or crackers. You can also serve it with a side salad or a light vegetable dish to balance the meal.
How Can I Make An Old Fashioned Beef Soup Recipe Spicier?
To add spice to your old fashioned beef soup, you can incorporate ingredients like red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce. Start with small amounts and adjust to your heat preference.