There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s hearty, flavorful, and brimming with wholesome vegetables. One soup that consistently delivers this in spades is the Ponderosa Steakhouse Vegetable Soup. If you’ve ever stepped into a Ponderosa Steakhouse, you know exactly what I’m talking about: a robust, savory, and filling vegetable soup that pairs perfectly with a fresh roll or a slice of buttered bread. But why leave the house when you can create this iconic dish in your own kitchen?
This recipe brings the taste of the Ponderosa Steakhouse to your dining table, capturing the essence of what makes their vegetable soup so popular: a medley of tender vegetables in a rich, flavorful broth. It’s simple yet packed with flavor, and it’s versatile enough to satisfy almost any palate. Whether you’re making it for a casual weeknight dinner or for a cozy family gathering, this soup will surely hit the spot.
Let’s dive right into how you can make this mouthwatering Ponderosa Steakhouse vegetable soup from scratch.
Ponderosa Steakhouse Vegetable Soup Recipe
This vegetable soup is a mix of fresh, wholesome ingredients that create a satisfying, comforting dish. The key to its deliciousness lies in the perfectly balanced broth, which is the foundation of the whole soup. The soup uses a blend of vegetables that are tender, savory, and incredibly satisfying. Here’s how you can recreate it at home!
Ingredients Needed
For the soup to taste just like the Ponderosa Steakhouse version, you’ll need a variety of fresh ingredients. Here’s the full breakdown of what you’ll need:
Vegetables
- Potatoes (3-4 medium-sized): These are the heart and soul of the soup, adding thickness and texture. You’ll want to peel and dice them into bite-sized pieces.
- Carrots (2-3 large): Sweet and slightly crunchy when cooked, carrots provide color and a nice natural sweetness to balance out the savory elements.
- Celery (2-3 stalks): Adds a fresh, crisp texture and a subtle aromatic flavor.
- Onion (1 large): The key aromatic, onion brings a rich, savory base to the soup.
- Green beans (1 cup): These add some extra vegetable variety and texture to the mix.
- Tomatoes (2 medium-sized or 1 cup of diced canned tomatoes): For acidity and a touch of sweetness.
Broth & Seasonings
- Beef broth (6 cups): Beef broth is a traditional base for this soup, giving it a hearty depth of flavor. You can use vegetable broth for a lighter version, but beef broth brings a richness that is key to the Ponderosa flavor.
- Garlic (2-3 cloves): Fresh garlic brings a subtle yet pungent flavor that rounds out the soup’s depth.
- Bay leaves (2): These add an herbal fragrance and a subtle depth of flavor.
- Salt (to taste): Don’t skimp on salt-it helps to bring out the natural flavors of the vegetables.
- Black pepper (to taste): A touch of black pepper adds a bit of heat and balance to the soup.
- Dried thyme (1 teaspoon): Thyme has a warm, earthy flavor that complements the vegetables and broth beautifully.
Optional Add-ins
- Frozen peas (½ cup): If you’re in the mood for a pop of green, peas are a great addition. They add a slight sweetness.
- Corn kernels (½ cup): Corn adds a pleasant sweetness and texture to the soup.
Cooking Instructions
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to put everything together. This is a simple, no-fuss process that will have you enjoying a bowl of soup in no time.
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Prepare The Vegetables
- Peel and dice the potatoes into bite-sized chunks.
- Slice the carrots into rounds or half-moons, depending on your preference.
- Chop the celery and onion into small pieces.
- If using fresh tomatoes, dice them into small cubes. If you’re using canned tomatoes, no need to chop them, just drain and add them directly to the pot.
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Sauté The Aromatics
- In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and garlic.
- Sauté the onion and garlic for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
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Add The Broth And Vegetables
- Pour in the beef broth, followed by the potatoes, carrots, celery, and green beans.
- Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a boil.
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Season The Soup
- Once the broth is boiling, add the bay leaves, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
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Add The Final Touches
- If you’re adding optional ingredients like peas or corn, toss them in during the last 10 minutes of simmering to ensure they stay tender and don’t overcook.
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Taste And Adjust
- Once the soup is ready, give it a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaves before serving.
Ingredient Insights
Understanding the ingredients you’re using makes a huge difference in how the dish turns out. Here’s a deeper look into some of the star ingredients:
- Beef Broth: The base of this soup is critical, and beef broth provides a rich, savory foundation that elevates the flavor of the vegetables. If you opt for homemade beef broth, you’ll notice even greater depth, but store-bought works well too. Consider using low-sodium options to have more control over the saltiness.
- Potatoes: Potatoes are the perfect ingredient in vegetable soup because they act as both a filler and a flavor enhancer. They absorb the broth’s flavors and break down slightly as they cook, helping to thicken the soup and give it a creamy texture without the need for cream.
- Herbs: Thyme and bay leaves are often overlooked in recipes, but they’re both essential here. Thyme’s earthy notes ground the soup, while bay leaves add a subtle aromatic essence. Just don’t forget to remove them before serving!
Expert Tips
Want to make your Ponderosa Steakhouse vegetable soup even better? Here are some expert tips to perfect your dish:
- Balance the Broth: If you find the soup too rich, add a little water or extra vegetable broth. For a more intense flavor, simmer the soup for longer to let the flavors meld together.
- Use Fresh Veggies: If you can, opt for fresh over frozen vegetables for a more vibrant and naturally sweet flavor. But don’t hesitate to use frozen veggies when you need to.
- Texture Tip: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes with a spoon against the side of the pot to release starch and thicken the broth naturally.
- Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to deepen. It’s the perfect make-ahead meal.
Recipe Variations
While the traditional Ponderosa version is pretty great as-is, you can experiment with a few variations depending on what you’re in the mood for:
- Add Meat: For a heartier soup, try adding cooked ground beef or shredded chicken. Just brown the meat before adding it to the soup so it absorbs the flavors of the broth.
- Vegan Version: Swap out the beef broth for vegetable broth, and you’ve got yourself a vegan-friendly version that’s just as delicious. You can also skip any meat-based add-ins to keep it fully plant-based.
- Spicy Twist: If you like a little heat, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or some chopped jalapeños to spice things up.
- Herb Variations: If thyme isn’t your favorite, feel free to experiment with rosemary, oregano, or even basil for a different herb profile.
Final Words
Soup is comfort in a bowl, and the Ponderosa Steakhouse vegetable soup is no exception. It’s a dish that’s hearty, filling, and endlessly customizable. Whether you stick to the classic ingredients or add your own twist, this soup is sure to warm you up on a chilly day.
The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity. It doesn’t require any special techniques or hard-to-find ingredients-just a bit of time and care to bring everything together into one delicious bowl. And because it’s packed with veggies, it’s also a healthy option that makes for a well-rounded meal.
FAQs
What Are The Key Ingredients In Ponderosa Steakhouse Vegetable Soup?
The key ingredients in Ponderosa Steakhouse vegetable soup typically include carrots, celery, onions, potatoes, green beans, peas, corn, tomatoes, and a savory broth base made from beef or vegetable stock.
How Can I Make Ponderosa Steakhouse Vegetable Soup At Home?
To make Ponderosa Steakhouse vegetable soup at home, sauté onions, celery, and carrots in a pot. Add broth, potatoes, and other vegetables. Simmer for about 30-45 minutes until vegetables are tender. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs to taste.
Can I Add Meat To The Ponderosa Steakhouse Vegetable Soup?
Yes, while the Ponderosa Steakhouse vegetable soup is typically vegetarian, you can add meat such as ground beef, turkey, or even ham for added protein and flavor.
What Type Of Broth Is Used In Ponderosa Steakhouse Vegetable Soup?
Ponderosa Steakhouse vegetable soup is commonly made with either beef broth or vegetable broth. The choice of broth enhances the flavor of the soup, with beef broth providing a richer, heartier taste.
Can I Make Ponderosa Steakhouse Vegetable Soup In A Slow Cooker?
Yes, Ponderosa Steakhouse vegetable soup can be made in a slow cooker. Simply combine all the ingredients and set the slow cooker to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender.
What Seasonings Are Used In Ponderosa Steakhouse Vegetable Soup?
Common seasonings for Ponderosa Steakhouse vegetable soup include salt, black pepper, garlic, thyme, parsley, and bay leaves. Some variations also include Italian seasoning or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables For Ponderosa Steakhouse Vegetable Soup?
Yes, you can use frozen vegetables as a substitute for fresh ones. However, it is recommended to add them later in the cooking process to prevent overcooking, as frozen vegetables are already pre-cooked.
Is Ponderosa Steakhouse Vegetable Soup Gluten-free?
Ponderosa Steakhouse vegetable soup can be made gluten-free by ensuring the broth is free from gluten and avoiding ingredients like flour as a thickening agent. Always check labels if using pre-made products.
How Long Does Ponderosa Steakhouse Vegetable Soup Last In The Refrigerator?
Ponderosa Steakhouse vegetable soup can last for up to 4-5 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. It may also be frozen for up to 3 months for longer storage.
Can I Make Ponderosa Steakhouse Vegetable Soup Vegetarian Or Vegan?
Yes, you can make Ponderosa Steakhouse vegetable soup vegetarian or vegan by using vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and ensuring that no animal-derived products such as butter or meat are included in the recipe.