Ground Beef Vegetable Soup Recipe

Olive oil: Used for sautéing the vegetables, adding a rich flavor.

Onion: Adds a sweet and savory base to the soup.

Garlic: Provides a pungent and aromatic flavor.

Carrots: Adds sweetness and a slight crunch.

Celery: Contributes a subtle, earthy flavor and crunch.

Zucchini: Adds a mild flavor and soft texture.

Green beans: Adds a fresh, slightly sweet flavor.

Frozen peas: Adds a pop of sweetness and color.

Diced tomatoes: Adds acidity and a rich tomato flavor.

Vegetable broth: Forms the base of the soup, adding depth of flavor.

Plant-based ground beef: Adds a meaty texture and protein.

Dried thyme: Adds a subtle earthy flavor.

Dried basil: Adds a sweet and slightly peppery flavor.

Salt: Enhances all the flavors in the soup.

Black pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth of flavor.

When sautéing the onion and garlic, make sure to cook them until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant. This step is crucial as it builds the foundational flavors for the soup. Additionally, when adding the plant-based ground beef, break it up into smaller pieces to ensure even cooking and better texture throughout the soup.

• Plant-based ground beef - Substitute with lentils: Lentils provide a similar texture and are rich in protein and fiber, making them an excellent vegan alternative.

• Plant-based ground beef - Substitute with mushrooms: Finely chopped mushrooms can mimic the texture of ground beef and add a savory umami flavor to the soup.

• Plant-based ground beef - Substitute with textured vegetable protein (TVP): TVP is a dehydrated soy product that, when rehydrated, has a texture similar to ground beef and absorbs flavors well.

• Plant-based ground beef - Substitute with crumbled tofu: Tofu can be crumbled to resemble ground beef and will absorb the flavors of the soup, providing a good source of protein.

• Plant-based ground beef - Substitute with tempeh: Crumbled tempeh offers a nutty flavor and firm texture, making it a great protein-rich substitute for ground beef.

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can lead to a watery texture and spoilage.

• Transfer the soup to airtight containers. Use containers that are the right size for your portions to minimize air exposure.

• Label the containers with the date. This ensures you keep track of how long the soup has been stored.

• Store the soup in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. This keeps the vegetables and plant-based ground beef fresh and flavorful.

• For longer storage, freeze the soup. Pour the soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion.

• Lay freezer bags flat in the freezer. This saves space and allows the soup to freeze more quickly and evenly.

• When ready to eat, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps maintain the texture and flavor of the vegetables and plant-based ground beef.

• Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and to prevent the soup from sticking to the pot.

• Alternatively, reheat individual portions in the microwave. Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely, and heat in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring in between.

• Add a splash of vegetable broth or water if the soup has thickened too much during storage. This helps restore its original consistency.

• Enjoy your reheated ground beef vegetable soup with a fresh slice of bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

• Stovetop method:

  1. Pour the leftover soup into a pot.
  2. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
  3. Once the soup reaches a gentle boil, reduce the heat to low and simmer for a few minutes until thoroughly heated.
  4. Serve hot and enjoy the rejuvenated flavors.

• Microwave method:

  1. Transfer the soup into a microwave-safe bowl.
  2. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or a microwave-safe plate to prevent splatters.
  3. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
  4. Check the temperature and heat for an additional 1-2 minutes if necessary.
  5. Carefully remove from the microwave, stir, and serve hot.

• Oven method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Transfer the soup into an oven-safe dish or casserole.
  3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture.
  4. Heat in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  5. Once heated thoroughly, remove from the oven, stir, and serve hot.

• Slow cooker method:

  1. Pour the leftover soup into the slow cooker.
  2. Set the slow cooker to the low setting.
  3. Heat for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
  4. Once the soup is hot, switch the slow cooker to the warm setting until ready to serve.

• Large pot: A large pot is essential for cooking the soup, allowing enough space for all the ingredients to simmer together.

• Wooden spoon: A wooden spoon is useful for stirring the ingredients without scratching the pot.

• Chef's knife: A chef's knife is needed for chopping the onions, carrots, celery, zucchini, and green beans.

• Cutting board: A cutting board provides a safe surface for chopping all the vegetables.

• Measuring cups: Measuring cups are used to measure out the correct amounts of vegetables, broth, and plant-based ground beef.

• Measuring spoons: Measuring spoons are necessary for accurately measuring the thyme, basil, salt, and pepper.

• Garlic press: A garlic press can be used to mince the garlic quickly and efficiently.

• Can opener: A can opener is needed to open the can of diced tomatoes.

• Ladle: A ladle is useful for serving the hot soup into bowls.

Prep ingredients in advance: Chop onions, garlic, carrots, celery, zucchini, and green beans the night before to save time.

Use pre-chopped vegetables: Purchase pre-chopped vegetables from the store to cut down on prep time.

Opt for canned vegetables: Use canned diced tomatoes and frozen peas to reduce cooking time.

Batch cook: Make a larger batch of soup and freeze portions for future meals.

Instant pot method: Use an Instant Pot to cook the soup faster.