Hamburger Vegetable Soup

A quiet evening in the kitchen often sparks the best flavors. The comforting aroma of a bubbling pot of hamburger vegetable soup fills the air, instantly bringing warmth and nostalgia. This dish reminds me of cozy nights where family gathers around the table, sharing stories and laughter. It transforms simple ingredients into a hearty meal that satisfies both the belly and the soul.

Hamburger vegetable soup has a special place in home cooking. It brings the goodness of ground beef together with bright vegetables, creating a nutritious and delicious medley. The foundation lies in its fresh ingredients, showcasing the inherent flavors of each element while allowing flexibility in preparation. Whether you’re hungry after a long day or seeking a way to connect over dinner, this soup delivers comfort in every spoonful.

Crafting this meal feels effortless yet fulfilling. It encourages kitchen creativity and serves as a reminder of the powerful role food plays in our lives. With each bite, that blend of savory beef and vibrant vegetables speaks to the joy of simple cooking. Dive into this culinary adventure, and explore how to whip up a pot of Hamburger Vegetable Soup that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Hamburger Vegetable Soup

Fundamentals

Hamburger vegetable soup is built on a foundation of hearty ingredients and unpretentious cooking. Ground beef forms the base, providing a rich flavor that perfectly complements an array of colorful vegetables. The natural sweetness of carrots and the crispness of celery pair beautifully with the meaty backdrop, creating a well-balanced dish.

The soup’s versatility is one of its best features. You can easily adapt it based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. Feel free to switch up vegetables, add your favorite herbs, or adjust the seasoning to suit your taste. The simplicity of this recipe allows for endless variations, making it an appealing option for busy weeknights or an easy meal prep solution.

Preparation/setup

To start, gather your ingredients in one place. You will need 1 pound of ground beef, along with an onion, 2 carrots, 2 celery stalks, and 2 cloves of garlic. This combination forms the aromatic base that will enhance the flavor of your soup. Don’t forget 1 can of diced tomatoes, 4 cups of beef broth, and 1 cup of frozen mixed vegetables, along with 1 teaspoon of dried oregano. Salt and pepper will bring everything together.

Begin by browning the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. It’s essential to cook until it turns a deep brown, which adds great depth of flavor. Drain any excess fat from the pot to keep the soup from becoming greasy and heavy. Once the beef is cooked, it’s time to add the chopped vegetables, allowing their natural flavors to meld into the dish.

Ingredients

The beauty of hamburger vegetable soup lies in its straightforward ingredients. You’ll need the following:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Each ingredient contributes to the overall flavor and texture of the soup. The ground beef provides protein, while the diced vegetables add color and nutrition. By using frozen mixed vegetables, you save time and ensure that you always have a convenient option in the freezer.

Directions

1. In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
2. Add onions, carrots, celery, and garlic, and sauté until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, frozen vegetables, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes.
5. Adjust seasoning if necessary before serving.

The cooking process melds the flavors beautifully. Allow it to simmer, letting the ingredients soften and harmonize. You’ll notice the wonderful scent wafting through your home, inviting everyone to gather around.

Creating the Perfect Hamburger Vegetable Soup

Technique

The right technique can elevate your hamburger vegetable soup from good to fantastic. Browning the ground beef properly ensures that it develops rich flavor. This process creates a fond, or browned bits, on the bottom of the pot that contribute to the soup’s depth.

When sautéing vegetables, don’t rush the process. Take the time to soften them, allowing their natural sugars to caramelize slightly. This step adds sweetness and complexity to the soup. Once you combine the tomatoes and broth, bringing it to a boil accelerates flavor development, while letting it simmer allows the various ingredients to mingle.

Tips/tricks

Here are some tips to enhance your cooking experience:

• Always taste your soup as it cooks. Adjust seasoning based on your palate; a pinch of salt or a dash of pepper can make a world of difference.
• Consider adding herbs or spices during the simmer. Flexible ingredients can include thyme, bay leaves, or a pinch of crushed red pepper for some heat.
• Leftovers are a culinary treasure. Store any extra soup in an airtight container and enjoy it the next day; the flavors meld further overnight.

Customizing your soup with unique twists can add excitement to this classic recipe. Experimenting will lead you to your perfect version of hamburger vegetable soup.

Perfecting Your Hamburger Vegetable Soup

Perfecting results

Achieving the ideal hamburger vegetable soup requires careful attention. The balance of meat and vegetables plays a significant role in the soup’s success. Ensure you chop your vegetables uniformly for even cooking and a pleasant texture.

During the simmering phase, check for your desired consistency. If it’s too thick, add more beef broth or water. If it’s too thin, a longer cook time allows excess liquid to evaporate, concentrating flavors.

Troubleshooting/variations

In cooking, challenges are inevitable. If your soup feels bland, don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning. A little more salt or a splash of Worcestershire sauce can give it a punch. Alternatively, fresh herbs just before serving can brighten the dish.

For variations, swap out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. This slight change will offer a different flavor profile while still maintaining the soup’s heartiness. Explore adding beans or lentils for added protein and fiber.

Serving and Storing Hamburger Vegetable Soup

Serving/presentation

Serving hamburger vegetable soup is an opportunity to embrace its warmth. Ladle the soup into bowls, sprinkle with fresh herbs for a pop of color, or offer grated cheese as a garnish. A slice of crusty bread or a warm buttered roll pairs beautifully with this comforting dish, making it feel complete.

This soup can also become a fabulous centerpiece for gatherings. Set a large pot on the table, providing guests with bowls and toppings, encouraging a communal experience.

Pairings/storage

While the soup is delightful on its own, consider side dishes that enhance the meal. A crisp garden salad or a slice of homemade cornbread pairs wonderfully without overshadowing the soup’s flavors.

For storage, cool any leftover soup to room temperature. Divide it into portions and transfer to airtight containers. Store the soup in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer-lasting enjoyment. When reheating, do it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

This hamburger vegetable soup becomes more flavorful over time, making it an excellent option for meal prep.

In this culinary journey of crafting hamburger vegetable soup, you not only create a satisfying dish, but you also foster connection, warmth, and delightful memories with every serving. Embrace the joy of cooking, share the goodness with others, and relish the comfort that comes from a hearty bowl of soup.

Hamburger Vegetable Soup

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• Author: cov3
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten-Free

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Description

A comforting and hearty hamburger vegetable soup filled with rich flavors and nutritious vegetables, perfect for cozy family dinners.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
2. Add onions, carrots, celery, and garlic, and sauté until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, frozen vegetables, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes.
5. Adjust seasoning if necessary before serving.

Notes

Feel free to customize with different vegetables or proteins like ground turkey or beans for a nutritious twist.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Soups
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 750mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: soup, hamburger, vegetable, comfort food, family dinner