Hearty Beef and Potato Soup: A Comforting Classic
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The Story Behind Beef and Potato Soup
Beef and Potato Soup has its roots in traditional farmhouse cooking, where hearty, nutritious meals were essential for hardworking families. This soup emerged as a practical way to create a filling meal using simple, available ingredients. The combination of beef and potatoes has long been a staple in various cultures, particularly in European and American cuisine, where it represents comfort food at its finest.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and Filling: A complete meal in a bowl that satisfies even the biggest appetites.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable ingredients and makes the most of cheaper cuts of beef.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Tastes even better the next day as flavors develop.
- Customizable: Easy to adapt with different vegetables or seasonings.
Variations
- Irish Style: Add cabbage and replace beef broth with Guinness beer.
- Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños and cayenne pepper.
- Creamy Version: Stir in heavy cream at the end.
- Low-Carb: Replace potatoes with cauliflower or turnips.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store in airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers.
Leftovers
- Thicken and serve over rice or noodles.
- Use as pot pie filling.
- Add extra broth to make a thinner soup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best cut of beef to use? Chuck roast or stew meat work best as they become tender with slow cooking.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
Why are my potatoes falling apart?
This usually happens if they’re overcooked or cut too small. Keep chunks larger and add them later in cooking.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Beef and Potato Soup Recipe
A complete meal in a bowl that satisfies even the biggest appetites.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 1½ pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups water
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
Prepare the Beef:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Season beef cubes with salt and pepper, then sear in batches until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same pot, add diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Simmer the Soup:
- Return the beef to the pot and pour in beef broth and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, covered.
- Add potatoes, carrots, celery, thyme, and smoked paprika. Simmer for an additional 30 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve:
- Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.
Nutritional Information
| Calories | 320 |
|---|---|
| Carbohydrates | 28g |
| Total Fat | 12g |
| Cholesterol | 65mg |
| Dietary Fiber | 4g |
| Sodium | 780mg |
| Sugar | 4g |
| Protein | 25g |
Recipe Notes
- For extra flavor, deglaze the pot with a splash of red wine before adding the broth.
- Cut vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
- For a thicker soup, mash a few potato chunks into the broth before serving.
- Leftovers can be reheated on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Final Thoughts
Beef and Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a hearty, satisfying meal. Its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients make it a family favorite that’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this soup is sure to warm your heart and home.