Grandma’s old fashioned vegetable soup is a combination of hearty vegetables, ground beef, and savory seasonings creates a flavorful and satisfying meal. It’s easy to make and can be adjusted to include your favorite vegetables. Let’s get started on this classic recipe.
1. Grandma’s Old Fashioned Vegetable Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 large can stewed tomatoes
- 1 large can tomato sauce
- 1 can peas and carrots, drained
- 1 can green beans, drained
- 2 Idaho potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
- Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder (to taste)
- ½ teaspoon hot sauce
- ¼ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
Brown the Ground Beef: Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add the Vegetables: Once the beef is browned, add the stewed tomatoes (including their juice), tomato sauce, peas and carrots, green beans, and potatoes. Stir everything together and allow it to cook for a few minutes to combine the flavors.
Seasoning: Season the soup with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to taste. The key here is to season in layers, so start with a pinch of each and taste as you go. The Worcestershire sauce and hot sauce bring an extra depth of flavor, so add those too. Stir everything well.
Simmer: Bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Let it cook uncovered for about 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally. The potatoes should become tender, and the flavors will meld together beautifully.
Taste and Adjust: Taste the soup once the vegetables are tender and the broth is rich. You can add more salt, pepper, or hot sauce depending on your personal preferences.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. This soup is perfect on its own or with a side of crusty bread.
2. Tips for Perfect Vegetable Soup
Use Fresh Ingredients: While canned vegetables work well in this recipe, you can enhance the flavor by using fresh vegetables. Fresh peas, carrots, or green beans will elevate the soup even more.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: Avoid overcrowding the pot with too many vegetables. It’s important to give each ingredient enough space to cook properly and release its flavors.
Simmer Slowly: Low and slow is the way to go when making this soup. Allowing the soup to simmer over a longer period allows all the flavors to blend together beautifully.
Adjust Seasonings Gradually: Season to taste. It’s always better to add a little at a time and taste as you go, especially when it comes to things like salt and hot sauce. You can always add more, but you can’t take it away!
Add a Dash of Herbs: If you enjoy herbs, try adding a sprinkle of dried thyme or parsley for extra flavor. Fresh herbs like basil or rosemary can also bring a nice twist.
3. What to Eat With Vegetable Soup
Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Vegetable Soup is a meal in itself, but pairing it with the right sides can really elevate the experience. Here are a few ideas:
Crusty Bread: Nothing beats a warm bowl of soup with a side of freshly baked crusty bread. The bread can be used to dip in the broth or to soak up the delicious flavors.
Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: A classic pairing that never goes out of style. The creamy, melty cheese contrasts wonderfully with the savory soup.
Salad: A light, fresh salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup.
Cornbread: For a Southern twist, serve this soup with a piece of buttery cornbread. It adds a delightful contrast to the savory and slightly tangy soup.
4. How To Store & Reheat Leftovers
Storing: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day.
Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave.
This old fashioned vegetable soup is a timeless recipe that delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. The savory combination of ground beef, vegetables, and potatoes, all simmered in a tomato-rich broth, makes for a comforting and hearty meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. It’s a versatile recipe that can easily be adapted to suit your preferences, and it’s sure to become a family favorite.
