When it comes to the wonderful world of soups, there’s something inherently comforting about a hearty bowl brimming with wholesome ingredients, simplicity, and rich, nourishing flavors. This “Hearty Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup” has all the makings of a classic comfort meal, drawing inspiration from the rustic traditions of countryside cooking, particularly in Mediterranean cuisine. It combines everyday ingredients and the warm embrace of home-cooked simplicity, making it perfect for everything from chilly evenings to casual family dinners.
The soup’s foundation begins with aromatic ingredients like olive oil, yellow onions, and garlic—the trifecta of Mediterranean cooking that fills the kitchen with inviting fragrances. These foundational ingredients aren’t just about flavor—they serve to build an aromatic base that enhances every layer of the dish to follow. Paired with lean ground beef, this forms a deeply savory and satisfying core that provides the protein and heartiness that all great soups deserve.
Vegetables take center stage alongside the ground beef in this recipe, providing balance, texture, and fresh brightness. The combination of carrots, potatoes, and green beans is both classic and versatile, celebrating the vibrancy of seasonal produce. Each vegetable not only adds its distinct flavor and texture but also contributes essential nutrients, making this soup as nourishing as it is delicious. The addition of diced tomatoes brings a subtle acidity to the mix, complementing the richness of the beef while helping to tie the dish’s flavors together.
What truly elevates this soup, however, is its use of herbs and spices. Dried oregano and thyme lend a Mediterranean flair with their earthy, aromatic qualities, while freshly ground black pepper adds a gentle heat. Garnishing the soup with freshly chopped parsley at the end ensures a burst of freshness, balancing the simmered depth of the broth with a pop of brightness. The seasoning is simple yet intentional, ensuring that every spoonful tastes harmonious and satisfying.
The versatile beef broth that carries these ingredients serves as both a cooking medium and a flavor enhancer. While low-sodium broth is recommended to allow control over seasoning, feel free to use a homemade broth for an even richer result. A splash of red wine, as suggested in the recipe notes, is an optional but luxurious addition that further deepens the flavors and ties the Mediterranean elements together beautifully.
This soup is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. Rooted in humble ingredients and home-cooked tradition, it feels like the culinary equivalent of a warm blanket. From the first spoonful, you’ll taste the careful layering of flavors and textures: the tenderness of the ground beef, the sweetness of the carrots, the creaminess of the potatoes, and the subtle snap of the green beans. Pair it with a crusty loaf of bread, and you’ve got yourself a full, soul-soothing meal.
Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this Hearty Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup invites you to slow down, savor each bite, and enjoy the simple pleasure of a warm, nourishing bowl. It’s a dish that’s not only easy to prepare but filled with the kind of love and care that makes home cooking so deeply satisfying.
Hearty Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup
Ingredients
Soup Base
1 tablespoon olive oil - extra virgin
1 cup yellow onion - diced
3 cloves garlic - minced
400 grams ground beef - preferably lean
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper - freshly ground
Vegetables
2 cups carrots - sliced
2 cups potatoes - peeled and cubed
1.5 cups green beans - trimmed and halved- 1 can diced tomatoes - 400 grams, including juice
4 cups beef stock (beef broth or beef bouillon) - low sodium
Herbs and Seasoning
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 tablespoon parsley - fresh, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté until they become translucent, approximately 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and continue to cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, about 8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Stir in the sliced carrots, cubed potatoes, and green beans. Add the can of diced tomatoes along with the beef broth, oregano, and thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld together.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
