Vegetable hamburger soup

Introduction

Craving a hearty and comforting meal that’s packed with vegetables and easy to make? Look no further than vegetable hamburger soup! This classic soup is a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy a complete meal in a bowl. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, chilly weather, or anytime you need a satisfying and budget-friendly option. This recipe is easily adaptable to your favorite veggies and spices, making it a customizable family favorite.

Making the Best Vegetable Hamburger Soup

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a basic list of ingredients to get you started. Feel free to swap out vegetables based on your preferences and what you have on hand!

• 1 pound ground beef (lean or regular)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained
• 4 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 cup water
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
• Optional: 1 cup chopped cabbage, 1/2 cup chopped green beans, 1/2 cup frozen peas, potatoes (diced)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. **Brown the Beef:** In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
2. **Sauté Vegetables:** Add onion, carrots, and celery to the pot with the beef. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
3. **Add Remaining Ingredients:** Stir in diced tomatoes (undrained), kidney beans, corn, beef broth, water, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. If using, add any optional vegetables like cabbage, green beans, potatoes, or peas at this stage.
4. **Simmer:** Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, allowing the flavors to meld together. The longer it simmers, the better it tastes!
5. **Taste and Adjust:** Taste the soup and adjust seasonings as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning.
6. **Serve:** Ladle the vegetable hamburger soup into bowls and serve hot.

Tips for the Best Soup

• **Use Quality Beef:** Lean ground beef will result in a healthier soup, but regular ground beef adds more flavor.
• **Don’t Skip the Sautéing:** Sautéing the vegetables before adding the broth helps to develop their flavor.
• **Customize Your Veggies:** Feel free to add or substitute vegetables based on your preferences. Root vegetables like potatoes and parsnips are great additions.
• **Add a Kick:** For a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• **Make it Vegetarian:** Substitute the ground beef with lentils or another plant-based protein for a vegetarian version. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
• **Freezing and Storage:** Vegetable hamburger soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It also freezes well for up to 2-3 months. Thaw completely before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

Vegetable hamburger soup is a complete meal on its own, but here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience:

• Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
• Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or a dollop of Greek yogurt.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro.
• Add a side salad for a lighter meal.

Conclusion

Vegetable hamburger soup is a versatile and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make, packed with nutrients, and can be customized to your liking. So, gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and enjoy a delicious and comforting bowl of homemade soup!