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#### Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the chopped **onion**, **carrots**, **celery**, and minced **garlic** to the pot with the beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
#### Step 3: Add the Liquids and Seasonings
Add the **diced tomatoes** (with juice), **beef broth**, and **bay leaf** to the pot. Season with **dried basil**, **oregano**, **salt**, and **pepper**. Stir well, and bring the soup to a simmer.
#### Step 4: Add the Potatoes and Beans
Add the diced **potatoes** and **kidney beans** to the pot. Stir everything together, and let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
#### Step 5: Add the Frozen Vegetables
Once the potatoes are cooked, stir in the **frozen peas** and **corn kernels**. Continue to cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the vegetables to heat through and soften.
#### Step 6: Taste and Adjust Seasonings
Give the soup a taste, and adjust the seasonings if necessary. Add more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
#### Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the **bay leaf** (if used), and ladle the soup into bowls. You can garnish with fresh herbs or top it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated cheese, if desired. Serve it hot and enjoy!
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### Health Benefits of Ground Beef Vegetable Soup
This soup is not only delicious, but it’s also packed with health benefits. Here’s how the ingredients contribute to a nutritious meal:
– **Protein-Packed**: Ground beef is a rich source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall health.
– **Fiber-Rich**: Vegetables like **carrots**, **celery**, **peas**, and **beans** provide plenty of fiber, which promotes healthy digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.
– **Vitamins and Minerals**: The soup includes a variety of vegetables that offer important nutrients, including **vitamin A** (for vision and skin health), **vitamin C** (for immune support), and **potassium** (for heart health).
– **Hydration**: The broth-based soup helps keep you hydrated, especially during colder months when hydration is often overlooked.
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### Variations & Tips
– **Spicy Kick**: Add some **red pepper flakes** or **chopped jalapeños** to spice up the soup.
– **Lean Protein**: For a lighter version, swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken.
– **Extra Greens**: Toss in some **spinach**, **kale**, or **Swiss chard** for added nutrients and color.
– **Slow Cooker Version**: If you prefer a hands-off method, cook this soup in a slow cooker. Brown the ground beef and then add all the ingredients to the slow cooker. Let it cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
– **Vegetarian Option**: Skip the ground beef and add extra beans or lentils for a vegetarian-friendly version of this soup.
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### Final Thoughts
**Ground Beef Vegetable Soup** is the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for any season. It’s filling, nutritious, and easy to make with basic ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility — you can adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences or what you have available. Whether you’re making it on a chilly night or preparing it for meal prep, this soup will become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.
Looking for more hearty soup recipes? Let me know, and I’ll be happy to share more comforting options!
Enjoy a warm bowl of this nourishing soup today!
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This recipe makes for a wholesome, satisfying meal that will keep you and your family coming back for more.
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