Beef Noodle Soup Recipe: A Comforting Delight for Fall and Winter

Introduction

Indulge in the warmth and comfort of a hearty Beef Noodle Soup, boasting tender beef chuck roast, earthy mushrooms, vibrant vegetables, and savory egg noodles bathed in a flavorful broth. Perfect for chilly days, this recipe promises to satisfy your cravings and soothe your soul.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 2 ½ tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 8 ounces white button mushrooms, sliced
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 ribs celery, chopped
• 3 large carrots, peeled and chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2-3 lb beef chuck roast, trimmed and cut into bite-size pieces
• Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper
• 8 cups low sodium beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried marjoram or oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon crushed rosemary
• 2 bay leaves
• 8 ounces wide egg noodles
• Chopped fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare Vegetables: Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil and butter in a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms and cook for 2-3 minutes until they start to brown. Add onions, celery, and carrots, cooking until onions and celery are soft and carrots begin to soften. Reduce heat, add garlic, and cook for 1 minute. Transfer veggies to a bowl and cover with a paper towel.
2. Cook Beef: Season beef with salt and pepper. Add a little more oil to the pot and brown beef on both sides. Add beef broth, marjoram, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil, cover, and simmer for about 1 hour until beef is tender.
3. Add Noodles: Stir in egg noodles and cook for 5 minutes. Return reserved veggies to the pot and continue simmering for 5-7 minutes until noodles and carrots are tender.
4. Serve: Remove bay leaves and garnish with chopped herbs. Serve hot for ultimate enjoyment.

Tips

• Opt for chuck roast for optimal taste and texture. Pre-cut beef stew meat can also be used, but be cautious of the variety of cuts.
• Cut vegetables into small pieces for a well-balanced spoonful in every bite.
• Experiment with additional vegetables like peas, green beans, tomatoes, or bell peppers to enhance flavor and nutrition.
• Substitute cremini mushrooms for white button mushrooms for a deeper, earthier flavor profile.
• Peel carrots for a visually appealing dish with bursts of vibrant color.
• Remember to remove bay leaves before serving to avoid any choking hazards.
• Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
• Freeze leftover soup in a heavy-duty freezer bag or container for up to 3 months for future enjoyment.

FAQs

1. Can I use different cuts of beef for this soup?
While chuck roast is recommended for its tenderness and flavor, you can experiment with other cuts like sirloin or brisket. Adjust cooking times accordingly for best results.

2. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute beef broth with vegetable broth and omit the beef. Add more vegetables or even tofu for a delicious vegetarian version.

3. Can I add other herbs to the soup?
Certainly! Feel free to customize the herb blend to suit your taste preferences. Fresh herbs like thyme, parsley, or cilantro can elevate the flavor profile of the soup.

4. How do I prevent the noodles from becoming mushy?
To ensure perfectly cooked noodles, slightly undercook them before adding to the soup. They will continue to cook as the soup simmers, preventing them from becoming overly soft.

5. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables as instructed, then transfer everything to the slow cooker along with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until beef is tender and flavors meld together.

Conclusion

Savor the rich flavors and comforting warmth of Beef Noodle Soup, a classic dish perfect for cooler seasons. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the nourishing goodness of homemade soup that’s both satisfying and soul-soothing.