Hearty Turkey or Beef Vegetable Soup Recipe
When the weather calls for comfort food, few dishes deliver like a hearty bowl of turkey or beef vegetable soup. Packed with fresh vegetables, tender meat, and a creamy broth, this recipe is a one-pot wonder perfect for any occasion. Below, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process to prepare this nourishing dish, along with tips to ensure success and answers to frequently asked questions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This soup is built around a blend of wholesome ingredients that come together to create a rich and satisfying flavor profile:
- 1 tiny onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound of ground turkey or beef
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cups of beef or chicken broth
- 1 cup of frozen peas (defrosted)
- 1 cup of frozen corn
- 1 large potato, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Fresh thyme, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnishing)
- Optional: shredded cheddar cheese for topping
Step-by-Step Instructions
Get the Meat Ready
- Warm the Oil: Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Cook the Meat: Add the ground turkey or beef to the pan, breaking it apart with a spoon. Stir occasionally until fully browned. If excess fat is present, drain it.
- Add Aromatics: Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for about 2 minutes, letting the flavors meld.
- Add Vegetables: Toss in the sliced carrots and chopped celery. Stir and sauté for 5–7 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften.
Incorporate Stock and Potatoes
- Combine Ingredients: Add the diced potatoes, thyme, and rosemary to the pan.
- Pour in the Broth: Stir everything together, then add the beef or chicken broth. Ensure the potatoes are submerged for even cooking.
Simmer to Perfection
- Bring to a Boil: Turn the heat to high until the soup begins to boil.
- Lower the Heat: Reduce to a gentle simmer, cover the pot, and cook for 20–25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Add the Final Touches
- Incorporate the Cream and Veggies: Stir in the heavy cream (or milk), frozen peas, and frozen corn.
- Heat Through: Simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the peas and corn to warm without losing their vibrant color.
Serve and Enjoy
- Season to Taste: Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Optional Cheese Topping: For a cheesy upgrade, sprinkle shredded cheddar on top while the soup is still hot, allowing it to melt slightly.
Tips for the Perfect Soup
- Meat Choice: Ground turkey provides a leaner option, while beef offers a heartier flavor. Choose according to your taste and dietary needs.
- Broth Matters: Opt for a high-quality beef or chicken broth for richer flavor. Homemade broth is ideal.
- Consistency Control: Prefer a thicker soup? Mash a few potato chunks in the pot to naturally thicken the broth.
- Herb Variations: Fresh herbs like parsley and thyme enhance flavor, but dried options work if fresh ones aren’t available.
- Storage Tip: Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain the creamy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other vegetables in this soup?
Absolutely! You can customize the recipe by adding vegetables like green beans, zucchini, or spinach.
What’s the best way to defrost frozen peas?
Place the peas in a bowl of warm water for a few minutes before adding them to the soup.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy creamer for a creamy yet dairy-free option.
Is it possible to freeze this soup?
Yes, but avoid adding the milk or cream before freezing. When reheating, stir in the cream for a freshly made taste.
How do I avoid overcooking the vegetables?
Add the carrots and celery early on for a tender texture but reserve delicate veggies like peas for the final minutes of cooking.
With this hearty turkey or beef vegetable soup recipe, you’ll have a satisfying, nutrient-packed meal ready to impress. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this soup is bound to be a hit!