Beef and Vegetable Soup Recipe UK: Easy & Delicious Guide

When the chilly British weather sets in, nothing beats a warm, hearty bowl of beef and vegetable soup. This classic UK favourite is not just comforting but also packed with wholesome ingredients that nourish the body and soul.

Whether you’re looking for a simple dinner after a long day or a nutritious meal to share with family and friends, this soup ticks all the boxes. The rich flavours of tender beef combined with a medley of fresh vegetables create a perfect balance of taste and texture.

Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, making it easy to adapt to whatever you have on hand in your kitchen. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that brings warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful.

Looking for a recipe that’s both traditional and flexible? This beef and vegetable soup recipe offers the best of British cooking with a homemade touch that’s sure to impress.

Ready your ladle and let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This beef and vegetable soup recipe is a standout for several reasons. Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring basic kitchen skills but yielding impressive results.

The slow-simmered beef becomes tender and juicy, infusing the broth with rich, meaty goodness. The vegetables add freshness, colour, and essential nutrients, making this a balanced meal in a bowl.

Secondly, it’s a flexible recipe — you can swap out or add your favourite vegetables, adjust the seasoning to suit your taste, or even double the batch for leftovers. It’s a wonderful way to use up seasonal produce, making it economical and sustainable.

Lastly, it’s perfect for all seasons. While it’s a winter warmer, the light broth and fresh veggies make it enjoyable year-round.

Plus, this recipe is a great starting point if you’re interested in exploring other hearty UK soups or vegetable-packed meals like those found in A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion.

Ingredients

• 500g stewing beef, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or beef dripping
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 sticks celery, sliced
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 small leek, cleaned and sliced
• 150g frozen peas
• 1.5 litres beef stock (preferably homemade or low salt)
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed saucepan or stockpot
• Wooden spoon
• Sharp knife
• Chopping board
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle
• Soup bowls for serving

Instructions

1. Heat the oil in the saucepan over medium heat. Once hot, add the beef cubes in batches, browning them on all sides. This step is essential to develop a rich flavour, so don’t rush it. Remove the browned beef and set aside.
2. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pan and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and burning.
3. Return the beef to the pan along with the carrots, celery, potatoes, and leek. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
4. Pour in the beef stock until everything is just covered. Add the bay leaves and thyme, then bring to a gentle boil.
5. Reduce the heat to low and cover the pan with a lid. Let the soup simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
6. About 10 minutes before the end of cooking, add the frozen peas and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Continue simmering until the peas are heated through.
7. Remove the bay leaves and discard. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley for a hint of brightness and colour.

Tips & Variations

“To deepen the flavour, try adding a splash of red wine during step 4 and allow it to reduce before adding the stock.”

If you want a thicker soup, stir in a tablespoon of flour or cornflour dissolved in a little cold water during the last 15 minutes of cooking.

Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what’s seasonal or in your fridge. Parsnips, turnips, or swede add lovely sweetness, while green beans or sweetcorn bring extra texture.

For a spicier twist, a pinch of chilli powder can add warmth without overpowering the classic taste.

If you prefer a slow cooker method, brown the beef and sauté onions first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This beef and vegetable soup is delightful on its own but pairs beautifully with warm crusty bread or a classic British buttered roll. A dollop of mustard or horseradish on the side can add a lovely kick.

For a more substantial meal, serve with a side salad or some steamed greens. If you’re interested in exploring more hearty yet healthy meals, check out our collection of Cheap Vegetarian Recipes For Families Everyone Will Love for inspiration.

Conclusion

This beef and vegetable soup recipe is a true testament to comforting British cuisine. It’s simple, wholesome, and truly satisfying, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead.

The combination of tender beef and fresh vegetables simmered in a fragrant broth ensures every bite is packed with flavour and nutrients.

Not only is this soup a great way to stay warm during colder months, but it also encourages healthy eating without compromising on taste. Whether you’re a soup novice or a seasoned cook, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

For those looking to branch out, explore other recipes like the Vegan Fall Soup Recipes To Warm Your Cozy Evenings or the Best Vegetarian Recipes No Dairy for Delicious Meals for more comforting ideas.

Happy cooking and stay cosy!

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