Rainy day rescue: how to make a heartwarming hamburger vegetable soup in under an hour

Craving a hearty and comforting soup that’s packed with flavor and nutrition? Look no further than this step-by-step guide on how to make hamburger vegetable soup. This wholesome dish is not only incredibly delicious but also a budget-friendly way to feed your family a satisfying meal.

Gather Your Ingredients

To make this delectable soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Drain off any excess grease.

2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the onion, carrots, celery, and green bell pepper to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

3. Add the Beans and Corn: Stir in the black beans and corn.

4. Pour in the Crushed Tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer.

5. Add the Beef Broth and Seasonings: Gradually add the beef broth and stir in the chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper.

6. Bring to a Boil: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

7. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into serving bowls and enjoy while warm.

Tips for a Flavorful Soup

• Use a good quality ground beef: Opt for ground beef with a higher fat content, as it will add more flavor to the soup.
• Don’t skip the sautéing step: Sautéing the vegetables helps develop their flavor and add depth to the soup.
• Use a variety of vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to your soup, such as potatoes, zucchini, or peas.
• Season to taste: Taste the soup as you cook and adjust the seasonings accordingly.
• Let the soup simmer: Simmering for a longer period allows the flavors to meld and develop.

Variations

• Spicy Hamburger Vegetable Soup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for a kick of heat.
• Vegetarian Hamburger Vegetable Soup: Omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
• Slow Cooker Hamburger Vegetable Soup: Place all the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread or crackers for dipping.
• Top the soup with grated cheese, sour cream, or chopped fresh cilantro.
• Pair the soup with a crisp green salad for a complete meal.

Nutritional Value

Hamburger vegetable soup is a nutrient-packed dish that provides a good source of:

• Protein: The ground beef provides a significant amount of protein, essential for building and repairing tissues.
• Fiber: The vegetables, beans, and corn add dietary fiber, which helps promote digestive health and satiety.
• Vitamins and Minerals: The vegetables and crushed tomatoes contain an array of vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, C, and potassium.

Wrap-Up: A Soup for All Occasions

This hamburger vegetable soup is a versatile and comforting dish that can be enjoyed on any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a hearty meal to warm you up on a chilly day, this soup is sure to satisfy.

Frequently Discussed Topics

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef.

2. Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Yes, you can add any vegetables you like, such as potatoes, zucchini, peas, or spinach.

3. How long can I store the leftover soup?
The soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.