Frequently Asked Questions
What is Rustic Beef and Garden Vegetable Soup?
It is a hearty, nutritious, and comforting soup that combines savory ground beef with a medley of vibrant vegetables like corn, peas, and carrots.
How many calories are in one serving of this soup?
There are approximately 300 calories per serving.
How much protein does this soup provide?
This soup is high in protein, providing 25 grams per serving.
What is the fat content of this recipe?
Each serving contains approximately 5.8 grams of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are 25 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
What type of meat is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 pound of ground beef.
Can I use frozen vegetables for this soup?
Yes, the recipe specifically uses 2 cups of frozen mixed vegetables for convenience and speed.
How long does it take to cook the soup?
After browning the meat and adding ingredients, the soup simmers for about 10 minutes.
What type of pot should I use?
A large Dutch oven is recommended for this one-pot meal.
Do I need to drain the fat from the ground beef?
Yes, if there is excess fat after browning the beef, it should be drained before adding the liquid ingredients.
What aromatics are used in the soup base?
The base is made by sautรฉing one large chopped onion and one minced garlic clove in olive oil.
What type of beans are included in the recipe?
The recipe uses one 15-ounce can of kidney beans, rinsed and drained.
Does the recipe use chicken or beef broth?
It uses both; one 14-ounce can of chicken broth and one 14-ounce can of beef broth for a complex flavor.
Why is tomato paste added to the soup?
Tomato paste is added to thicken the broth and provide a rich, savory tomato base.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can substitute fresh diced tomatoes, though the recipe calls for one 14-ounce can of diced tomatoes with juice.
How much water is added to the soup?
The recipe calls for 2 cups of water to be mixed with the broths.
What seasoning is used to flavor the soup?
One teaspoon of Italian seasoning is used to give the soup its herb-forward flavor profile.
How long should I sautรฉ the onions?
The onions should be sautรฉed for about 3 to 4 minutes until they become translucent.
How long does it take to brown the ground beef?
Browning the ground beef typically takes between 7 and 10 minutes.
Is this a one-pot meal?
Yes, everything is cooked in a single Dutch oven, making cleanup easy.
What is a recommended garnish for this soup?
The recipe suggests garnishing with freshly grated parmesan cheese.
What side dish goes well with this beef soup?
It is best served with crusty bread for dipping into the savory broth.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can brown the beef and onions first, then combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Is this soup healthy?
Yes, it is tagged as healthy and features a variety of protein-packed beans and nutritious vegetables.
Can I substitute the kidney beans with another type?
Yes, cannellini beans or black beans would work well as a substitute in this recipe.
How many total ingredients are required?
There are 12 main ingredients in this recipe.
Is this soup kid-friendly?
Yes, its mild, savory flavors and familiar vegetables make it a great family-friendly meal.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Should the soup be covered while simmering?
The instructions suggest letting the soup simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.