Minestrone, traditionally a vegetable-based soup, takes on a richer, more satisfying character with the addition of beef. This recipe delivers a hearty and flavorful bowl perfect for a chilly evening or a comforting lunch. We'll explore variations and answer common questions to ensure you create the perfect beef minestrone for your palate.
What Makes This Beef Minestrone Recipe Unique?
This recipe distinguishes itself by focusing on a deep, rich beef broth as the base, building layers of flavor with carefully selected vegetables and herbs. We’ll use both slow-cooked beef for maximum tenderness and fresh vegetables for vibrant color and texture. The result is a soup that's both deeply satisfying and brimming with fresh, seasonal goodness.
Ingredients:
-
For the Beef Broth:
- 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large onion, roughly chopped
- 2 carrots, roughly chopped
- 2 celery stalks, roughly chopped
- 8 cups water
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
-
For the Soup:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup chopped zucchini
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup small pasta (ditalini, elbow macaroni, or small shells)
- 1 cup chopped kale or spinach
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Beef Broth: In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the beef stew meat, chopped onion, carrots, celery, water, bay leaves, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for at least 2 hours, or until the beef is very tender. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface during simmering.
- Strain the Broth: Remove the beef from the broth and set aside. Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve, discarding the solids. Shred the beef and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic, carrots, and celery and cook for another 5 minutes, until slightly tender.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the zucchini, diced tomatoes, cannellini beans, and pasta. Pour in the strained beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked through.
- Stir in Greens and Beef: Add the shredded beef and kale or spinach. Simmer for another 5 minutes, until the greens are wilted.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.
What kind of beef is best for beef minestrone soup?
For the richest flavor and most tender result, beef stew meat is ideal. Its higher fat content contributes to a richer broth, and the long simmering time renders it incredibly tender. You could also use chuck roast, but it might require a longer simmering time.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Follow steps 1 and 2 as usual, but then transfer the strained broth, sautéed vegetables, beans, and pasta to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the pasta is cooked through. Add the shredded beef and greens during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
What vegetables can I add or substitute?
This recipe is highly adaptable! Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as potatoes, green beans, or butternut squash. If you don't have kale or spinach, other leafy greens like chard or collard greens work well.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! Beef minestrone soup tastes even better the next day. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Is there a way to make this soup vegetarian?
While this recipe features beef, a delicious vegetarian version can be created by omitting the beef entirely and using vegetable broth as the base. You could add mushrooms, lentils, or other hearty vegetables to enhance the vegetarian version’s richness and texture.
This comprehensive recipe guide provides a delicious and adaptable beef minestrone soup. Enjoy experimenting with different vegetables and seasonings to create your own perfect bowl!
