Hamburger Soup Recipe
Hamburger soup recipe is the perfect comfort food, especially on a chilly day when you’re craving something warm and hearty. This recipe is packed with ground beef, vegetables, and a flavorful broth that makes it both nutritious and delicious. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste, and it’s easy to make, even for beginners. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something to serve at a family gathering, hamburger soup is a winner.
A Brief History of Hamburger Soup Recipe:
The origins of hamburger soup are not well-documented, but it is believed to have evolved from the American tradition of hearty, meat-based soups. Ground beef, or hamburger meat, became a popular ingredient in the early 20th century due to its affordability and versatility. Over time, home cooks began incorporating it into various dishes, including soups. Hamburger soup likely emerged as a way to stretch ingredients and create a filling meal that could feed a family. Today, it’s a beloved dish in many households, offering a comforting and satisfying taste of home.
Hamburger Soup Recipe
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 large potato, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz/411g) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 cups (950ml) beef broth
- 1 cup (240ml) water
- 1 can (15 oz/425g) tomato sauce
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup (150g) frozen peas or corn (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Start by preparing all your ingredients. Chop the onion, carrots, celery, and potato. Mince the garlic. Set these aside for easy access during cooking.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon or spatula until it’s browned all over. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, use a slotted spoon to transfer the beef to a plate, leaving the fat in the pot.
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
- Return the browned ground beef to the pot. Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), beef broth, water, tomato sauce, diced potato, dried basil, dried oregano, and bay leaf. Stir everything together.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for 25-30 minutes. Stir occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld and the vegetables to become tender.
- If you’re adding frozen peas or corn, stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking. This will allow them to heat through without becoming mushy.
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy it hot with a side of crusty bread.
Video
Similar Recipes:
– Beef and Barley Soup: A hearty soup featuring tender chunks of beef, barley, and vegetables.
– Stuffed Pepper Soup: All the flavors of stuffed peppers in a comforting soup, with ground beef, bell peppers, and rice.
– Vegetable Beef Soup: A nutritious and filling soup made with chunks of beef, a variety of vegetables, and a savory broth.
– Taco Soup: A flavorful and spicy soup made with ground beef, beans, corn, and taco seasonings, topped with your favorite taco toppings.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hamburger Soup Recipe:
1. Can I make hamburger soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, brown the beef first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
2. Can I freeze hamburger soup?
Absolutely! Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
3. What can I serve with hamburger soup?
Crusty bread, cornbread, or a simple side salad pair well with hamburger soup.
4. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a leaner alternative and works well in this recipe.
5. How do I thicken my hamburger soup?
You can thicken the soup by adding a slurry of 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
6. Is hamburger soup gluten-free?
The basic recipe is gluten-free. Just ensure that the beef broth and other canned ingredients are certified gluten-free.
7. Can I add pasta to hamburger soup?
Yes, you can add small pasta like elbow macaroni or ditalini during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Add extra broth if needed.
8. How can I make this soup spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño when sautéing the vegetables for a bit of heat.
9. What other vegetables can I add?
Zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans can be added for more variety.
10. How long does hamburger soup last in the fridge?
Hamburger soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
Conclusion:
Hamburger soup is a versatile and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, it’s a dish that even beginner cooks can master. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a cozy meal, hamburger soup is sure to please.
YouTube Video Credits:
TheCooknShare
Leave a Reply