When it comes to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, keeping track of your calorie intake is important. One way to do this is by preparing homemade meals with fresh, wholesome ingredients. Vegetable beef soup is a delicious and hearty option for those looking to watch their calorie intake, as it is packed with nutritious vegetables and lean protein while being low in calories.

Here is a simple and delicious recipe for homemade vegetable beef soup that is not only filling and nutritious, but also easy on the waistline. This recipe makes about 6 servings, each containing approximately 220 calories.

Ingredients:
– 1 pound lean beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 carrots, sliced
– 4 celery stalks, sliced
– 1 bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
– 2 cups water
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups chopped spinach or kale
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:
1. In a large pot, brown the beef stew meat over medium-high heat until all sides are browned. Remove the meat from the pot and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté the onions and garlic until they are soft and fragrant.
3. Add the carrots, celery, and bell pepper to the pot and cook for a few minutes until they begin to soften.
4. Return the browned beef to the pot and add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, water, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
6. Add the chopped spinach or kale to the pot and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the greens are wilted and tender.
7. Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings if necessary.
8. Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

This homemade vegetable beef soup is not only low in calories, but it is also packed with essential nutrients from the various vegetables and lean protein from the beef. It is a perfect meal option for those trying to watch their calorie intake while still enjoying a hearty and satisfying dish. Plus, making this soup at home allows you to control the ingredients and avoid any unnecessary additives or preservatives that may be found in store-bought soups.

Next time you’re looking for a healthy and filling meal, consider whipping up a batch of this homemade vegetable beef soup. With all the flavors and nutrients it offers, it’s a perfect addition to your healthy eating plan.