There’s something so satisfying about opening a jar of homemade vegetable beef soup in the middle of winter. The aroma that fills the kitchen is enough to warm your soul, and the taste of the flavorful vegetables and tender beef is a comforting and delicious reminder of all the hard work you put into canning your own soup.
Canning your own vegetable beef soup is a great way to enjoy the flavors of fresh, in-season produce all year long. It’s also a great way to save money and reduce waste by using up any leftover vegetables from your garden or farmer’s market haul. Plus, there’s something deeply satisfying about preserving your own food and knowing exactly what went into it.
Below is a simple and delicious recipe for vegetable beef soup that you can can at home. This recipe is versatile, so feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasoning to your taste.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 3 carrots, sliced
– 3 celery stalks, diced
– 2 cups diced tomatoes
– 6 cups beef broth
– 2 cups water
– 2 cups green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups corn kernels
– 2 cups diced potatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches and brown on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and sauté until translucent.
3. Add the carrots and celery and cook for a few minutes until slightly softened.
4. Return the beef to the pot and add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 1-2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
5. Add the green beans, corn, potatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
6. While the soup is simmering, prepare your canning equipment and sterilize your jars and lids.
7. Ladle the hot soup into the jars, leaving 1 inch of headspace. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth, then place the lids and screw on the bands until fingertip-tight.
8. Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 1 hour, then carefully remove and let them cool completely before storing in a cool, dark place.
When you’re ready to enjoy your homemade vegetable beef soup, simply open a jar, heat it up, and savor every spoonful. Not only is it a convenient and delicious meal, but it’s also a great way to bring a little taste of summer into the darker months of the year. So roll up your sleeves, grab your largest pot, and start canning your own delicious vegetable beef soup today. Your taste buds will thank you!