Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this 54th Street Steak Soup recipe! This hearty and delicious soup is perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner. It's packed with tender steak, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, savory broth – everything you need for a satisfying and healthy meal. This easy recipe is perfect for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs looking for a delicious, homemade twist on a classic.
Ingredients:
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups beef broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 cup potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup frozen peas
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Browning the Steak
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and cook until browned on all sides. This step helps develop a richer flavor in your soup. Remove the steak from the pot and set aside.
Step 2: Sautéing the Vegetables
Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Simmering the Soup
Return the browned beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes (undrained), thyme, rosemary, black pepper, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1.5 hours, or until the beef is very tender. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful it becomes!
Step 4: Adding Potatoes and Peas
After 1.5 hours, add the cubed potatoes to the soup. Continue to simmer for another 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Stir in the frozen peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Step 5: Seasoning and Serving
Remove the bay leaf before serving. Season the soup with salt to taste. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
Cooking Tips for the Best Steak Soup:
- For a richer flavor, use bone-in beef stew meat.
- Don't overcrowd the pot when browning the beef; work in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, such as mushrooms, green beans, or corn.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot before serving.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Spicy Steak Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Steak Soup: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or heavy cream before serving for a richer, creamier texture.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the beef with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, butternut squash, or lentils for a delicious vegetarian alternative.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
This 54th Street Steak Soup recipe is a simple yet satisfying dish perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this quick dinner idea, a healthy meal, and one of the best recipes for a comforting and flavorful experience. It’s a delicious addition to your collection of easy recipes and homemade cooking endeavors.