Beef Noodle Soup

Beef Noodle Soup is a hearty, comforting dish with tender beef, flavorful broth, and soft noodles. It’s perfect for a cozy meal on a chilly day or when you need something satisfying and nourishing.

Here’s a simple recipe for Beef Noodle Soup:

Beef Noodle Soup

Ingredients:

• Beef stew meat (such as chuck roast or brisket) – 1 lb (450g), cut into 1-inch cubes
• Olive oil – 1 tbsp
• Onion – 1 medium, diced
• Carrots – 2 large, peeled and sliced
• Celery – 2 stalks, chopped
• Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
• Beef broth – 6 cups (1.5L), low-sodium preferred
• Water – 2 cups (480ml)
• Soy sauce – 2 tbsp (optional for extra umami flavor)
• Bay leaves – 2
• Dried thyme – 1 tsp
• Salt – to taste
• Black pepper – to taste
• Egg noodles – 2 cups (or your preferred pasta)
• Fresh parsley – for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Brown the Beef:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef stew meat and brown on all sides (about 5-7 minutes). This step adds flavor to the soup, so don’t skip it!
3. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:

1. In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

3. Add the Broth and Seasonings:

1. Return the beef to the pot.
2. Add the beef broth, water, soy sauce (if using), bay leaves, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the beef is tender and fully cooked.

4. Cook the Noodles:

1. Add the egg noodles to the soup and cook according to the package instructions, usually 7-10 minutes, until tender. Stir occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking to the bottom.

5. Adjust Seasoning:

1. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or soy sauce if needed.

6. Serve:

1. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
2. Serve hot with crusty bread or rolls for a complete meal.

Tips:

• Broth Variations: If you prefer a richer broth, you can use beef bone broth instead of regular beef broth for added flavor and nutrition.
• Noodle Options: You can also use rice noodles, egg noodles, or bow-tie pasta if you don’t have egg noodles on hand.
• Make Ahead: The soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors continue to meld as it sits! You may need to add a bit more broth or water when reheating.
• Freezing: Beef Noodle Soup freezes well. Just store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat it gently on the stove.

This Beef Noodle Soup is a warm, filling meal that’s packed with tender beef, vegetables, and comforting noodles. It’s perfect for when you need something both satisfying and nourishing!