Ingredients:
- 2 lbs lean ground beef
- 1 white onion, peeled and diced
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper, more to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dry oregano, more to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dry basil, more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon seasoning salt
- 1 (1 1/2 ounce) envelope onion soup mix
- 6 cups water, more to desired consistency
- 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained
- 1 cup celery, sliced
- 1/4 cup celery leaves, coarsely chopped
- 1 cup fresh carrot, sliced
- 1 cup white potato, peeled and cut into small cubes
- Garlic salt, to taste
- Shredded parmesan cheese, to serve
- Sour cream, to serve
Directions:
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef and onion. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add ground black pepper, dry oregano, dry basil, seasoning salt, and onion soup mix to the browned beef and onion. Stir well.
- Pour in water, tomato sauce, and soy sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add diced tomatoes, corn, celery, celery leaves, carrots, and potatoes to the pot. Bring the soup back to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer uncovered until the potatoes and carrots are tender, about 30 minutes. Add more water if needed to achieve your desired consistency.
- Season the soup to taste with garlic salt.
- Serve the hearty hamburger soup hot, garnished with shredded parmesan cheese and a dollop of sour cream.
Enjoy your delicious and comforting Hearty Hamburger Soup! 😊
Here are some tips to make your Hearty Hamburger Soup even more delightful:
- Use Quality Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option. You can also mix in a combination of ground beef and ground pork for added flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: If possible, use fresh oregano and basil instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor. Add them towards the end of the cooking process to retain their freshness.
- Homemade Onion Soup Mix: Consider making your own onion soup mix using fresh ingredients for a more personalized touch. This allows you to control the sodium content and enhance the overall flavor.
- Enhance Umami: Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a tablespoon of tomato paste to enhance the umami flavor in the soup.
- Vary the Vegetables: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables based on your preferences. You can add zucchini, green beans, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
- Slow Cooking: If time allows, let the soup simmer on low heat for a longer time. This allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a richer and more delicious soup.
- Customize Spices: Adjust the spice levels to your liking. If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
- Fresh Garnishes: Top each serving with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro for a burst of freshness. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can also add a zesty kick.
- Cheese Options: Experiment with different types of cheese for topping. In addition to parmesan, try shredded cheddar or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
- Serve with Crusty Bread: Accompany your Hearty Hamburger Soup with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Remember, cooking is a personal experience, so feel free to adjust the recipe to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy your delightful Hearty Hamburger Soup!
Popular Questions and Answers:
Here are some potential questions and answers that might arise regarding the Easy Hearty Hamburger Soup Recipe:
Q: Can I freeze Hearty Hamburger Soup for later?
A: Yes, Hearty Hamburger Soup freezes well. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. Leave some space at the top of the container to account for expansion. When reheating, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight and warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Q: Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. The choice of meat won’t significantly alter the overall flavor, and it’s a great way to customize the soup to your dietary preferences.
Q: How can I make this soup spicier?
A: To add more heat to the Hearty Hamburger Soup, consider incorporating a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper. Adjust the amount according to your spice preference, and taste as you go to avoid making it too hot.
Q: Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?
A: Yes, you can create a vegetarian version by omitting the ground beef and using vegetable broth instead of water. Increase the variety of vegetables or add plant-based protein sources like lentils or chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian alternative.
Q: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
A: Certainly! To adapt the Hearty Hamburger Soup for a slow cooker, brown the ground beef and onions separately, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the vegetables are tender.
Q: What other toppings can I add besides parmesan and sour cream?
A: Get creative with toppings! Try shredded cheddar, a dollop of Greek yogurt, chopped green onions, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added flavor and freshness.
Q: How long can I store leftovers in the refrigerator?
A: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days in a sealed container. Make sure to reheat thoroughly before serving.
Q: Can I adjust the thickness of the soup?
A: Yes, you can easily adjust the thickness of the soup by adding more water or broth to achieve your desired consistency. Adjust the seasoning accordingly after making any additions.
Achieving the perfect Hearty Hamburger Soup involves attention to detail and some culinary secrets. Here are some tips to help you make a truly exceptional soup:
Quality Beef: Choose high-quality, lean ground beef for a rich and hearty flavor. If possible, visit a trusted butcher for the best meat.
Sear the Meat: When browning the ground beef and onions, aim to sear the meat well. This caramelization adds depth and complexity to the overall flavor of the soup.
Aromatics First: Sauté the onions until they are translucent before adding the ground beef. This allows the onions to release their sweetness and enhances the overall aroma of the soup.
Fresh Herbs: If available, use fresh oregano and basil instead of dried herbs. Add them towards the end of the cooking process to maintain their vibrant flavors.
Homemade Spice Mix: Create your own onion soup mix using fresh ingredients. This allows you to control the flavor profile and reduce the amount of sodium in your soup.
Umami Boost: Enhance the umami flavor by adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce along with the soy sauce. This will add depth and savory richness to the soup.
Layered Flavors: Add ingredients in stages, allowing each to cook and impart its flavor before adding the next. This layering technique builds complexity in the taste.
Slow Simmering: Allow the soup to simmer on low heat for an extended period. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a more flavorful and cohesive soup.
Fresh Vegetables: Whenever possible, use fresh vegetables. The quality of the vegetables can significantly impact the overall taste of the soup.
Balanced Seasoning: Taste the soup as it cooks and adjust the seasoning gradually. Be mindful of the salt content, especially if using commercial onion soup mix, and opt for garlic salt for an extra layer of flavor.
Creative Garnishes: Elevate the soup by experimenting with creative garnishes. Consider fresh parsley, a dollop of Greek yogurt, or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Serve with Warm Bread: Accompany the Hearty Hamburger Soup with warm, crusty bread or dinner rolls. The combination of the soup and bread can make the meal even more satisfying.
Remember, cooking is an art, and these tips are meant to inspire creativity in the kitchen. Feel free to adapt and modify the recipe to suit your taste preferences and make it uniquely yours!