Autumn Soup Recipe
Cook Time: 1 hour
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 6-8 servings (adjust as necessary)
Description
This Autumn Soup is a beloved family recipe that was passed down to me by my daughter from her mother-in-law, Merilyn. It’s an affordable dish that’s rich in flavor, comforting, and brimming with nutritional value. The ingredients are simple, yet they come together to create a warm, hearty meal perfect for any fall or winter day. The balance of vegetables, ground beef, and barley makes this soup both filling and satisfying. After receiving feedback from several reviewers about the barley being too abundant, Iβve reduced the barley amount in this updated version to create a more balanced consistency. This soup is not just easy to make but also ideal for those looking for a wholesome, budget-friendly meal.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 lb |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 |
| Water | 4 cups |
| Fresh carrots (sliced) | 1 |
| Celery (diced) | 1 stalk |
| Potato (diced) | 1 medium |
| Tomatoes (chopped) | 1 can (14.5 oz) |
| Barley (uncooked) | 1/4 cup |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Black pepper | 1 tsp |
| Kitchen Bouquet (optional) | 1 tsp |
| Bay leaves | 2 |
| Sweet basil (dried) | 1 tsp |
| Beef bouillon cube | 1 cube |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 258.5 kcal |
| Fat Content | 12 g |
| Saturated Fat Content | 4.6 g |
| Cholesterol Content | 51.5 mg |
| Sodium Content | 650.5 mg |
| Carbohydrate Content | 20.7 g |
| Fiber Content | 4.9 g |
| Sugar Content | 6.4 g |
| Protein Content | 17.5 g |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Ingredients:
Begin by gathering all your ingredients and chopping the vegetables. Dice the potato, chop the celery, onion, and carrots, and drain the canned tomatoes. If youβre using fresh tomatoes, chop them into small chunks. -
-
Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large kettle or pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until it’s fully cooked. Break up the meat as it cooks to ensure itβs evenly browned. Once cooked, drain any excess fat if needed. -
Add the Vegetables:
Add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and diced potato to the pot with the ground beef. Stir the mixture to combine, letting the vegetables soften slightly, about 3-5 minutes. -
Add the Liquid:
Pour in 4 cups of water and stir in the canned tomatoes (with juice). Bring the soup to a simmer over medium heat. -
Season the Soup:
Add in the salt, black pepper, Kitchen Bouquet (if using), bay leaves, sweet basil, and the beef bouillon cube. Stir everything to combine and dissolve the bouillon cube. -
Add the Barley:
Stir in the barley. It will help to thicken the soup and absorb the rich flavors as it cooks. Bring the soup back to a simmer and allow it to cook uncovered for about 45 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender, and the barley is cooked through. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent the barley from sticking to the bottom of the pot. -
Optional Slow Cooker Method:
For a hands-off option, transfer all the ingredients into a slow cooker after step 4 and cook on low for 8-9 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully and can be a convenient option for busy days. -
Taste and Adjust:
Taste the soup once it’s cooked and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add extra salt or pepper if desired. Remove the bay leaves before serving. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the hearty Autumn Soup into bowls. It pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty bread or crackers on the side. This soup is perfect for lunch or dinner, and it also keeps well for leftovers.
Tips for Making the Perfect Autumn Soup
- Adjust Vegetables: You can add or substitute other vegetables based on what you have available, such as parsnips, turnips, or even squash for an extra fall twist.
- Make It Spicier: If you like a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the soup.
- Storage: This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and you can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
Why This Autumn Soup Is So Great
This recipe is more than just a filling meal; itβs a way to enjoy the flavors of fall in every bite. The combination of beef, vegetables, and barley offers a perfect balance of protein, fiber, and carbs, making it a well-rounded and nourishing option. Plus, with its simple ingredients and ease of preparation, itβs a great dish to make when youβre on a budget or looking for something low-cost but satisfying.
Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a dish to share with friends and family, this Autumn Soup is sure to become a beloved staple in your meal rotation.
